Death
Praying For All Souls
On Wednesday, the Catholic church celebrated All Souls Day – a day when people remember and pray for their loved ones who have died. Today the cathedral had a memorial prayer service and choir concert that I took my mom to. Each family was invited to light a candle representing those who have passed away. […]
Praying With the Saints
Today I went to the caregivers group that I have been attending. When I first met the people there, one gentleman told us that he was caring for his wife who had a stroke that left her in a bad way. He said he was used to her taking care of him and now it […]
Life of Laughter
When I worked for a retail store many, many years ago, we were like a family. As time went on, people went many different directions, but a large number of people stayed in touch. One good friend in particular seems to be connected to just about everyone. She contacted me the other day and told me […]
Singing With the Angels
My mom’s brother was an incredible singer – especially in his youth. When he was about 12 years old, he won multiple competitions leading him to sing a solo at the Chicagoland Music Festival in Soldier’s Field in front of a crowd of about 61,000. He actually won first place that year. Metropolitan Opera singer […]
Bringing Peace
When my mom was in the hospital, a priest from the church offered to come and give her the Anointing of the Sick. It was so hectic there and my mom was so exhausted that she didn’t want him to come. Even when she came home, it has been busy with doctor and home care appointments. […]
Be Joyful
Today I read an article that described what a difference a smile can make. It brings joy to the one smiling and to those who encounter that person. My mom told me a long time ago, “Smile until 10:00 am and you will smile all day long.” I thought about that and realized how true it […]
Memorial Day 16
Today is Memorial Day. While I did not go and participate in any memorials, I did read and hear many stories of those who have lost their lives in the military. There were stories by family members and friends, all heart felt and courageous. Each one different, yet each one very much the same. I […]
Remembering a Young Soul
As I was going through social media today, I realized it is the anniversary of the unexpected death of a young man who I got to know in youth ministry. I took some time and thought about the joy and laughter he brought to the youth and adults alike as well as a deep faith […]
Faith Through Grief
One of the first people I met when I moved a year and a half ago was an elderly man who got a little white poodle. We would meet when I walked my dog. My parents told me that he had stage 4 cancer and he was not receiving any more treatments. I was in […]
Beautiful Ending
My mom and I have been reading a book based on the life and writings of St. Therese of Lisieux. Today my mom read about her death. It was described that her breathing became weak and labored. She looked at the crucifix and said, “My God, I love you.” Those with her thought that was […]
Still Finding God 