As I’m trying to maintain my prayer life especially during Lent, I read a quote today that inspired me:
“Pray with great confidence, with confidence based on the goodness and infinite generosity of God and upon the promises of Jesus Christ. God is a spring of living water which flows unceasingly into the hearts of those who pray.”
— St. Louis De Montfort
I Found God today in a reminder of the power of prayer.
It’s fun trying to find different ways to celebrate holidays. I read this morning that since Ireland is still locked down, the St. Patrick’s day festivities would all be virtual. So I figured we should be able to find some worthwhile entertainment. When we talked about it at dinner, my mom said she had Riverdance on DVD. I looked all over for it, but couldn’t find it. So, I got on YouTube. There were of course many options. We landed on the Riverdance performance in New York City during the same time that my mom saw the live show. I had never actually seen it. I was amazed and in awe at the speed and precision of their tapping feet. The vocalists were stunning and the musicians played instruments I had never seen before. It was a captivating show with unique talents and sounds that were beautiful.
I Found God today in the talent of musicians and dancers.
Due to COVID-19, it has been months since we have had visitors. But things are different now that my parents are fully vaccinated as are some of their friends. Today, my mom’s piano playing friend came over just as she used to every week. It was wonderful to see her and visit without facemasks so everyone could be heard and understood. Even more joyous was the sound of the 2 pianos playing as they struck up their old habit. Then we all sat down for lunch together. This visit was the first of many that we intend to have as more friends and family become vaccinated. We are so looking forward to being in relationship with people once again.
I Found God today in a visit and joyful piano music.
Today I came across a very touching video about a mysterious piano player. A young man who lived in an apartment suddenly started hearing a new neighbor play the piano. They corresponded by notes a couple of times. The young man got out his keyboard and starting playing as well. Through their note writing, they began to play duets through the wall. Then, they decided to end the mystery and meet in person. The result was unexpected and beautiful. I don’t want to spoil what happens as I think the video is going to help you find God much better than my writing, so take a look.
I Found God today in a beautiful story of a mysterious piano player.
Tonight I decided to go back and copy some of my past posts. First of all, I can’t believe I have been writing just about every night for 8 years – including the 2 years I wrote for the church I worked for which is how this whole thing started. There were plenty of memories – some beautiful, some sad, some made me laugh, some I didn’t even remember. Mostly, looking back humbled me. It became clear and obvious to me how God has continuously cared for me, my family, and loved ones even through difficult trials. I saw His love on every page – in every day. I guess that’s why I decided to write about Him in the first place. I was also made aware of the personal growth in my life – in my faith, my knowledge, wisdom, courage, patience, and mostly in my gratitude. It was a wonderful exercise that did my heart well.
I Found God today in His presence in every day.
Today I got a call from a friend. We talked about all kinds of things for quite a while. At one point she spent a few minutes just encouraging me. It wasn’t a formal prayer, but I felt God speaking to me through her as my eyes welled and heart filled. She talked about how God calls each of us to a specific task at different times in our lives. That task will likely be difficult and require sacrifice, but God will remain faithful as we remain faithful. I was humbled by her words and recharged at the same time. I was grateful for her call, her words, her friendship, and her thoughtfulness. I was especially grateful that she shared her faith with me.
I Found God today in encouragement from a friend.
Since today is Friday, we decided to pray the Stations of the Cross. We found a video that guided you through the Stations in the Holy Land. The participants were from all around the world and from several different religious orders. My dad made the comment that even though there were so many different people, we all still look the same – we’re all still the same. I thought that was a beautiful observation and how amazing it would be if everyone had that insight.
I Found God today in my dad’s observation that we are all the same.
My sister shared a link with us for a concert by the Denver Brass who she had seen before. We tuned into the live performance tonight and brought up the program online to follow along. Being close to St Patrick’s day, the brass group was accompanied by Colorado Celtic bagpipes and drums. My parents recognized many of the tunes from years back. As the host introduced a rendition of Amazing Grace, she shared her favorite verse which was especially fitting this year:
“Through many dangers, toils and snares,
I have already come;
’Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.”
The concert ended with the traditional Irish blessing that my parents knew almost by heart:
May the road rise up to meet you.
May the wind always be at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
and rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
It was a beautiful concert full of music, memories, and blessings.
I Found God today in music, memories, and blessings.
Today I listened to much of a Conference on dementia to see if I could pick up some more information and tips as my parents and I make our way through this period. One of the speakers worked at a memory care facility and talked about the importance of humor – keeping your sense of humor and bringing a sense of humor into situations. She shared funny cartoons and such. We “faked laugh” because it’s good for your brain to relieve stress. It only took a chuckle for it to turn into real laughter. There was a joke shared that I thought was hysterical:
Three older men are undergoing a memory test at the doctor’s office. The Doctor asks, “What is three times three?” The first man answers, “274.” The second man answers, “Tuesday.” The third man answers, “Nine.” The doctor pleasantly surprised at the third man’s correct response, inquires, “Great! How did you get that answer?” “Simple. Just subtract 274 from Tuesday.
It was a good reminder not to take things too seriously and to replace worry that robs you of enjoying the moment.
I Found God today in a reminder of the importance of humor.
Every night after dinner, my parents and I find something to do to stay busy and awake until bedtime. Tonight we got out the Wii. We took it out a couple weeks ago for the first time in almost a year. We chose bowling as that’s a fun game we can all play together. It took a while to figure it all out again and we laughed when someone threw the ball backwards and all the little Mii people jumped up and spun around. My mom and I ended up getting our highest score ever. That was an unexpected surprise. It was a lot of fun and I’m sure it was good for us all on many levels.
I Found God today enjoying playing the Wii.
Still Finding God 