12 December 2016
"Am I not here, I, who am your Mother? Are you not under my shadow and protection? Am I not the source of your joy? Are you not in the hollow of my mantle, in the crossing of my arms? Do you need anything more? Let nothing else worry you, disturb you."
- Words spoken by Mama Mary to St. Juan Diego at Guadalupe
Today is the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe. I am grateful to have made it five or so minutes before the morning mass. It is through her that I have learned to appreciate Mary as my mother; it is through her that I have found peace and comfort during some very difficult times in my life in the last two years; it is her who repaired my relationship with my mother and daughter; she showed me the way to Joseph and most importantly, to Jesus Christ and my Abba by helping me untie the knots in my life with her gentle hands, patience, and understanding.
***
In the evening, I felt at peace as acceptance came upon me: he is not the one.
***
Sadness enveloped me as I watched some documentaries on the war on drugs. I resolved to celebrate Christmas quietly and simply in solidarity with the poor and the sinners with whom Christ has come to live amongst.
***
Thus, I now understand why Christ warned us that following Him meant a lot of struggles especially against our flesh and the material world. Life has never been the same when as when I look at my modest earnings and possessions, and can't bear to have more than what I need out of solidarity for those who have less; I can't enjoy a decent meal without sharing a little tip for the waiters who get minimum wages and no significant bonuses... And I can no longer keep relationships that do not keep me holy nor closer to God.
No comments:
Post a Comment