At Home with Priscilla

Every success has its own story

2010-07-04T15:51:00.000-07:00

Dreamers are people who have higher goals and aspirations. Every dream starts from scratch; it always entails a thousand miles journey through the years. It demands patience and endurance. No matter what is ahead; nothing can stop a dreamer from dreaming some more. They say it is unhealthy to start day dreaming; but when we start day dreaming with a great aspiration and spend much effort to make that dream come true, I would say , it is normal as long as we do not hurt anybody.

Prayers are basic to those who aspire for greatness. No human effort can give us the drive to pursue except one that comes from our core energy- one that comes from the recesses of the heart. The drive or the force can allow the adrenaline to work double time. In dreaming, we put our mind set on a goal and we aspire for something that can appraise our self-esteem. Despite difficulties or trials, only the dreamers endure to the end because there is an inner drive that focuses a dreamer to his goal. What we dream is who we become. Why not, instead aim for bigger goals rather than the ordinary ones. If we fail, we have at least reach a portion of our higher goal. There is nothing to worry about. This world is created freely for all dreamers to dream impossible dreams. This makes this world a better place to live.

Any person who succeeds has his own story to tell. We do not succeed alone. There are always people who make a difference in our lives as we journey to the path of success. Just as there are people who inspire, there are a lot of people who discourage us from pursuing our goals. However, the choice is ours alone and no one else's. If there are people who have not succeeded is because they listen to what people say, not the inner voice of self that demands determination. Regret comes after a long journey of discouragement. A dreamer never says no to difficulties and never allow trials to hinder his path. Instead, He takes hold of his map and continue amidst adversities and trials. Dreamers many times fail but stand up again and continue the journey. We never say, I give up! We endure and we know how to take numerous risks.

I wonder how I learn to endure life's adversities. Prayer has always guided me through the highways and rough times. what is most important now is: I have fought a good fight; I endured those long trying years. These remaining years I thank the Lord for allowing me to pass the rough times of growing up. Growing up means finding a personal God who keeps me on the right track and reminds me to stay focus to a direction God has instilled within me through the years. I remain grateful for those trying times.

Success is not what you have achieved in life, but it is the spirit of happiness that results from the journey of a lifetime. Today, we enjoy the fruits of our labor and we realize that God has always been with us through the years of labor and pain. God continues His creation within a dreamer's heart. A dreamer continues to make a big differnce.

My Mother and My Conscience

2009-07-11T05:56:00.000-07:00

There is only one thing in my life I can't ever do,
that is, to hurt my mom's feelings. I wonder why.

I had witnessed her sacrifices and her sleepless nights
as I was growing up. Her image of self-giving was pretty
obvious, as common as her existence. Her purpose of living
seemed to be engraved within the recesses of her heart -
to raise good children, with firm faith and devotion.

Every day was a constant reminder of her witnessing,
to live a life was a sense of sacrifice for the sake of her own family.
Although she didn't say the word but her actions spoke firmly
like thunder that penetrated the core of a child's conscience.
I could not stand to see her sacrifice some more with my own
childhood delinquencies or allowed her to grieve for my mischiefs.

This sentiment became a conscience formed through my growing
years; as rule of conduct to help me be the person I could be
I tried my best to avoid bad influences and mischiefs to appease
the heart of a mom who put her entire life in great sacrifice to raise
a family with sincerity. She wasn't present at all times but
she remained hidden within as a guiding lamp to allow us to think
twice when decisions were badly needed.
She lived forever within us despite her absence.
Her examples were shields and armours in times of trials.

My mom passed away in her early years.
I was young then and insecure.
I never knew how to live and how to survive.
Her lifetime sacrifices remained
imprinted in our hearts.
That mattered so much.

As I say today,
She was the reason behind who I turned out to be
And she was with me to endure those trying times.

2009-02-01T06:32:00.000-08:00

The Power of the Word

In the beginning was the Word
The Word was with God and
The Word was God (Jn 1:1).

We become who we are as foretold by persons who simply uttered the words; those precious words that helped open the pandora box of a life's destiny.

If we are attentive today and we try to ponder what we have become at this moment,
We can never deny the fact that we have become who we are because of the Word deeply
expressed by someone who wants us to succeed in life.

The Word was a mantra. We say the Word and its power like a magnet can work wonders.

Looking back, I cannot imagine the numerous changes that have taken place in my life .
I am not talking about physical changes, but the whole scenario of living. It is like a dream
to see the many changes and here I am, the same person who has been a recipient of the magic and the power of the Word uttered by persons dear to me.

I was seven years old when I was hit by a car while crossing the street. I survived the accident but my left ankle was partly damaged that I had to walk with crutches for the next three months. I stopped going to school because I needed to recover from the said accident. I did not know what hope was all about. Much more, I did not even know if I had another chance to walk in a normal way again.

My mom was pounding heavens with her prayers. She believed in Miracles and believed that she could witness it. My mom was making compromises with God - Whatever it was, I would never know. It was between God and Her.

There were times I uttered words that could have dismayed my mom. I simply said that I thought I would not continue to go to School because I would be walking with crutches, like a cripple and children would be laughing behind my back. My mom kept her Words within her heart.

This was the time an elderly lady said with emphatic words that I would be the luckiest child in the family. She was talking to my hopeful dad. She said that someday her words would be true. I listened with intent ears and I believed her.

Three months later, I learned to walk again. Learning to walk took a miracle, one step at a time.

The mantra of the Words, uttered and thought within the hearts of people who cared, took its effects in that first step. Finally, the journey of life mattered so much that day. It was the first step that was the hardest. The rest of the steps made all the difference.

What has become of me after that first step? I am shy to say. All that matters now is one big difference. I can walk again. Since then, I have walked in a normal way, like any other person with hopes and aspirations. Many years had gone by and yet the experience remains fresh and vivid in my mind. Counting those years, I have walked millions of miles around the globe and I have seen so many historical events in my lifetime.

I do believed that God intended to put special people to utter those precious Words in a right time and on a right place. With God on our side, miracles can take place because He supplies the Word to say. I thank God and I thank everyone who have been instrumental to forecast the word. And that makes the Miracle.

There is power in the Word. Its mantra lingers forever.
[Franz]

2009-01-29T06:24:00.000-08:00

Waking Up Early

An early bird catches the worm first.

Time and again, I often wonder why waking up early is inherent
to my nature.

At exactly 6 am, every morning, I am wide awake regardless
whether I sleep early or later. I wonder because even if I wish
to extend my sleep I cannot. The innate clock tells its toll.
I am set for the day and ready to face what lies ahead.
There is no leisure time for a lazy bone.

I remember with vivid memory: As a child, I was always forced
to wake up as early as 5:30 am to do some chores at home.
My father would never tolerate any of his children to stay longer
on bed before the sun rose. I always retaliated.

There were times that I cried and complained. Nothing was heard
except that I had to wake up early and did the chores I was assigned
to do even if it was contrary to my intended schedule. The rest of
the siblings had their own responsibilities to fulfill and I believed
they, too, had the same sentiments as I had. However, with heavy
hearts, we were compelled to accomplish whatever responsibilities
assigned to us in order to make mom and dad happy. I never knew
if they were pleased at all.

As a family, we had accomplished so much in a whole day.
My mom would always attest that she would not have any problems
with washing and ironing clothes, nor with cooking and setting table
for lunch or dinner, nor with many other chores to be done at home
as many mothers would complain. All the siblings were the working
force of the house. Household help was not needed at all. Everything
was done by the children. We were always together doing endless
chores at home. Beyond any doubt, we were always proud of our
daily accomplishments. We had so much fun and laughter
despite the presence of some hardships and innuendos of retaliations
or complaints. We had had a whole family, working together.
Having many children was a treasure as my father would
always brag to his friends.

We never realized its value until many years later.

Some people may call it, child-labor or others may mention,
abuse of parental authority, but I would say those years were
precious moments of bonding and formation.

Young siblings were trained to face the future, even if sometimes
the road ahead could be rough and tough.

Sometimes I often wonder how come I have a high capacity for
tolerance. I looked back and I realized that I had a good training
here. Right now, I feel very grateful and am very fortunate.
Otherwise, I would have been a different person.
I have the capacity to work hard and the vital energy to cope up
with any situation. Where did I get them? I just wonder.

Reminiscing back, I say today, thanks to those years of waking up
early and trying to find the food first as an early bird.

Now, here is a whole lifetime ahead. Beyond doubt, I say I am ready.
I can say this, time and again, I have been taught to look beyond life.

The day starts with waking up early and facing the sun ahead.

Did the early bird really capture worm first?
I presume, the older mother bird retains the answer.

[F. P. Tam]

2009-01-10T07:29:00.000-08:00

DAILY ACCEPTANCE PRAYER

I accept myself completely.
I accept my strengths and my weaknesses,
my gifts and my shortcomings,
my good points and my faults.

I accept myself completely as a human being.
I accept that I am here to learn and grow, and
I accept that I am learning and growing.
I accept the personality I've developed, and
I accept my power to heal and change.

I accept myself without condition or reservation.
I accept that the core of my being is goodness and
that my essence is love, and
I accept that I sometimes forget that.

I accept myself completely, and in this acceptance
I find an ever-deepening inner strength.
From this place of strength, I accept my life fully and
I open to the lessons it offers me today.

I accept that within my mind are both fear and love, and
I accept my power to choose which I will experience as real.
I recognize that I experience only the results of my own choices.

I accept the times that I choose fear
as part of my learning and healing process, and
I accept that I have the potential and power
in any moment to choose love instead.

I accept mistakes as a part of growth,
so I am always willing to forgive myself and
give myself another chance.

I accept that my life is the expression of my thought, and
I commit myself to aligning my thoughts
more and more each day with the Thought of Love.
I accept that I am an expression of this Love.
Love's hands and voice and heart on earth.

I accept my own life as a blessing and a gift.
My heart is open to receive, and I am deeply grateful.
May I always share the gifts that I receive
fully, freely, and with joy.

(Unknown)

My New Coat, God

2008-11-22T12:10:00.000-08:00

I have a new coat, it was designed by God and given to me by Jesus Christ.
All I had to do to receive this coat was to believe in God's only Son.

I find it fits me perfectly unless I allow myself to become puffed up with foolish pride,
then it's too tight. If I walk with my head high, trying to be above those about, then it is too short. But if I walk humbly as I should before God, it fits me just right.

How is the coat made?

The shoulders are wide and roomy so that I can help my fellow man carry his burdens.

The collar is made of God's mercy, yes, the mercy of God's promises.
First that I may become his child and second, that I will one day dwell with Him in that home prepared for His saints.

The cuffs are narrow, so that there is no room to tuck away grievance and hard feelings toward my neighbors.

The pockets are oversized, One is for the love of God; the other is to hold my love for my fellowman and all humanity.

There are three buttons on my coat, which stands for faith, hope and charity. I check on them often so that none becomes loose or lost.

The lining is made of God's forgiveness, which I need so often that I want it next to me at all times.

The belt is made of God's love that encircles me everyday.

The material is thick enough to protect me when the storms of life come my way, but not too thick that I will not be able to feel the presence of the Holy Spirit who guides me.

There are many threads in my new coat, but not one thread of doubt that God's promises are true,

Do you wonder about the color of my coat? Why, it's the color of Jesus' eyes that must sparkle when a lost soul accepts Him.

I will need my coat all through life. When I travel through the valley of death and when I view the future, I will always wear my new coat.
(Author Unknown)

RAISING CHILDREN

2008-11-22T12:04:00.000-08:00

If children live with criticism,
They learn to condemn.

If children live with hostility,
They learn to fight.

If children live with ridicule,
They learn to be shy.

If children live with shame,
They learn to feel guilty

If children live with tolerance,
They learn to be patient.

If children live with encouragement,
They learn confidence.

If children live with praise,
They learn to appreciate.

If children live with fairness,
They learn justice.

If children live with security,
They learn to have faith.

If children live with approval,
They learn to like themselves.

If children live with acceptance and friendship,
They learn to find love in the world.
[Anonymous]

2008-10-09T06:35:00.000-07:00

Letting Go

To let go doesn't mean to stop caring;
It means I can't do it for someone else.
To let go is not to cut myself off...
It's the realization that
I can't control another...
To let go is not to enable,
but to allow learning from natural consequences.

To let go is to admit powerlessness,
which means the outcome is not in my hands.
To let go is not to try and change or blame another,
I can only change myself.

To let go is not to care for, but to care about.
To let go is not to fix, but to be supportive.
To let go is not to judge,but to allow another to be a human being.
To let go is not to be in the middle arranging all the outcomes,
but to allow others to affect their own outcomes.

To let go is not to be protective,
It is to permit another to face reality.
To let go is not to deny, but to accept.
To let go is not to nag, scold, or argue,
but to search out my own shortcomings and correct them.

To let go is not to adjust everything to my desires,
but to take each day as it comes and cherish the moment.
To let go is not to criticize and regulate anyone,
but to try to become what I dream I can be.

To let go is not to regret the past,
but to grow and live for the future.
To let go is to fear less and love more.
[Unknown]

2008-09-28T05:05:00.000-07:00

THE 7-UPS
(Encourage Yourself in the Lord)

1. WAKE UP!!
Decide to have a good day.
"Today is the day the Lord hath made;
let us rejoice and be glad in it"
Psalms 118:24

2. DRESS UP!!
The best way to dress up is to put on a smile.
A smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.
"The Lord does not look at the things man looks at.
Man looks at outward appearance;
but the Lord looks at the heart"
I Sam 16:7

3. SHUT UP!!
Say nice things and learn to listen.
God gave us two ears and one mouth,
so He must have meant for us to do twice
as much listening as talking.
"He who guards his lips guards his soul"
Proverbs 13:3.
"Gossip betrays confidence.
Avoid men who talk too much"
Proverbs 20:19
"Listen to advice, accept instruction and
in the end, you will be wise"
Proverbs 19:20

4. STAND UP!!
...For what you believe in. Stand for something
or you will fall for anything.
"Let us not be weary in doing good;
for at the proper time, we will reap a harvest
if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have
opportunity, let us do good..."
Galatians 6:9-10

5. LOOK UP!!
...To the Lord. "I can do everything through
Christ who strengthens me".
Philippians 4:13

6. REACH UP!!
...For something higher.
"Trust in the Lord with
all your heart, and lean not unto your own
understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him,
and He will direct your path".
Proverbs 3:5-6

7. LIFT UP!!
...Your Prayers. "Do not worry about anything;
instead PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING"
Philippians 4:6

Tags: be calm

2008-09-12T06:59:00.000-07:00

Think Big
Walter D. Wintle

If you think you are beaten, you are.
If you think you dare not, you won’t.
If you like to win, but don’t think you can,
It’s almost a cinch that you won’t.
If you think you’ll lose, you’ve lost,
For out in the world you’ll find
Success begins with a person’s will;
It’s all in the state of mind.

For many a game is lost
Before even a step is run
And many a coward fails
Before his work is begun.
Think big and your deed will grow;
Think small and you will fall behind.
Think that you can and you will;
It’s all in the state of mind.
If you think that you are out-classed, you are;
You’ve got to think high to rise.
You’ve got to be sure of yourself
Before you can win the prize.

Life’s battles don't always go
To the strongest or fastest man
But sooner or later the person who wins
Is the person who thinks she can.

2008-08-31T10:25:00.000-07:00

A Million Dollar Question:
Why do bad things happen to good people?

Many tragic stories raise a vexing question
which we rarely find answers: why does God
let misfortune wreck the lives of so many good people?
why does he let suffering bring tears to
the eyes of so many fine individuals? The reasons
indeed are mysterious and only fools can define
the reasons which the wise may not.
Jesus gives us a hint: Whoever loses his life for my sake
will find it. Whoever accepts suffering
and misfortune for His sake will find a whole new life,
a far richer and meaningful life. God can use tragedy
and misfortune to guide us into a newer and better lives.
Today, whatever situations we are in - financial difficulties,
family problems and personal tragedy - we pick up our
cross and follow Jesus. He can mend our broken dreams
and lead us into a renewed appreciation of life that we
never dream possible. We trust in His assurance: whoever
loses his life for my sake will find it. We may never
understand the mystery of misfortune in this life but
certainly we will in the later years of our lives.

An old Poem: "The Folded Page"

Up in the attic of an old house, as raindrops pattered
on the roof, I sat paging through my old schoolbook.

I came to a page that was folded down. Across it was
written in my childish hand: "The teacher says we should
leave this for now. It's hard to understand."
I unfolded the page and read it. Then I smiled and
nodded my head and said: "The teacher was right;
now I understand."

There are many pages in the book of life that are
hard to understand. All we can do is fold them down
and write: "The Master says to leave this for now.
It's hard to understand."

Then, someday, somehow, in heaven,
we 'll unfold the pages , reread them and say,
"The Master was right; now I understand."
[Unknown]

Crosses can turn out to be blessings in disguise
if we then understand. It really takes awhile.
If we pick up the cross and follow in the footsteps
of Jesus, our cross can become a blessing and
a stepping stone to greater things. Our cross can
serve as an agent of life - our fullness of life.

The consolation of Jesus can be summarized
in this poem:

I asked for health, that I might do greater things;
I was given infirmity, that I might do better things.

I asked for riches, that I might be happy;
I was given poverty, that I might be wise.

I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men;
I was given weakness, that I might feel the need of God.

I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life;
I was given life, that I might enjoy all things.

I got nothing I asked for, but everything I hoped for.
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers
were answered. I am among all men most richly
blessed. [Unknown]

2008-08-29T11:25:00.000-07:00

Today's joy was born of yesterday's sorrow

Who said the "darkness of the night"
Would never turn to day ...
Who said the "winter's bleakness"
Would never pass away ...
Who said the fog would never lift
And let the sunshine through ...
Who said the skies now overcast
Would nevermore be blue ...
Why should we ever entertain
These thoughts so dark and grim
And let the brightness of our mind
Grow cynical and dim ...
When we know beyond all questioning
That winter turns to spring ...
And on the notes of sorrow
New songs are made to sing ...
For no one sheds a teardrop
Or suffers loss in vain,
For God is always there to turn
Our losses into gain.
And every burden born TODAY
And every present sorrow
Are but God's happy harbingers
Of a joyous, bright TOMORROW!
[Helen Steiner Rice]~

2008-08-29T11:11:00.000-07:00

On Eagle's Wings

You who dwell...(On eagles wings)
who abide in His shadow for life,
say to the Lord: 'My refuge,
my God in whom I trust!'

And He will raise you up on eagles' wings,
bear you on the breath of dawn,
make you to shine like the sun,
and hold you in the palm of His hand.
The snare of the fowler will never capture you,
and famine will bring you no fear:
under His wings your refuge,
His faithfulness your shield.

And He will raise you up on eagles' wings,
bear you on the breath of dawn,
make you to shine like the sun,
and hold you in the palm of His hand.
You need not fear the terror of the night,
nor the arrow that flies by day;
though thousands fall about you,
near you it shall not come.

And He will raise you up on eagles' wings,
bear you on the breath of dawn,
make you to shine like the sun,
and hold you in the palm of His hand.

For to His angels He's given a command
to guard you in all of your ways
upon their hands they will bear you up,
lest you dash your foot against a stone.

And He will raise you up on eagles' wings,
bear you on the breath of dawn,
make you to shine like the sun,
and hold you in the palm of His hand.
[Author Unknown]

2008-08-29T11:04:00.000-07:00

God Knows

When you are tired and discouraged from fruitless efforts...
God knows how hard you have tried.
When you've cried so long and your heart is in anguish...
God has counted your tears.
If you feel that your life is on hold and time has passed you by...
God is waiting with you.
When you're lonely and your friends are too busy
even for a phone call...
God is by your side.
When you think you've tried everything
and don't know where to turn...
God has a solution.
When nothing makes sense and you are confused or frustrated...
God has the answer.
If suddenly your outlook is brighter and you find traces of hope...
God has whispered to you.
When things are going well and you have much to be thankful for...
God has blessed you.
When something joyful happens and you are filled with awe...
God has smiled upon you.
When you have a purpose to fulfill and a dream to follow...
God has opened your eyes and called you by name.
Remember that wherever you are or
whatever you are facing...GOD KNOWS.

2008-08-29T10:32:00.000-07:00

IN THIS LIFE
Mike Hall

In This Life,
You'll have days of bright and blue
with good friends and laughter....
enough to see you through.
In This Life,
There will be misery and doubt
things you scratch your head at....
and just can't figure out.
In This Life,
You'll have dreams that reach the sky
and passion to move you....
until the day you die.
In This Life,
There will be days of pain and loss
and times when your only comfort is
The Man upon The Cross.
In This Life,
You'll imagine what could be
and think the world is yours for all eternity.
In This Life,
There are trials you must face
and days when the world leaves you lost without a trace.
In This Life,
We are called to help the poor
to leave the cushy comfort that rests behind our door.
In This Life,
You’ll be astounded at how quickly years go by
and look back at memories that often make you cry.
In This Life,
You'll taste both victory and defeat
and make mistakes that wisdom won't allow you to repeat.
In This Life,
You'll find answers to the questions you hold dear
and live for Him who'll take away your worries and your fear.

2008-08-28T21:26:00.000-07:00

Family Quotes

"There's one sad truth in life I've found,
While journeying east and west
The only folks we really wound,
Are those we love the best.
We flatter those we scarcely know,
We please the fleeting guest,
And deal full many a thoughtless blow,
To those who love us best."
[Ella Wheeler Wilcox]

"The happiest moments of my life
have been the few which I have passed
at home in the bosom of my family."
[ Thomas Jefferson]

"A father may turn his back on his child,
brothers and sisters may become
inveterate enemies, husbands may desert
their wives, wives their husbands.
But a mother's love endures through all"
[Washington Irving]

2008-08-28T21:17:00.000-07:00

The Eternal Family Circle
Melissa D. Nocito

In a ring like a circle
Our family, nothing could break
We had no Idea it was you
That God had on his list "next to take"
A faith in God you kept so strong
All throughout the years
As others watched you, their example
To their unfaithful eyes came tears.
Never once complaining
Never saying "oh God, why me?"
Taking in all the pain
That no one else could see.
With a headache we will whimper
With a toothache one will cry
But no matter what happened to you
I don't remember even hearing a sigh.
You coughing at night reassured me
That you were feeling "OK".
It let me know that you were here
And I'd see you the next day.
You never questioned God
You simply accepted his rules
And no matter how helpless someone seemed
You never dared to call people fools.
You were like my earthly angel
Watching over me silently
And no matter what we did
You always loved your family.
Even though your not here now
We keep you in our hearts.
We know we'll see you in heaven
When it's our turn to depart.
Walking the white staircase
Through the pearly gates
You can hear the angels singing
A big bright smile is on your face.
Someday we can join you
And our circle will remain
But till we get to heaven
Our memories will help the pain.
You'll never be forgotten
We certainly will miss you
We know that you loved us
And you knew that we loved you.
A circle can't be broken
It goes on eternally.
And although we no longer see you
You're still part of this family.
And as much as we all love living,
And remembering you in our own way
We can't wait for God to come get us
So we can see you again someday.

2008-08-27T14:32:00.000-07:00

THE HOUSE YOU ARE BUILDING

Every spirit builds itself a house,
And beyond its house a world,
And beyond its world a heaven.
Know then that the world
Exist for you. For you is
The phenomenon perfect.

What we are, that only can we see.
All that Adam had, all that Caesar could,
You have and can do. Adam called his house,
heaven and earth. Caesar called his house,
Rome.

You perhaps call yours a cobbler's trade;
a scholar's garret. yet line for line and point
for point, your dominion is as great as theirs,
though without fine names.

Build therefore your own world. As fast
as you conform your life to the pure idea in
your mind, that will unfold into great proportions.
[Ralph Waldo Emerson]

2008-08-27T14:18:00.000-07:00

HOME FOLKS

Home folks - love 'em, well I guess,
Hearts jest made of real kindness;
Miss 'em - I should say I do,
Don't find many folks as true.
Seems like now I jes' can hear
Home folks words of love and cheer,
Knowin' I've a welcome there
Truer an' warmer'n anywhere.

Home folks ain't jes' family kin,
They're the folks with whom you've been
Reared and raised for years an' years,
Minglin' all your smiles an' tears.
Till they seem a part o' you
From yer childhood clear on through,
Standin' by you, lose or win,
Same as real blood, kith an' kin.

Makes no difference what you do,
Seems like homefolks still stay true;
Overlookin' wayward ways,
Jes' rememberin' happy days,
Er when praise is but yer due
Fer something you've tried to do,
Homefolks hands are quick to clasp
Yours in proud an' hearty grasp.

Stranger folks are purty nice,
Distant things lure an' entice,
But I like home folks the bes'!
Bein' with 'em's like a res'.
When death comes an' I must go,
Wish that I could only know
That there'd be some home folks nigh,
Sorter watchin', linger' by.
[Ruth Yoland Shaw]

2008-08-27T14:08:00.000-07:00

HOUSE AND HOME

Anyone can build an altar;
it requires God to provide the flame.
Anyone can build a house; we need
the Lord for the creation of a home.

A house is a agglomeration of brick
and stones, with an assorted collection
of manufactured goods; a home is the
abiding-place of ardent affection,
of fervent hope, of genial trust.

There is many a homeless man who lives
in a richly furnished house. There is many
a fifteen-pound house in a crowded street
which is an illuminated and beautiful home.

There is sumptuously furnished house may
only be an exquisitely sculptured tomb;
the scantily furnished house may be
the very hearthstone of the eternal God.
[John Henry Jowett]

2008-08-27T13:47:00.001-07:00

WHAT MAKES A HOME

A man can build a mansion
Anywhere this world about,
A man can build a palace
Richly furnish it throughout.

A man can build a mansion
Or a tiny cottage fair,
But it's not the hallowed place
called "Home"
'Til Mother's dwelling there.

A man can build a mansion
With a high and spacious dome,
But no man in this world can build
That precious thing called "Home."

A man can build a mansion
Carting treasures o'er the foam,
Yes, a man can build the building
But a woman makes it "Home."

"What makes a home?"
I asked my little boy,
And this is what he said,
"You, mother,
And when father comes.
Our table set all shiny,
And my bed,
And mother, I think it's home,
Because we love each other."

You who are old and wise,
What would you say
If you were asked the question?
Tell me, pray.

And simply as a little child,
The old wise ones can answer
nothing more -
A man, a woman and a child,
Their love,
Warm as the gold hearth fire
along the floor,
A table, a lamp for light.
And smooth white beds at night
Only the old sweet fundamental things.

And long ago I learned -
Home may be near, home may be far
But it is anywhere
That love
And a few plain household treasures are.

2008-08-27T06:38:00.000-07:00

WHERE IS HOME?

I turned an ancient poet's book
And found upon the page,
"Stone walls do not a prison make
Or iron bars a cage."
Yes, that is true, and something more,
You will find where'er you roam
That marble floors and gilded walls
Can never make a home.
But everywhere that love abides,
And friendship is a guest
Is surely home, and home sweet home,
For there the soul can rest.
[Henry Van Dyke]

2008-08-27T06:23:00.000-07:00

Mother

As long as we carried to your knees
The tales and treasures of eventful days,
Knowing no deed too humble for your praise,
Nor any gift too trivial to please,

So still we bring with older smiles and tears,
What gifts we may to claim the old, dear right;
Your faith beyond the silence and the night;
Your love still close and watching through the years.

2008-08-27T06:07:00.000-07:00

Our Home

And where we love is home,
Home that our feet may leave,
but not our hearts,
The chain may lengthen,
but it never parts.
[Oliver Wendell Holmes]

We need to think of the home
as the cradle into which
the future is born.
We need to think of a family
as the nursery in which
the social order is being reared.
The family is a covenant of posterity.
[Sidney Goldstein]

I would say to all: use your gentlest
voice at home. Watch it day by day,
as a pearl of great price; for it will be
worth to you in days to come more
than the best pearl hid in the sea.

A kind voice is joy, like a lark's song,
to hearth at home. It is a light that
sings as well as shines. Train it to
sweet tones now and it will keep
in tune through life.
[Elihu Burrit]

Home is the place where character is built,
where sacrifices to contribute to
the happiness of others are made,
and where love has taken up its abode.
[Elijah Kellog]

Home to me is Laughter...
Kisses on the cheek
when they're least expected;
Glances filled with gladness;
The happiness in knowing
I'm a portion of
My family's fulfilment.
Home to me... is Love.
[June Brown Harris]

2008-08-27T06:04:00.001-07:00

What makes a home?

Love and sympathy and confidence,
The memories of childhood,
The kindness of parents.
The bright hopes of youth,
The sister's pride,
The brothers' sympathy and help,
The mutual confidence,
The common hopes and interests
and sorrows -
These create and sanctify the home.
[John Lubbock]

2008-08-24T15:57:00.000-07:00

FAMILY

When it's family,
You forgive them for they know not what they do.
When it's family,
You accept them, 'cause you have no choice but to,

When it's family,
They're a mirror of the worst and the best in you,
And they always put you to the test,
And you always try to do your best,
And just pray to God to do the rest, when it's family.
And when it's family,You trust them.
And your heart is an open door.

When it's family,
You tolerate, what you'd feel others for.
When it's family,You love and hate and take, then give some more.
Somehow you justify mistakes,
Try to find some better way to solve
The day to day problems in the family.
(Dolly Parton)

2008-08-12T20:47:00.000-07:00

Inspiration

No one should negotiate their dreams. Dreams must be free to flee and fly high. No government, no legislature, has a right to limit your dreams. You should never agree to surrender your dreams.
[Rev. Jesse Jackson]

The future depends on what we do in the present.Mahatma Gandhi Inspiration and genius--one and the same.
[Victor Hugo]

Nothing is predestined: The obstacles of your past can become the gateways that lead to new beginnings.
[Ralph Blum]

On Triumph and Defeat. There are some defeats more triumphant than victories. [Montaigne,Essays]

On Faith and Inspiration. The world has no room for cowards. We must all be ready somehow to toil, to suffer, to die. And yours is not the less noble because no drum beats before you when you go out into your daily battlefields, and no crowds shout about your coming when you return from your daily victory or defeat.
[Robert Louis Stevenson]

Being unwanted, unloved, uncared for, forgotten by everybody, I think that is a much greater hunger, a much greater poverty than the person who has nothing to eat...We must find each other.
[Mother Teresa]

It is possible to provide security against other ills, but as far as death is concerned, we men live in a city without walls.
[Epicurus]

Healthy children will not fear life if their elders have integrity enough not to fear death.
Erik H. Erikson]

There are so many little dyings that it doesn't matter which of them is death. [Kenneth Patchen]

2008-08-12T20:03:00.000-07:00

Desiderata

GO PLACIDLY AMID THE NOISE AND THE HASTE, AND REMEMBER WHAT PEACE THERE MAY BE IN SILENCE.
As far as possible, without surrender, be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even to the dull and ignorant; they, too, have their story.Avoid loud and aggressive persons; they are vexations to the spirit If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain or bitter, for always there will be greater or lesser persons than yourself. Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in you own career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs, for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you for what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals and everywhere live is full of heroism. Be yourself. Especially do not feign affection. Neither be cynical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment, it is as perennial as the grass. Take kindly the council of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with dark imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful.
Strive to be happy.
Max Ehrmann, 1927

Peace

Man never grows up,
he only grows older,
losing on his way
the happiness
of seeing a butterfly
on a blade of grass
and shedding
the simple smile
and simple honesty
of childhood. . .
carrying with him
the loneliness and fear,
the insecurity and rivalry
that clouds his days
with discontent.

Yet, there are still
a few among us
who walk with peace;
having neither envy
nor anger;
neither fear of death
nor hunger for wealth,
who live out their years
with a calm smile . . .
untouched
by the brutal hunger
of other men !
[Tom Weber]

A Smile

A Smile Costs Nothing,
but gives much.
It enriches those who receive
without making poorer those who give.
It takes but a moment
but the memory of it sometimes lasts forever.
None is so rich and mighty that he can get along without it,
and none is so poor that he cannot be made rich by it.

A Smile creates happiness in the home,
fosters goodwill in business,
and is the countersign of friendship.
A smile brings rest to the weary,
cheer to the discouraged, sunshine to the sad,
and it is nature's best antidote for trouble.

Yet it cannot be bought, begged, borrowed or stolen,
for it is something that is of no value to anyone
until it is given away.

Some people are too tired to give you a smile,
Give them one of yours,
as none needs a smile so much
as he who has no more to give.
[Anon]

2008-08-07T07:35:00.000-07:00

Cornelia's Jewels

It was a bright morning in the old city
of Rome many hundred years ago. Two
brothers were playing in a garden when
their mother, called them into the house.
"A friend is coming to dine today," she told
them. "She is very rich, and she will show us
her jewels.'

Soon the woman arrived. Her fingers sparkled
with rings. Her arms glittered with bracelets.
Chains of gold hung about her neck, and strands
of pearls gleamed in her hair.

"Did you see anyone so pretty?" the young boy
whispered to his brother. "She looks like a queen!"

They gazed at their own mother, who was dressed
only in a white robe. Her hands and arms were bare,
and for a crown she had only braids of soft brown hair
coiled about her head. But her kind smile seemed to
light her face more than any bright stone could.

"Would you like to see some more of my treasures?"
the rich woman asked. A servant brought a box
and set it on a table. When the lady opened it,
there were heaps of blood rubies, sapphires as blue
as the sky, emeralds as green as the sea, diamonds
that flashed like sunlight.

The brothers looked long at the gems. "
Ah!" whispered the younger. "if only our mother
could have such beautiful things." At last, however,
the box was closed and carried away. "Tell me,
Cornelia," the rich woman said with a pitying smile,
"Is it true you have no jewels? Is it true you are
too poor?"

Cornelia, smiled. "Not at all," she said. "I have jewels
far more valuable than yours."

"Then let me see them," the lady laughed.
"Where are they?" Cornelia drew her boys to her side.
"These are my jewels," She smiled. "Are they not far
more precious than your gems?"

The two boys, tiberius and Caius Gracchus, never
forgot their mother's pride and love and care.
Years later, when they had become great statesmen
of Rome, they liked to think of this scene in the garden.
And when the Roman people erected statues to honor
the brothers, they did not forget to pay tribute to
the woman who showed them how to be wise and
good. The Romans inscribed her tomb this way:
"Cornelia, mother of the Gracchi."

2008-08-06T06:14:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Hands

These hands are clean, indeed,
but, they are hard from toil.
These hands have been helping mothers
and fathers dry the dishes, and sweep
the floor, and wash the windows, and
weed the garden. These hands have
been taking care of the baby, and
carrying hot tea to Grandma, and
showing little brother how to build
his blocks and fly his kites. Yes,
these hands have been making
the house a happy home, full of love
and care.

Then, an old woman fumbled in her pocket
and brought out a ring set with diamonds,
with rubies redder than strawberries,
and turquoise bluer than violets.

"Here, wear this ring, my child." "You
deserve the prize for the most beautiful
hands, for they have been most helpful."

2008-08-06T05:42:00.000-07:00

Philosophy of Life

Wisdom has always been regarded
as the sibling virtue of morality.

We live in a world - from womb
to tomb. We have our own stories
and our own glories. We ponder and
we testify; life indeed is a journey.
Our journey is profound and
passionate. We oblige ourselves
to share our stories so that those
who are behind us may learn to
follow the track and may find life,
worth the journey. Our experiences
are passed down from one generation
to the next and thus begins the cycle
of life. Life boils down to finding meaning
as we journey the process of existence,
called life. We learn. We teach. We search
for answers and share these answers.
Very few listen. The process continues
and never end. Our question remains
and the answer is always searched,
always never definite, each according to
one life's purpose and existence.
We quest and we search - never a goal
nor a direction, but a vicious cycle.
Philosophy is full of complication and
the same way with life; we are never
satisfied as long as we are alive.

2008-08-03T08:31:00.000-07:00

MY TWO HOMES
(Many children feel at home
in their house because they
know it is part of God's house)

Of all the houses in the world
The one that I love best
Is that in which I wake and play
And lay me down to rest.

My father built it by his toil;
My mother makes its a home;
You cannot find a lovelier place
No matter where you roam.

The rooms are clean and bright
and fair with pictures, books,
and toys, and food, and clothes,
and beds, and chairs
For all the girls and boys.

We children work and care for it,
And help to keep it clean,
Our palace of true happiness,
Where mother reigns as queen,
and my father guards us with his strength,
A wise and gracious king,
To whom we pay the honor due,
And glad obedience bring.

So full of love and joy it is,
So safe and bright and warm,
I would not go too far from it
Lest I should come to harm.

And yet when I go out of doors
And look up at the sky
I know I'm in my Father's house,
And that His love is nigh.

For God is Father - Mother, too!
The world is my big home;
The green grass is the carpet,
And the blue sky is the dome.

On every side are pictures;
The fields are full of food;
And all the things that God has made
are beautiful and good.

He keeps me by His mighty power,
He loves me as a child;
His paths are bright with happiness,
His laws are just and mild.

And all His children in this house,
So wonderful and fair,
should love each other, learn His truth,
And trust His love and care.

I thank Thee, Father, for these homes,
Where we may dwell with Thee,
And cast out fear, and share the joys
Thou givest full and free.
[Henry Hallam Tweedy]

2008-08-03T06:59:00.000-07:00

YOUR MOTHER

A young man was walking through a supermarket
to pick up a few things when he noticed an old lady
following him around. Thinking nothing of it,
he ignored her and continued on. Finally he went
to the checkout line, but she got in front of him.
"Pardon me," she said, "I am sorry if my staring
at you has made you feel uncomfortable. It's just that
you look like my son, who just died recently."
"I am very sorry," replied the young man,
"is there anything I can do for you?"
"Yes," she said, "as I 'm leaving, can you say
'Goodbye,Mother'? It would make me feel so much better."
"Sure," answered the young man.
As the old woman was leaving, he called out,
"Goodbye, Mother!"
As he stepped up to the checkout counter,
he saw that his total was $127.50.
"How can that be?" he asked, "I only purchased a few things!"
"You mother said that you would pay for her," said the clerk.

YOU 'RE A MOM WHEN

You know you 're a mom when you 're up each night until 10 pm,
vacuuming, dusting, wiping, washing, drying, loading, unloading,
shopping, cooking, driving, flushing, ironing, sweeping, picking up,
changing sheets, changing diapers, bathing, helping with homework,
paying bills, budgeting, clipping coupons, folding clothes, putting to
bed, dragging out of bed, brushing, chasing, buckling, feeding
(them, not you), PLUS, swinging, playing baseball, bike riding,,
pushing trucks, cuddling dolls, rollerblading, basketball, football,
catch bubbles, sprinklers, slides, nature walks, coloring, crafts,
jumping rope, PLUS raking, trimming, planting, edging, mowing,
gardening, painting, and walking the dog. You get up at 5:30 am
and you have no time to eat, sleep, drink or go to the bathroom,
and yet.. you still manage to gain 10 pounds.

Tags: The miracle worker

2008-07-31T18:45:00.000-07:00

Wisdom

Wisdom is regarded as the sibling

virtue of morality. If an individual

is to do good, the tenets of the heart

must be informed and directed by

a well-ordered mind. Prudence

would rather be the ability to

govern and discipline oneself

by the use of reason. It means

being able to recognize the right

choice in a specific circumstances,

and it was the intellecutal virtue

that made it possible for the moral

virtues into action.

2008-07-31T13:40:00.000-07:00

Life's Journey

The first lessons we learned from home
stay with us long after we leave home,
In our affection and our memories,
they remain forever a part of us,
often the most cherished part of us.
The moral journey that begins with
leaving home is the search for opportunities
to offer others the same nurture and love
we received in our own childhood.
The memory of home becomes a past,
an experience, an ideal we seek to recreate
in our later lives, and in the new lives
we shepherd into the world.
We build our own homes,
offer our own lessons, nurture
our own children in the strength
and knowledge once gained
beside the first warm hearth
of our home.

2008-07-31T13:33:00.000-07:00

Lessons from Home

We find family members helping each other
along, and looking toward each other for help.
We find siblings showing what fraternity really
mean. We see children learning about chores
and responsibilities and self-sacrifice, and learning
to help parents out of love. We encounter young
hearts giving loving obedience. We witness
the growth of conscience, of desire to live up
to the expectations of those who love us.
We witness how our loyalty and courage
and perseverance see families through
hard times with a love that can overcome
any number of obstacles.

2008-07-31T11:10:00.000-07:00

Home and Hearth

All children need bread and shelter.
But a true home is much more than that.
Children need love and order.
The transmission of virtues is one
important reason for a home and
attention to the virtues is one of the
important ties that bind a family
together.

Home is the place where we receive
our first instructions. It is our first
moral training ground, a place where
we come to differentiate right from
wrong through the nurturing and
protective care of those who love us.
Our character takes shape under the
guidance of instructions. In the familiar
world of home and hearth, we learn the
habits of virtue that will fortify us when
we venture into the world.

2008-07-30T21:04:00.000-07:00

Daily Cue

The sound of a bell, a church chime
or the stroke of a clock is a cue
for me to pray.

When I see a candle, I am reminded
to focus my devotion to God.

Blessed is the beloved
who is worshipped and served
through our devotion.

A devotional life is one lived
in the presence of the Lord.

Be happy that this garden
pleases God.

2008-07-30T19:22:00.001-07:00

Character

What you love and what you hate
reveal what you are.

Your character is what God knows
you to be. Your reputation is what
you think you are.

Fame is a vapor,
Popularity is an accident.
Riches takes wings and fly,
those who cheer may curse
tomorrow; Only one thing
endures - Character.

2008-07-30T18:57:00.000-07:00

Trusting God's timing

God has an appointed time
to answer our prayers
and to bring our dreams to pass.

It is still going to happen
on God's timetable.

The vision is for an appointed time,
though it is tarry, wait earnestly for it,
for it will come to pass.

Why not be happy while God is
in the process of changing things.

Relax and enjoy life - while knowing
that God is going to bring His plan
to pas at His appointed time.
Let God change you
in His own way
and in His own timing.

Be patient. It is not the right time.

God sees the big picture.

All the pieces have to come together
for it to be God's perfect timing.
Let God do it His way.

2008-07-30T18:20:00.000-07:00

Spiritual Practices

Spiritual practices are activities you do
to deepen your relationship with the sacred.
You relate in particular way your inner self,
other people and the world around you.

We are what we practice:
If we become angry a lot,
essentially, we are practicing
anger. If we practice being
joyful, then a joyful person is
what we become.

We are practicing all kinds of things
all the time, but the decision to do
spiritual practices is INTENTIONAL.

Spirituality is not about goals, creeds
and dogmas; it is about EXPERIENCE.

2008-07-30T18:04:00.000-07:00

Love matters

"A person's body absorbs and stores
all the love it receives in the course
of a lifetime, and when the body dies,
it pours out all that love "like a broken
slot machine disgorging the coins of all
generations," and all the people nearby,
and all the world, are warmed by the
love that has been returned to them."
[Yehuda Amichai]

People die, but LOVE does not die.
It is recycled from one heart, from
one life, to another.

By being good people, by bringing
good people together to form moral
communities, we have an impact in
the world.

"To leave the world a bit better, whether
by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a
redeemed social condition; to know that
even one life has breathed easier because
you lived, that you have succeeded."
[Ralph Waldo Emerson]

A good person even in death is still alive.

The most reliable way to matter to
the world is to love the people closest to us.

Faith begins where human self sufficiency ends.
When we realize we can do many marvelous things
but we can't do everything.

2008-07-30T17:48:00.000-07:00

Why we matter most

I believe that whoever we are,
and however much or little
we accomplish in our lives,
we matter to God.

God has shown me how to invest
the most mundane moments
of my life with holiness.

"The nicest feeling in the world
is to do a good deed anonymously
and have somebody find out."
[Oscar Wilde]

"Few of us can do great things
but all of us can do small things
with great love."
[Mother Teresa]

We are the supporting cast of
a great and on going drama,
and it is our inestimable privilege
to be part of it.

Goodness and Love are two of
the experiences that assure us
that our lives have mattered
to the world, that we have
not lived in vain.

We ourselves shall be loved
for a while and forgotten,
but the love will have been
enough... There is land of
the living and a land of the dead,
and the bridge is LOVE,
the only survival, the only meaning.
[Thornton Wilder]

2008-07-30T17:15:00.000-07:00

The Holy Fool

"God gives us burdens and
God gives us shoulders."

The "Holy Fool" is the person of
simple faith whose uncomplicated
joy at being in the presence of God
is more authentically religious than
prayers and sermons of learned
theologians.

The fool sees the truth more than
anyone else.

There is a place in heaven for fools
whereas heaven's gate will be closed
to the clever, cruel and calculating
people who embittered his life.

TAM is a word of Hebrew origin
meaning, plain, simple, uncomplicated.

2008-07-30T17:07:00.000-07:00

Three Stages of Moral Development

1. Doing right out of fear of punishment
2. Doing right out of a feeling of communal
solidarity with others and
3. Doing right because it is right.
[Laurence Kohlberg]

2008-07-30T14:07:00.000-07:00

Spiritual Life

Spiritual life is the life of man's real self,
the life of that interior self whose flame
is so often allowed to be smothered under
the ashes of anxiety and futile concern.

The Spiritual life is oriented toward God,
rather than toward the immediate satisfaction
of the material needs of life, but it is not,
for all that, a life of unreality or a life of
dreams. On the contrary, without life of
the spirit, our whole existence becomes
unsubstantial and illusory.

The Life of the spirit, by integrating us
in the real order established by God,
puts us in the fullest possible contact
with reality - not as we imagine it,
but as it really is. It does so by making us
aware of our own selves, and placing them
in the presence of God.
[Fr. M. Louis, OCSO]

2008-07-30T13:47:00.000-07:00

Lesson of a lifetime

My son, when you come to serve the Lord
prepare yourself for trials.
Be sincere of heart and steadfast,
undisturbed in times of adversity.
Cling to Him, forsake Him not;
thus will your future be great.
Accept whatever befalls you,
in crushing misfortune be patient;
For in fire gold is tested
and worthy men in the crucible
of humiliation.
TRUST GOD and He will help you,
make straight your ways
and hope in Him.

You, who fear the Lord,
wait for His mercy.
Turn not away lest you fall.
You, who fear the Lord,
trust Him and
your reward will not be lost.
You, who fear the Lord,
hope for good things,
for lasting joy and mercy.

Study the generations long past
and understand, has anyone hoped
in the Lord and been disappointed?
Has anyone persevered in His fear
and been forsaken? Has anyone called
upon Him and been rebuffed?
Compassionate and merciful is the Lord,
He forgives sins,
He saves in times of trouble.
[Sirach 2:1-11]

2008-07-29T07:32:00.000-07:00

Lord, sometimes You have to

... break, so You can rebuild
... wound, so You can heal
... let me walk in darkness,
so that I see Your light
... let me be confused,
so I seek Your truth
... let me feel emptiness
so you can fill me
... let me feel lonely, so I
can see what a friend You are
... let me learn the hard things,
so I can be a gentle teacher
... let me be void of feelings,
so I must walk by faith
... take away my future plans,
to teach me to live one day at a time.
... show me the futility of life,
so I will see that everything is loss
compared to the surpassing value
of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.
[Sue Knepp]

2008-07-29T07:20:00.000-07:00

THANKSGIVING

Count your blessings instead of crosses;
Count your gain instead of losses.
Count your joys instead of woes;
Count your friends instead of foes.
Count your smiles instead of tears;
Count your courage instead of fears.
Count your full years instead of lean;
Count your kind deeds instead of mean.
Count your health instead of wealth;
Count on God instead of yourself!

2008-07-29T06:59:00.000-07:00

TIME

Time is God's gift to mortal man.
It is that fleeting little span
Between our birth and heaven's door,
Where we begin God's ever more
When time is over.
How then, should we our time employ?
In service or in passing joy?
Can we afford to throw away
And squander time in passing play -
O men of clay?
[Neighbor]

2008-07-29T06:48:00.000-07:00

LESSONS TO LEARN

Take time to work
It is the price of success.
Take time to think
It is the source of power.
Take time to play
It is the secret of youth.
Take time to read
It is the foundation of knowledge.
Take time to worship
It is the highway of reverence.
Take time to help and enjoy friends
It is the source of happiness.
Take time to love
It is the one sacrament of life.
Take time to dream
It hitches the soul to the stars.
Take time to pray
It helps bring Christ near.