...In A Handbasket

Finding my focus.

2011-08-17T04:01:00.001-04:00

I started this blog as a way to express my thoughts about things going on in the world and how they affect Catholics and Catholics in the public arena but also some mundane things, too. I've noticed I've posted a lot of make-up reviews and not much else in light of Catholicism or what's going on in the world. I'm reconsidering the aim of this: I love make-up but I'm not expert by any means. I've been avoiding the news the most of the past year, so I'm not sure where to go with this. Perhaps take a hiatus from this blog and focus on the Rosary Page and the blog dedicated to the Suffering Souls. I'm going through a very trying and difficult time in my personal life at the moment as well. I don't know, we shall see I suppose. I know I've been just terrible in updating the others. Maybe combine them into one? I will think and pray hard on this.

My Review of Under Eye Concealer & Highlighter

2011-07-16T06:38:00.002-04:00

Originally submitted at EyesLipsFace.com

Correct under eye problematic areas such as dark circles and bags easily and effectively! Contains vitamins A & E, chamomile, caffeine and green tea to moisturize, soothe, and tighten the skin around the delicate eye area. Blends in easily and evenly to provide a smooth and natural finish.

I really like this

By Spooky from Lansing, MI on 7/16/2011

Pros: Covers Well, Multipurpose, Brightens, Easy To Apply, Blends Well
Best Uses: Age Spots, Discoloration, Under Eyes, Primer
Describe Yourself: Budget Buyer
Skin Tone: Fair

I really do like this product. I'm getting older and noticing more discoloration under my eyes and I wear glasses as well, which tend to make my eyes look smaller and tired. The way I use this product is: the concealer I dot under my eyes focusing on the area just under my eye and any darkness and puffiness, then blend with a finger. It has a light consistency but provides light to medium coverage. Next I dot the highlighter all around my eyes, a large circle and blend. This brightens the area and makes me look more "awake". Let it soak in and tighten and remove puffiness. I put it on before foundation but after primer.

(legalese)

My Review of Kabuki Face Brush

2011-06-26T11:21:00.001-04:00

Originally submitted at EyesLipsFace.com

This anti bacterial, synthetic haired Taklon brush is softer and more absorbent and can be used with wet or dry products. Be a professional makeup artist and create a flawless look with this brush! Our handy and easy to use Kabuki Brushes provide a light to full coverage on your face or body to en...

Incredible

By Spooky from Lansing, MI on 6/26/2011

Pros: Compact, Great Design, Soft Bristles, Functional, Easy To Use

Best Uses: Going Out, Travel, Everyday

Describe Yourself: Classic Style

I can't get over how incredibly soft this brush is! I have to keep it put up because my kids love to play with it. I use it for the e.l.f. mineral foundation and it applies it evenly and seamlessly. It's a high quality item and a terrific value! Love it, love it, love it!

(legalese)

My Review of Lip Stain

2011-06-13T06:05:00.001-04:00

Originally submitted at EyesLipsFace.com

Achieve full coverage that lasts for hours with this long-wear formula. Enjoy silky matte color or layer on the moisturizing clear gloss for a shiny look. With key Vitamins A & E your lips stay smooth all day long.

Disppointing

By Spooky from Lansing, MI on 6/13/2011

Cons: Weird consistency, Drying, Not True To Color

Describe Yourself: Classic Style

I first bought this in Fashionista but it was a very unnatural pink color (perhaps better suited to someone with cool undertones). So I thought I'd try it in Heartbreaker and that shows up as a brownish color. Someone described the consistency as "watered down clay" and I'd have to agree. It emphasizes my cracked lips and just looked plain weird on my lips. I love ELF but this, not so much.

(legalese)

Dress Dare 2011 progress

2011-05-04T18:06:00.000-04:00

Day 4 (May the fourth be with you... if I hear that one more time I'll puke). Every day I've worn a dress. I've been lucky with the weather, not too hot and not too cold. I like wearing a dress because it's just so easy to slip on; no worrying about coordinating tops and bottoms. I don't feel particularly feminine or modest. In fact it seems to be working against any sense of humility, as in "Hey! I look pretty dang good!" But, I'll keep plugging away.

Dress Dare 2011

2011-05-03T01:47:00.000-04:00

The ladies over at defining beauty have issued their Dress Dare 2011!

The Official Rules are:

Wear dresses and skirts throughout the month of May.

Exceptions: Snoozing {zzz} and Exercising.

Honor Mary, grow closer to Jesus.

Be beautiful--- be YOU!

Leave comments or email DefiningBeautyBlog@gmail.com to let us know how it is going!

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Adult ADD/ADHD

2011-05-02T21:06:00.000-04:00

About 15 years ago, my mother suggested I might suffer from ADD. I didn't think much of it. Recently, during a psych eval ordered by the court due to my custody battle for my daughter, the doctor asked me "has anyone mentioned you might have ADHD?" I was a little taken aback. So, the interwebs being all knowing I took this little test and these were my results:

Results of your

Attention Deficit Disorder Quiz

You scored a total of 87

S C O R I N G K E Y

If you scored...	You may have...
70 & up 50 - 69 35 - 49 25 - 34 0 - 24	Adult ADHD Moderate ADHD Mild ADHD Borderline ADHD No ADHD likely

I think I'll print this out and show my doc...

My Review of Complexion Perfection

2011-05-01T21:29:00.001-04:00

Originally submitted at EyesLipsFace.com

Create a balanced and radiant complexion that is beautiful and healthy. The lightweight formula evens out the skin tone and absorbs excess oil. The sheer formula brightens, mattes and neutralizes the skin. The colors are meant to be blended together as the Blue neutralizes orange, the Green neutr...

All I can say is WOW!

By Spooky from Lansing, MI on 5/1/2011

Pros: Odorless, Good Value, Oil control, Versatile, Long Lasting

Cons: Difficult to Apply

Best Uses: Sensitive Skin, Special Occasions, Daily Use, Normal Skin, Oily Skin

Describe Yourself: Classic Style

Skin Tone: Fair

Age: 35-44

I saw this the other day at a local retailer and was thrilled to see it, as I was planning to buy online (instant gratification anyone?). I first used it over tinted moisturizer and was very pleased at the results: completely controlled any shine and gave my face a wonderfully balanced look. I wore it today over my foundation and the results were even better! No settling in lines or creases, no chalkiness, just a flawless finish that lasted all day. I like this better than the HD powder! This is now going to be a major staple in my makeup routine. The one thing I did not like was it didn't come with a puff or any sort of applicator. I used the Total Face brush but considering I didn't need any touch-ups, I can live with that. I plan on going back to the store and snatch up some more, the 3 dollar price tag is just too good to pass up. Quite possibly ELF's best product.

(legalese)

My Review of High Definition Powder

2011-04-29T05:12:00.002-04:00

ppOriginally submitted at EyesLipsFace.com

The high definition loose powder creates a soft focus effect to the skin. Masks fine lines and imperfections for a radiant complexion. The incredibly soft and invisible powder is great for on-screen and everyday wear.

Must have for having your photo taken!

By Spooky from Lansing, MI on 4/29/2011

Pros: Blends Well, Easy To Apply, Silky Finish, Finely milled, Little goes a long way, Lightweight, Controls Shine
Cons: Very loose and airy, Cakes Up, A little chalky at first, Slightly wasteful
Best Uses: Normal Skin, Oily Skin
Describe Yourself: Budget Buyer

I first tried this in the winter when my skin is a tad dry, and I didn't get the insto-perfecto I was hoping for. The puff seemed to smear my foundation and transferred onto the puff, the all over face brush seems to leave particles hovering all over my bathroom. A light touch is ideal. However, I wore this when I had photos taken and my face looked AMAZING! Even my Drivers License looks fab! Now that summer is approaching I may go to this more and more for the oil control. I'm buying more just so I don't run out.

(legalese)

Been a While

2011-04-29T03:21:00.001-04:00

I customized this card adding his name

Wow, lots of stuff have happened that I just didn't have the heart to blog about. But maybe I will get back in the swing of things: Advent is over; Lent is over but now it is the Glorious Easter-tide Season! He Is Risen! He is Risen Indeed. Also, this Sunday is two-fold in importance: My precious James receives his First Holy Communion AND it is also Divine Mercy Sunday! Thanks Be to God! We are all looking with joy towards this mementos occasion. I even printed up a homemade Prayer card for James, with a picture of a boy receiving from Jesus His Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity and there is also an image of Our Lord as He appears on the Divine Mercy image. James LOVED this because he loves the Divine Mercy. He wants to go to Confession on Saturday so his soul can be "squeaky clean" (love it!). Such a wonderfully pious child! I plan on adding the prayer on the back tomorrow which will read:

My Jesus, I believe that You are truly Present in the Most Blessed Sacrament. I love you above all things and I desire to possess You within my soul. I believe because You have said it and I am ready to give my life to maintain this Truth.

And of course the date and Parish he receive. We've been practicing Communion on the Tongue since the CCD only taught about CITH (!) I reminded him in THIS family we receive on the tongue out of respect for our Lord. I also had to read over some instruction the DRE wrote up and she continually referred to the Blessed Sacrament as "bread". GAH! Parents, we MUST be vigilant in seeing to the Religious Ed of our children ESPECIALLY at your typical Novus Ordo (Ordinary Form). I even had to explain what a mortal sin was and how we should always strive to never, ever commit one and if have the misfortune of doing so to present ourselves to the Confession as soon as possible! But more importantly how receiving Our Lord is the best remedy to avoid sin. This is the child, who at 4, on a Ash Wednesday service, which was packed to the gills, including the Governor of our State, when not given a Host, loudly protested by wailing loudly "I WANT THE BODY OF PRIST!" (mispronounced "Christ"). Funny now but at the time I felt horrible, my poor child wanted Our Lord!

And so ends my update. I love that from now on all 3 of us will be able to kneel at the Altar Rail and receive Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament! So many graces!

Meditations for Advent I

2010-12-02T21:59:00.000-05:00

First Sunday of Advent (By St Alphonsus de Liguori)

"And was incarnate of the Holy Ghost, and was made man" --Symbol. Const.

Consider that God, having created the first man, in order that he might serve him and love him in this life, and be conducted afterwards to reign with him forever in Paradise, enriched him for this end with knowledge and grace. But ungrateful man rebelled against God, refusing him the obedience which he owed him in justice and gratitude; and thus, miserable sinner, was he left with all his posterity as a rebel, deprived of divine grace, and forever excluded from paradise. Behold, then, after this ruin, caused by sin, all men lost! All were living in blindness, or in the darkness of the shadow of death. The devil had dominion over them, and hell destroyed innumerable victims amongst them.
But God, seeing men reduced to this miserable state, was moved with pity, and resolved to save them. And how? He did not send an angel, a seraph; but to show to the world the immense love that he bore to these ungrateful worms, He sent His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh (Rom 8:3). He sent his own Son to become man, and to clothe himself with the same flesh as sinful men, in order that, by his suffering and death, he might satisfy the divine justice for their crimes, and thus deliver them from eternal death; and reconciling them with his divine Father, might obtain for them divine grace, and might render them worthy to enter into life eternal.
Consider, on the one hand, the immense ruin that sin brings upon souls, as it deprives them of the friendship of God and of Paradise and condemns them to an eternity of pain. And, on the other hand, consider the infinite love which God showed in this great work of the incarnation of the Word, causing his only-begotten Son to sacrifice his divine life by the hands of executioners on a cross, in a sea of sorrows and of infamy, to obtain for us pardon and life eternal. Oh, in contemplating this great mystery and this excess of divine love, how can we do otherwise than exclaim: O infinite goodness! O infinite mercy! O infinite love! for a God to become man, and to die for me!

Traditional Latin Mass Community!

2010-10-26T02:34:00.001-04:00

Every Sunday @ 11 a.m. in the Crypt at St. Mary's Cathedral in Downtown Lansing, Father Jefferey Robideau will offer Mass in the Extraordinary Form! Go and register and no, you do NOT have to leave your regular parish. Father needs helps with servers, ushers and various many other things. Let us give thanks to Our Lord Jesus Christ for this wonderful opportunity and support the Mass of the Ages!

TLM now in Lansing!

2010-10-17T06:14:00.000-04:00

Our good Bishop has allowed for a Traditional Latin Mass Community which meets every Sunday @ 11 am for the Extraordinary Form! Deo Gratias! I'll post more on this once I speak to Father Robideau who will be presiding.

A Neat and Tidy Home

2010-09-09T21:18:00.001-04:00

It's been awhile since I've posted. A lot of changes. I finally got my home back into working order. Getting rid of that extra 180 lbs of useless meat (i.e. ex-finance) helped tremendously. Some people are just "psychic vampires" and he fits that to a T. Draining the psyche of all energy and motivation and yet gives nothing in return except a vague feeling of being wanted. But when it comes down to the nitty-gritty; when Love demands more than platitudes and vague promises of devotion, the psychic vampire flees and hides and blames his victim for her needs. Cleaning has been cathartic for me as well as practical. It became messy because of my depression but then the mess added to my depression. A vicious cycle.

Bomb Threat at Lourdes

2010-08-15T15:53:00.000-04:00

Someone called in a bomb threat at the shrine at Lourdes on today of all days. Nope, no anti-Catholicism here. Move along people.

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

2010-08-15T13:52:00.000-04:00

Today we celebrate the Glorious Assumption of Our Lady into Heaven. Canon Francis Ripley in his excellent book "This Is The Faith" has this to say about it:

On November 1st, 1950, Pope Pius XII defined as a truth revealed by God that, when the course of her life on earth was finished, Our Lady was taken up body and soul into Heaven. The Feast of the Assumption has been celebrated since the 5th century according to the records we have, and countless Saints, Doctors of the Church and theologians have proclaimed their belief in the doctrine, basing their arguments on Holy Scripture, which presents to us the Mother of God as always closely united with her Divine Son and as always sharing His lot, particularly in that struggle against Satan, which, as was foretold in Genesis, was to lead to a complete victory over sin and death -- two words always joined in the writings of St Paul.

On this day I re-consecrated myself to Jesus through Mary, becoming her willing slave, ready to serve her and her Divine Son. May her Motherly protection keep me free from sin and worthy of the promises of Christ.

Journaling and Prayer

2010-08-12T05:33:00.000-04:00

Besides running my mouth (fingers?) at the keyboard all day, I am also a prolific journal writer (the old-fashion kind with pens and paper). My journals span anywhere from 2 years to 6 months depending how how small or big the journal is and how much I write. I started this particular journal in March, days before my world crashed down when my mom died. Then, in July, it crashed down again when my finance left me without any explanation or even a kiss-my-ass. So I'm so very glad this journal is coming to an end. I like fresh starts.

Anyway, I'd like to end the last 2 pages with a prayer of some sort but not being very good at improvised prayers I decided to look up "Prayers at the end of the journal". Nada. So, I will be doing a bit of research and seeing if 1) there are any other Catholic journalers (I made up that word) and if not, maybe even start one on my own. (!)

If you come across any prayers that seem appropriate or relevant then by all means, leave them in the comments!

Pray for conversions

2010-08-01T14:45:00.001-04:00

I read this week that author Anne Rice has apostatized from the Church. How unbelievably sad. Her reason basically boils down to that the Church won't conform with the world. This led me to think about other public figures who we ought to pray for their conversion. St. Therese the Little Flower adopted such a soul and her prayers were efficacious. (St. Therese of Lisieux had prayed for the conversion of the notorious and unrepentant killer Henri Pranzini in 1887 and was able to read in the newspaper of his last-minute grab for a crucifix as he approached the scaffold. He kissed the wounds of Jesus three times before being guillotined.) I thought of a person who needs such prayers would be that professor in Minnesota (?) who likes to desecrate the Blessed Sacrament. Just as St Therese made Pranzini her "project" I will make the Professor mine. Our Lady of Fatima told the little seers to pray for sinners as many go to hell because they have no one to pray for them.

Interesting Website

2010-07-28T22:00:00.009-04:00

So, I'm now off the anti-depressants, which seems contradictory consider how much I have to be depressed about (mother dying, fiance leaving) so I was looking for some natural remedies for anxiety attacks. I was mostly looking for herbal supplements and such but for some reason I plugged "catholic remedies for depression" into the search engine and got this site. Lots of interesting and useful information here; of course I balk when someone tells me I have to give up my diet Coke. The cure for depression is apparently: not enjoying anything, ever. (I know that's not what he's about). Being a Christian isn't easy; we want what we want when we want it. But, not what I want but what He wants. Jesus suffered and died on the cross for us, to save us. How will we repay Him? I balk at asceticism and austerities. It leads me to be a sourpuss and what's worse than a sourpuss Christian? Ugh. St Teresa of Avila said something like "God, save me from gloomy saints!". Anyway, back to this site. The author also seems to imply that if you don't follow his spiritual counsels, well, then, you just don't love God you lazy sinner. And it's all your parents fault. They don't love you. It's why you're such a screw-up. Then of course there's the standard "If you don't like this then that just proves how little you love God and how much you love yourself" like saying the first symptom of alcoholism is denial even if someone doesn't drink, if you deny it, then that means you must be an alcoholic. Now I'm just rambling. I know what he's trying to say; it just rubs me the wrong way. Instead of easing into a holier life, he wants you to jump in the deep end. For me this would just cause a burn-out and a not sincere conversion. I would focus too much on all the exterior practices and then the "hey look at me! I'm HOLY!" would come out. That smugness that comes with knowing you won't go to hell. And I'm pretty sure that's the exact opposite of what he's trying to do here.

Something HAS to be done

2010-06-13T01:04:00.000-04:00

After a week of one disaster after another (car dying, glasses frames broken, reduction in Child Support) the mess in the apartment is too much. I need something better than FlyLady. I cannot stand all the freaking emails. It worked for me for awhile until she started with all the "testimonals" (a/k/a "commercials") for her products. And it felt like I was constantly picking up; and I only had the 2 kids then. My main problem as my Dearest has pointed out: my irregular sleep schedule. SO. I decided to create ONE new habit for the next 21 days: go to bed at 11pm and wake up at 7am no matter what day of the week or if it's a James week or not. (Incidently this is his last week of school, and it's a Daddy week). I even set the alarm on my Palm to remind me to go to bed. And then: BABYKINS. Cry cry cry, fuss fuss fuss. Cry and fuss, fuss and cry. Cruss and Fye. So here it is, almost 1 am and I'm still up. Farming. Reading other blogs. Procrastinating going to bed. And now I'm peckish and keep thinking about the pita bread and hummus I bought today....

Amazon Associates

2010-06-12T09:50:00.002-04:00

I just signed on to the Amazon Associates program, not to make money but because I love "shopping" there. I read a lot. Or I used to. My mom got me the 12th book in the Wheel of Time series "The Gathering Storm" which I'm thinking about starting. It's a thick book and I want to make sure I can read it without a huge gap. Also, it was the last Christmas gift my mom will ever give me. I wish I had known it would be her last Christmas. We never think of those things as they are happening. I also would hate to die unexpectedly without having ever read it. My mom had checked out about 5 books the day before she died. She was an avid reader too. We like many of the same authors: Jonathon Kellerman, Robert B. Parker, Jesse Kellerman just to name a few.

Water is wet says Cardinal; everyone outraged

2010-05-31T06:01:00.000-04:00

Cardinal Marc Ouellet, Archbishop of Quebec, reiterated the Church's teaching that abortion is a moral evil, and wrong in all cases. Everyone got their knickers in a twist. I don't understand why this is a controversy. Everyone knows that the Catholic Church teaches that abortion is always wrong and a grave sin. Are they upset that His Excellency actually spoke about morals in public? (That would be my guess). Read more here, and here.

Let Us Labor to Save Our Souls

2010-05-30T02:25:00.000-04:00

An excerpt from St Alphonsus de Liguori's (1696-1787) book entitled "Preparation for Death" published in 1758 at the age of 62

My brother, in this picture of death behold yourself and what you must one day become. "Remember that dust thou art, and unto dust thou shalt return". Consider that in a few years, and perhaps in a few months or days, you will become rottenness and worms. By this thought Job became a saint. I have said to rottenness: Thou art my father: to worms, my mother, and my sister (Job 17:14).
All must end; and if, after death, you lose your soul all will be lost for you. Consider yourself already dead, says St. Laurence Justinian, since you know that you must necessarily die. If you were already dead, what would not desire to have done? Now that you have life, reflect that you will one day be among the dead. St Bonaventure says, that, to guide the vessel safely, the pilot must remain at the helm; and in like manner, to lead a good life, a man should always imagine himself at the hour of death. Says St Bernard, "Look to the sins of your youth, and be covered with shame". "Remember the sins of manhood and weep." Look to the present disorders of your life; tremble, and hasten to apply a remedy.
When St Camillus de Lellis saw the graves of the dead, he said within himself: If these return to life, what would they not do for eternal glory? And what do I do for my soul, who have time? This the saint said through humility. But my brother, you, perhaps, have reasons to fear that your are the fruitless fig-tree of which the Lord said: Behold, for these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig-tree, and I find none" (Luke 13:7) You have been in this world for more than three years; what fruit have you produced? Remember, says St Bernard, that the Lord seeks not only flowers, but fruits; that is not only good desires and resolutions, but also holy works. Learn then to profit of the time which God in His mercy gives you; do not wait until you desire time to do good, when time shall be no more. Do not wait till you are told, Time shall be no longer; depart; the time for leaving this world has arrived; what is done, is done.

At first this might seem all doom and gloom but in reality it is joy. We still have time here on earth to amend our lives! In his "Affections and Prayers" the saint writes "O Jesus my Redeemer! I thank Thee for not having taken me out of life when I was Thy enemy ... Had I died on such a day or such a night, what should be my lot for all eternity?" and later he prays to God to give him just a little time longer to do penance for those past transgressions. God certainly took him up on this offer: St Alphonsus lived to the ripe age of 91, and most of that time suffered from painful arthritis in the neck, so much so he couldn't life his head above his shoulders, his chin constantly on his chest and his beard causing a painful wound there.

When ever I have the misfortune of committing a mortal sin (if it's not one thing, it's another: either missing Sunday Mass or -ahem- other sins), I think about this prayer and cannot wait to get into the Confessional. I also look back on the time before my conversion, especially during my 20's and just marvel that the Lord put up with me for so long. And since, as well. "This is the day which the Lord hath made: let us be glad and rejoice therein." (Psalm 117:24 Douay-Rheims)

.

Are you prepared?

2010-05-25T23:19:00.003-04:00

Where will you be, dear Christian, when the debt you owe is due? Will death find you ready, strengthened by the Sacraments? Or will it catch you unawares? If you knew you only have a few hours left on this earth, what would you do with them? This question came to me in the most personal and horrible ways. My mother, my poor dear mother, spent her last few hours on earth playing games on Pogo.com. Working on getting my badge since she had already completed her own. She was in severe pain and had actually gone to the doctor's office because of it. He gave her some Motrin and told her to go to the ER if it got worse after giving her an EKG and determining she wasn't having a heart attack. Until the very last minute, she was in the computer room, my old bedroom, playing a game, while my dad sat alone in the kitchen, waiting for her to come out for dinner. They never did have dinner that night. As she emerged from the computer room, he knew straight away she was not well. He had seen that look before: the day his own mother died (which was Mother's Day. Thankfully the whole family was there so at least she spent her last few hours with family). The thought of my mother all alone, trying to ignore her immense pain, breaks my heart and the pain is unbearable.

If my mother was told she only have a few hours to live, would she have spent them playing Pogo? Maybe. Why not? She enjoyed those games but deep down I suspect she would have at least spent them with my dad and me and my children. She would have said her good-byes and made sure we knew everything. Since this didn't happen, my dad and I ~~were~~ are lost. Shocked and struck with grief, we hadn't a clue what to do. It was the sort of thing my mom took care of. (Thankfully my mother's brother and sister-in-law stepped in and helped). I'm trying to remember the last time I saw her. And if I told her I loved or at least thanked her for the kind act she was providing me at the time, which shamefully I cannot recall what it was.

How will you have spent the last few precious moments of your life? St. James says our life is "a vapour which appeareth for a little while and afterwards shall vanish away." (James 4:15) We all die, and like waters that return no more, we fall down into the earth (2 Samuel 14:14). St Alphonsus tells us that "there is nothing more precious than time; but there is nothing less esteemed and more despised by men of the world". This is what St Bernard deplores when he says "Nothing is is more precious than time, but nothing is regarded more cheaply. The days of salvation pass away, and no one reflects that day which has passed away from him can never return". Think of all those moments where we were just "killing time". It is gone, never to return. The hours you've killed will return to haunt you on your deathbed (if you should be so lucky).

Empire State Building honors Commies but not Saints (or Blesseds)

2010-05-13T17:32:00.003-04:00

Bill Donahue petitioned the Empire State Building to light the building with blue and white in honor of her 100th birthday which is being commemorated by the US Postal Service by issuing a stamp featuring her. (see here and here). They refused. Without offering any explanation. Why? They honored some Chinese Communist who was responsible for the deaths of millions and 60 years of oppression of an entire nation. Sign the petition to support Bl. Mother Teresa.

My first question is why the hell would they honor a Communist Dictator to begin with. Fox News is the only news website that I could find that is covering this story. (not including independent blogs) What story? There's no story here. At least not according to the ESB spokesperson. Jeffrey Scott Shapiro did a little digging, as journalists are supposed to do. Some of his expericences:

This morning I called the Empire State building so they could explain why they decided to honor a communist state responsible for causing the death of millions of their own people, but not a Catholic nun who won the Nobel Peace Prize who spent 45 years saving lives. After all, at the time of her death, Mother Teresa’s charity was operating 610 missions in 123 countries.
Although I called several times, I could not reach Melanie Maasch, Director of Brand Development and Public Relations, but I did receive a call from Daniel Hernandez, a public relations representative working for an outside firm hired by the Empire State Building. Mr. Hernandez insisted that “there is no issue here,” and told me that his firm had been directed not to “comment on anything involving this story.”
I told Mr. Hernandez I disagreed with him that there was no issue here, and that in a free society like the United States it was the free press that decides whether or not there is an issue or a story to be written, not public relations officers.

“Obviously it’s an issue or I wouldn’t be calling you,” I told him during a telephone interview this morning.
“Who decides when to illuminate the building?”
“There’s a committee.”
“Who’s on that committee and how many people are on it?”
“I can’t tell you that.”
“Why? I’m just asking a general question about how the Empire State Building works.”
“I know, but you’re asking in relation to this story, the story about the lights, and as I told you, we’re not commenting on that story because we don’t feel there’s any issue here.”
“Don’t you think that’s kind of ironic?
“What do you mean?
“Well, you won’t respond to the free press about a story that accuses your organization of honoring a dictatorship. I mean, I kind of feel like I’m dealing with a dictatorship now. You’re telling me – a journalist – there’s no story as if you can dictate the news to the press and then you refuse to tell me anything as if you’re above explaining it.”
“I’m only telling you what I’ve been directed to say.”
“But there has to be an answer, there has to be a reason for all of this. Why can’t you just tell me and justify the committee’s position?”
“I’m only telling you what I’ve been directed to say.”
When Mr. Hernandez finally hung up, I stared dumbfounded at my BlackBerry Storm and wondered if I’d just lost contact with a spokesman for the Empire State Building management committee or the People’s Republic of China’s Central Committee. (read the full piece here).

This is what I mean when I say we are heading to Hell in a Handbasket.

Who would YOU honor?

On Being A Christian

2010-04-28T02:41:00.000-04:00

I went to Mass today and the First reading was from the Acts of the Apostles, where, at Antioch they were first called "Christians". (Acts 11:19-26). And Father's sermon was about what it meant exactly to be a Christian. And he brought up a pet peeve of mine when I hear a Catholic say "I'm not Christian, I'm Catholic". I always want to do a facepalm at that. But the point that most struck me is how Christianity is not a "closed" group. We want everyone to be a Christian! We want everyone to share in the Joy of following Jesus Christ. We want everyone to go to Heaven. It made me think more about spreading the "Good News" rather than the sourpuss, exclusive, us vs them (you know, sinners) attitude that I myself have found myself harboring.

John answered him, saying: Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, who followeth not us: and we forbade him. But Jesus said: Do not forbid him. For there is no man that doth a miracle in my name and can soon speak ill of me. For he that is not against you is for you. Mark 9:38-40 DRV

And he said to them: Go ye into the whole world and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved: but he that believeth not shall he condemned. Mark 16:15-16 DRV

frustration

2010-04-26T14:50:00.000-04:00

Trying to set up my blog dedicated the to Holy Souls in Purgatory but nothing seems to be going right. I can't come up with a title; I don't care for the templates that are available. They're too "jaunty" or so dark you cant read the text.. Argh. More rants to come. Had an idea.

New Blogs

2010-04-26T06:12:00.000-04:00

I'm creating two new blogs dedicated to one cause each. First "The Rosary Blog" the other is dedicated to the Holy Souls. I may transfer a lot of the info I have on this blog to that one. I was sitting here thinking(!) and realized that the Rosary needs it's own page too. This might be a long, tedious process but I like tedious as long as there is something good out of it!

"Help the Holy Souls"

2010-04-25T05:48:00.004-04:00

I'm adding some pages I call "Help the Holy Souls". These are prayers, or pictures or instructions on how to help the Suffering Souls in Purgatory. I've always felt a devotion to them but lately I feel an urgent need to spread the word about them and to help them as much as possible lately; most likely because of my mom dying. My mom wasn't Catholic or religious at all really; but I pray with confidence she will enter into the Glory of Heaven if only I pray long and hard enough and for ALL the Holy Souls.

UK Officials Mock Pope in Memo

2010-04-25T05:09:00.000-04:00

I came acrosss this piece via Spiritdaily. As if we need even more reasons to Pray for the Holy Father. My comments are in green, bolds are mine as usual and I'm probably not going to quote the whole thing anyway. Read the full article here.

The astonishing proposals, leaked to The Sunday Telegraph, were contained in secret papers drawn up earlier this month by civil servants following a 'brainstorm’.
The ideas, included in a memo headed 'The ideal visit would see ...’, ridiculed the Catholic Church’s teachings including its opposition to abortion, homosexual behaviour and contraception. Many appeared to be deliberately provocative rather than a serious attempt to plan an itinerary for the September visit.(Okay, SSDD what else?)

The proposals, which were then circulated among key officials in Downing Street and Whitehall, also include the Pope opening an abortion ward; (sick) spending the night in a council flat in Bradford; ( I don't think this would phase the Pope one bit actually) doing forward rolls with children to promote healthy living; and even performing a duet with the Queen.(that might actually be cool. Pope Benedict is an excellent pianist.)

...snip...

Recipients of the memo were furious at its content and an investigation was launched. One senior official was found responsible and has been transferred to other duties. ( Nobody, I mean NOBODY ever gets sacked in the UK unless it's some poor working class person who only made an honest mistake, like, dropping a tenner and getting a fine for 50 quid.)

“The individual responsible has been transferred to other duties. He has been told orally and in writing that this was a serious error of judgement and has accepted this view. (oooooh, that will learn him!)

A Foreign Office spokesman said: “This is clearly a foolish document that does not in any way reflect UK Government or Foreign Office policy or views. Many of the ideas in the document are clearly ill-judged, naive and disrespectful. (Well, it's certainly the views of someone in the UK gov't and Foreign Office, otherwise it wouldn't have been written!)

snip

There is understood to be increasing unease at the Vatican over the level of hostility that the Pope is likely to face in Britain, with protests and even threats of arrest from secularists. The disclosure of the secret proposals is bound to deepen concerns and cause dismay among the country’s four million Catholics.(Gee, ya think?)

Prayer for Pope Bendict XVI

Lord, source of eternal life and truth, give to your shepherd, Benedict, a spirit of courage and right judgment, a spirit of knowledge and love. By governing with fidelity those entrusted to his care, may he, as successor to the Apostle Peter and Vicar of Christ, build your Church into a sacrament of unity, love and peace for all the world. Amen.

V. Let us pray for Benedict, the pope.
R. May the Lord preserve him, give him a long life, make him blessed upon the earth, and not hand him over to the power of his enemies.
V. May your hand be upon your holy servant.
R. And upon your son, whom you have anointed.

Patriots

2010-04-24T15:23:00.000-04:00

I was going to write something in here yesterday about something political.. oh I remember! The Southern Poverty Law Center had "identified" 40 "patriots" who they think some "patriots" should be "watched". First off: their definition of "patriot" is: "people who generally believe that the federal government is an evil entity that is engaged in a secret conspiracy to impose martial law, herd those who resist into concentration camps, and force the United States into a socialistic 'New World Order.'" The SPLC also considers "traditional Catholicism" as at "hate group" including, but not limited to the Fatima Crusade and Catholic Family News, and The Remnant! **insert eyeroll here*

Glenn Beck tops the list, natch. WND's Joseph Farah also makes the list and has this to say:

WND Editor Joseph Farah is described as "a leading fomenter [sic] of the baseless claim that President Obama was not born in Hawaii, but in Africa, and so is not qualified to be president." It also says he could not be reached for comment.
"Could not be reached for comment?" asked Farah in a response column. "Let me state unequivocally and for the record, the gutless, little cowards at the Southern Poverty Law Center with their $300 million annual budget never had the courage to call me, leave a message or send an e-mail! I would have been amused to answer the accusations of [SPLC Founder Morris] Dees or one of his little minions. Anyone who knows me understands how much I like to mix it up with those who disagree with me. Could not be reached for comment, indeed. Larceny and cowardice are the trademarks of Dees and company.

The full list of these eeeeeeeeeeeevil patriots can be found here For some reason I didn't make the list. Oh well.

Stuff

2010-04-20T15:31:00.005-04:00

My dad has the daunting task of , eventually clearing out my mother's earthly possessions. The day before she died she had gone shopping and my dad gave me some of the food in the fridge because he wasn't going to eat it. He gave me some other stuff too that was what my mom would consume. I saw 5 bottles of Tonic Water in the cupboard; they were probably on sale and she stocked up. This made me think of all the things I "save" so I don't run out. Like lotion or shampoo or toothpaste. I'll never finish that last bit up "just in case" In case of what? I don't know. but my mom never got a chance to finish reading her book or to make a sandwich wrap.
So, what does this mean? I decided to use up things instead of having them laying around. This doesn't mean I'm going to be wasteful but, if I bought it, I'll use it. I'm especially bad at saving make-up. I have tons and tons of make-up, 1/2 full 1/3 full, unopened, or a microscopic amount.

Random Thoughts and Musings Part 1

2010-04-16T01:16:00.004-04:00

Laying in bed for over an hour and couldn't get anywhere near sleep. I had a lot of thoughts and themes going through my head and thought I would bless you all (!) with them. The first subject is about time. *WARNING: THESE MAY BE RAMBLING AND DISJOINTED AND MAY NOT MAKE MUCH SENSE IN THE LONG RUN*

TIME

"Time is fleeting" Thus begins the iconic "Time Warp" from Rocky Horror Picture Show. A pithy saying that, for someone my age really has lost any meaning. We never think of those lost minutes, hours, days, weeks and years that slip by so stealthily. What I wouldn't give to have another 5 minutes with my mother, to hug her and tell her how much I love her and that she was a good mom and to apologize for all the shit I put her through. What would I do if I could have a whole day or week? I'd make sure I'd get her recipe for potato salad and ask her important questions about finances and get her family history and make every second count.
I am a master at wasting time. If I'm not wasting it on teh interwebs then I'm wasting it sleeping when I should be doing something constructive and meaningful: spending as much time with my children as possible, keeping a tidy and organized home, giving my children instructions that they will need to be productive (unlike me), and appreciating all that the love of my life, my finance, does for me and how much he loves me and try, at least in part, to return some of that back to him; to give God the due Worship He deserves and to thank Him for giving me this very second in which to tell Him I love him and of my gratitude. God doesn't owe us the next minute or even the next second. Every moment is a gift from Him. He has given it to us to do with it what we will, with our own free will. Once it's gone, it's gone forever, and we can never get that moment back. Our days are so full of things that, in the end, don't really matter. Which, sort of leads me to the subject of "stuff".

So much crap

2010-04-15T16:13:00.003-04:00

There is so much negative garbage in the news today, I haven't the mental energy to deal with it all. My mother's Memorial Service is on Saturday. Yesterday I spent 4 hours with my aunt and uncle looking at old photos and videos. I was in a fairly good mood until I went to lay down for bed and the enormity of the loss hit me like a truck. And since then I've been in a funk and down in the depths of sadness, missing my mother terribly. My only consolation is prayer, for thanks be to God I'm not in a state of dryness and confusion. I've been praying the Rosary and Divine Mercy Chaplet for the repose of her soul. I've been reading good religious books. I've remained in a state of grace in order to do these things. But on the flip-side, this alienates my Jewish finance and he's pulling away -emotionally and physically- from me at the one time I need him the most.

Spiritual Bouquet for Pope Benedict XVI

2010-04-15T02:25:00.004-04:00

The Institute of Christ the King Sovereign Priest is preparing to send a spiritual bouquet to His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI. Via an online form, the faithful may contribute to this bouquet, along with others throughout the world, which will be presented directly to His Holiness.

All are invited to contribute Holy Masses, Rosaries, novenas, Holy Hours, or works of charity for our Holy Father at a time in which he is being unjustly attacked.

The Institute is especially encouraging prayers and sacrifices during a special Novena (PDF) beginning on Saturday, April 24, the 5th anniversary of the inauguration of Pope Benedict XVI, through May 2, which is the first Sunday of the month of Mary, Mother of the Church.

Spiritual Bouquet Form »

Amid the anti-Catholic sentiment in the media of today, please express your fidelity to the Vicar of Christ on earth in this hour when he is unjustly attacked. Pray for our beloved Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, that God may continue to grant him an abundance of spiritual wisdom and strength to guide the Barque of Peter through the difficult waters of our times.

Desiring to show our filial support and gratitude to our Holy Father, the Institute of Christ the King wishes to offer an abundant spiritual bouquet to His Holiness. Your prayers are needed! To participate in this spiritual bouquet, please use our online form below. Simply indicate the number and types of prayers you wish to offer. This spiritual bouquet will then be presented directly to His Holiness.

Novena for the Pope Day 3

2010-04-13T23:57:00.002-04:00

PRAYER FOR POPE BENEDICT XVI

Lord, source of eternal life and truth,

give to your shepherd, Benedict, a spirit

of courage and right judgment, a spirit

of knowledge and love. By governing

with fidelity those entrusted to his care,

may he, as successor to the Apostle

Peter and Vicar of Christ, build your

Church into a sacrament of unity, love

and peace for all the world. Amen.

V/ Let us pray for Benedict, the pope.

R/ May the Lord preserve him,

give him a long life,

make him blessed upon the earth,

and not hand him over

to the power of his enemies.

V/ May your hand

be upon your holy servant.

R/ And upon your son,

whom you have anointed.

Our Father… Hail Mary… Glory Be…

St Justin, martyr

2010-04-13T23:53:00.002-04:00

via Father Zuhlsdorf:

There is then brought to the president of the brethren bread and a cup of wine mixed with water; and he taking them, gives praise and glory to the Father of the universe, through the name of the Son and of the Holy Ghost, and offers thanks at considerable length for our being counted worthy to receive these things at His hands. And when he has concluded the prayers and thanksgivings, all the people present express their assent by saying Amen. This word Amen answers in the Hebrew language to genoito [so be it]. And when the president has given thanks, and all the people have expressed their assent, those who are called by us deacons give to each of those present to partake of the bread and wine mixed with water over which the thanksgiving was pronounced, and to those who are absent they carry away a portion. And this food is called among us Euxaristia, of which no one is allowed to partake but the man who believes that the things which we teach are true, and who has been washed with the washing that is for the remission of sins, and unto regeneration, and who is so living as Christ has enjoined. For not as common bread and common drink do we receive these; but in like manner as Jesus Christ our Saviour, having been made flesh by the Word of God, had both flesh and blood for our salvation, so likewise have we been taught that the food which is blessed by the prayer of His word, and from which our blood and flesh by transmutation are nourished, is the flesh and blood of that Jesus who was made flesh. For the apostles, in the memoirs composed by them, which are called Gospels, have thus delivered unto us what was enjoined upon them; that Jesus took bread, and when He had given thanks, said, "This do ye in remembrance of Me, this is My body; "and that, after the same manner, having taken the cup and given thanks, He said, "This is My blood; "and gave it to them alone.

First Apology 65-66

Novena for the Pope Day 2

2010-04-12T17:10:00.002-04:00

Day 2 of the Novena for the Holy Father!

PRAYER FOR POPE BENEDICT XVI

Lord, source of eternal life and truth,

give to your shepherd, Benedict, a spirit

of courage and right judgment, a spirit

of knowledge and love. By governing

with fidelity those entrusted to his care,

may he, as successor to the Apostle

Peter and Vicar of Christ, build your

Church into a sacrament of unity, love

and peace for all the world. Amen.

V/ Let us pray for Benedict, the pope.

R/ May the Lord preserve him,

give him a long life,

make him blessed upon the earth,

and not hand him over

to the power of his enemies.

V/ May your hand

be upon your holy servant.

R/ And upon your son,

whom you have anointed.

Our Father… Hail Mary… Glory Be…

Novena for the Holy Father

2010-04-11T21:25:00.004-04:00

I just found this from the website Catholic Dads about a Novena for the Holy Father:

The Knights of Columbus are encouraging everyone in the Church to pray a novena for the Holy Father starting today, Divine Mercy Sunday, and continuing through December 19th, the anniversary of his election to the Chair of St. Peter.

This novena is especially needed. In reviewing the news articles and the astounding poor quality of the journalism involved, it is safe to say that the ongoing attacks against the Holy Father have nothing to do with with finding justice and truth. The intent is to weaken the Holy Father and the Church; to weaken our faith. The attacks are against us faithful Catholics and our devotion to the Risen Lord and his Church here on earth. (emphasis mine)

I'm glad I'm finding these things. The website for the Novena is here (make sure to watch the video too). I see the novena cards are in the evil PDF format, so I will simply write out the text here. If you can, print these out and give them to your Catholic (and non-Catholic friends).

PRAYER FOR POPE BENEDICT XVI

Lord, source of eternal life and truth,
give to your shepherd, Benedict, a spirit
of courage and right judgment, a spirit
of knowledge and love. By governing
with fidelity those entrusted to his care,
may he, as successor to the Apostle
Peter and Vicar of Christ, build your
Church into a sacrament of unity, love
and peace for all the world. Amen.
V: Let us pray for Benedict, the pope.
R: May the Lord preserve him,
give him a long life,
make him blessed upon the earth,
and not hand him over
to the power of his enemies.
V: May your hand
be upon your holy servant.
R: And upon your son,
whom you have anointed.
Our Father… Hail Mary… Glory Be…
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS

In Solidarity With Our Holy Father

The Time to Pray is NOW

2010-04-11T21:12:00.004-04:00

With all these recent attacks on Holy Catholic Church, and His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, it has occured to me that Satan is unleashing his fury in an onslaught, a pummeling. Prayer is the best weapon against these attacks of Satan and his minions (in this case, the mainstream media). Gossip is being written as fact; accusations are being asserted has been proven already with out any sort of fact checking or- God-forbid, any actually investigative journalism. The Holy Father is being smeared constantly with lies and intentionally misleading information. I cannot sit by at let this happen. PRAY FOR THE POPE AND FOR HOLY MOTHER CHURCH!

Saint Michael, For Protection of the Church

O glorious St. Michael, guardian and defender of the Church of Jesus Christ, come to the assistance of this Church, against which the powers of hell are unchained, guard with especial care her august Head, and obtain that for him and for us the hour of triumph may speedily arrive. O glorious Archangel St. Michael, watch over us during life, defend us against the assaults of the demon, assist us especially at the hour of death; obtain for us a favorable judgment, and the happiness of beholding God face to face for endless ages. Amen.

Prayer to Defeat the Work of Satan

O Divine Eternal Father, in union with your Divine Son and the Holy Spirit, and through the Immaculate Heart of Mary, I beg You to destroy the Power of your greatest enemy -- the evil spirits.

Cast them into the deepest recesses of hell and chain them there forever! Take possession of your Kingdom which You have created and which is rightfully yours.

Heavenly Father, give us the reign of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

I repeat this prayer out of pure love for You with every beat of my heart and with every breath I take.

Amen.

Richard Dawkins wants to arrest the Pope

2010-04-11T15:53:00.004-04:00

Here's some "news". Rabid atheist Richard "Dick" Dawkins wants to arrest the Pope when the Holy Father visits the UK this fall.

From the Times Online UK:

RICHARD DAWKINS, the atheist campaigner, is planning a legal ambush to have the Pope arrested during his state visit to Britain “for crimes against humanity”.
Dawkins and Christopher Hitchens, the atheist author, have asked human rights lawyers to produce a case for charging Pope Benedict XVI over his alleged cover-up of sexual abuse in the Catholic church.

The pair believe they can exploit the same legal principle used to arrest Augusto Pinochet, the late Chilean dictator, when he visited Britain in 1998.

One word: yawn. Usually stuff like this makes me mad. This time it's just makes me feel sorry for Mr Dawkins and Mr Hitchens. What poor lonely black souls they must have.

Divine Mercy Sunday Part Deux

2010-04-11T15:29:00.005-04:00

Our Lord to Saint Faustina:

Encourage souls to say the Chaplet which I have given you ... Whoever shall recite it will receive great mercy at the hour of death ... When they say this chaplet in the presence of the dying, I will stand between My Father and the dying person, not as the just Judge but as the Merciful Savior ... Priests will recommend it to sinners as their last hope of salvation. Even if there were a sinner most hardened, if he were to recite this chaplet only once, he would receive grace from My infinite mercy. I desire to grand unimaginable graces to those souls who trust in My mercy ... through the Chaplet you will obtain everything, if what you ask for is compatible with My will.

. (Diary 687, 1541, 1731)

HOW TO PRAY THE DIVINE MERCY CHAPLET

The Chaplet of Mercy is recited using ordinary rosary beads of five decades.

1. Begin with the Sign of the Cross, 1 Our Father, 1 Hail Mary and The Apostles Creed.

2. Then on the Our Father Beads say the following:
Eternal Father, I offer You the Body and Blood, Soul and Divinity of Your dearly beloved Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.

3. On the 10 Hail Mary Beads say the following:
For the sake of His sorrowful Passion, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

(Repeat step 2 and 3 for all five decades).

4. Conclude with (three times):
Holy God, Holy Mighty One, Holy Immortal One, have mercy on us and on the whole world.

For more information about the Divine Mercy Chaplet or Image, visit the Marians of the Immaculate Conception

On a more personal note, I did attend Mass and received Communion. On Saturday I went to Confession. I feel like what I can only describe as "Xanax for the soul". I feel peaceful, calm and quiet and reflective.

Happy Birthday Papa

2010-04-10T23:24:00.003-04:00

Today was my father's 73rd birthday. It was subdued yet strangely calm and non-stressful. There were some very sad moments for me and my dad; it was the first birthday of a long line of birthdays, holidays and other family occasions without my mom. I missed her so much the past 2 days, I've barely been functional. Add to that a massive row with Jeremy about stupid shit (religion). When I woke up this morning though, I felt much better and more clear-headed and not nearly as tearful and zombie like. I made it to Confession for Divine Mercy Sunday tomorrow and cannot wait to have the past 18 months washed clean away; gone, kaput.

Divine Mercy Sunday

2010-04-09T08:48:00.004-04:00

This Sunday is Divine Mercy Sunday:
Our Lord Jesus said, "The soul that will go to Confession and receive Holy Communion shall obtain complete forgiveness of sins and punishment. On that day all the divine floodgates through which graces flow are opened. Let no soul fear to draw near to Me, even though its sins be as scarlet.... Mankind will not have peace until it turns to the Fount of My Mercy." (699) The plenary indulgence that was issued for Divine Mercy Sunday does not change the promises of Our Lord. Rather it provides the Church's highest mark of approval and endorsement and gives souls more time to go to Confession.

The Divine Mercy Image:
The two rays denote Blood and Water. The pale ray stands for the Water which makes souls righteous. The red ray stands for the Blood which is the life of souls. These two rays issued forth from the depths of My tender mercy when My agonized Heart was opened by a lance on the Cross. Happy is the one who will dwell in their shelter, for the just hand of God shall not lay hold of him (299). By means of this image I shall grant many graces to souls. It is to be a reminder of the demands of My mercy, because even the strongest faith is of no avail without works (742).

The Divine Mercy devotion is one of my favorite devotions. I have received so many graces from this devotion and the accompanying Chaplet. The Chaplet can be said on any set of ordinary Rosary beads:
All information about the Divine Mercy devotion can be found from the Marians of the Immaculate Conception .

A New Direction AGAIN

2010-04-09T08:15:00.005-04:00

I haven't posted in a while. So many changes have happened, some wonderful, some traumatic. My main dilemma is if to start a new religious blog or to just start posting more personal religious things here. This blog has gone through many changes over the years and I've neglected it more often than not. I doubt I have any readers left (all 2 of you). But, my beloved finance, Jeremy, purchased for me a net book (which I love love love. Almost as much as I love him), and this has rekindled my blogging spirit.. SO, while there are happy and joyous occasions, there is sorrow and grief. My dear mother passed away 2 weeks ago suddenly, most likely of a heart attack. My pain and suffering has only multiplied dramatically in the 2 weeks she's been gone. I just miss her more and more.

So, while I might not change the name of the blog (because it still rings true) but it might go from the joys of family and the depths of the despair of losing a parent. My mother was only 66 years old. Never in a million years did we think she wouldn't survive my dad, who is almost 8 years older. It was a running joke in our family.

Too Political, Z Chat and more

2009-09-26T01:40:00.003-04:00

I noticed I'm getting a little too political lately. I really don't know much about politics or who is right and who is wrong. But, this blog is about how it seems we're falling down the rabbit hole. I'm just not that informed or educated about politics. So, everything you read here is naturally only my limited opinion about what I see as either bad or good in the world and the Church.

I just had a blast over on WDTPRS Z chat with Father Zuhlsdorf. It reminded me of the old Fisheaters chat we used to have. Father played music and we had a lot of fun with that too.

I can't remember what "the more" was to be about. Sorry.

What is the definition of creepy?

2009-09-24T11:38:00.001-04:00

This:

~~Jesus~~ Barack loves the little children,
All the children of the world.
Red and yellow, black and white,
All are equal in His sight,
Barack Hussein Obama

The fact that the words these kids are chanting come from a hymn entitled "Jesus Loves The Little Children" should creep anyone out.

moods

2009-09-15T05:50:00.002-04:00

fuck it. fuck it all.

It's Almost Here!

2009-08-22T18:17:00.003-04:00

We're getting closer to the new English translation of the Mass! Father Z characterizes the current translation as "God, you are so big. Help us to be big like you". And I couldn't agree more. There's been a lot of debate about the new (and more accurate) translation. Apparently some Bishops think their flock are a bunch of dimwits and won't understand such big words such as "ineffable" or "consubstanial". The Bishops of the United States have put up a website about the new translation. They offers up some examples of the changes, including:

current text:
Priest: The Lord be with you.
People: And also with you.

New text:
Priest: The Lord be with you.
People: And with your spirit.

Significant changes to the Gloria:
current text:
Glory to God in the highest,
and peace to his people on earth.
Lord God, heavenly King,
almighty God and Father,
we worship you, we give you thanks, we praise you for your glory.

new text:
Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to people of good will. We praise you, we bless you, we adore you, we glorify you,
we give you thanks for your great glory,

And what looks like a ton of other changes. Many are exactly as they appear in the English side of my 1962 Mass Missal. There are also many changes for the priest as well. I first heard about the new translation right after being Baptized, in 2002. Now I wonder how many parishes around these parts will actually follow this new and improved translation? How many will just ignore it, they way they ignore decrees of the Pope? Too many, unfortunately. And, I hope I'm wrong, but I doubt the Bishop will do anything about it.

ObamaCare: Just like the Post Office!

2009-08-21T04:38:00.004-04:00

I feel like we're living in a cuckoo clock in this country.
Everyone is talking about "health-care reform". Obama and The Hopey Changey Gang, want a "public option", that is government run health care. And we all know just how darn efficient the government runs things: public school, DMV, Ma Bell (remember when the gov't ran the telephone company? Awful), the Post Office... Ah wait, yes. The Post Office. The Post Office is such a mass of inefficiency and incompetence that it's own workers finally lose it and "go postal". So, anyway, some people are worried that private insurance will go the way of the dodo and everyone will be stuck with ObamaCare. This is what Dear Leader says:

“I mean, if you think about, if you think about it, UPS (United Parcel Service) and FedEx are doing just fine, right? No, they are,” said Obama. “It's the Post Office that's always having problems.”

Yes, that's right Mr President. The GOVERNMENT RUN POST OFFICE IS ALWAYS HAVING PROBLEMS. Isn't that basically what the eeeeevil, raaaaacist, un-American Mob have been saying all along? Shouldn't this be a huge red-flag?

Naturally, the Post Office had it's fweeings hurt.

“On behalf of 35,000 members of our association, I am writing to express our collective disappointment that you chose to use the Postal Service as a scapegoat and an example of inefficiency,” Keating wrote.

“Your negative comments on the Postal Service--without knowledge of the facts--was not only a disservice to members of our organization, but to all the postal employees,” he added.

“Employees of the Postal Service are largely represented by unions [Well there's your problem] and management associations, all of whom strongly supported your candidacy last year,” the letter said. “For our support we do not expect any special consideration. However, we would like to be treated fairly and not have our current situation misrepresented, especially by the commander-in-chief.”

All quotes are from this article from CNSNews.com

Lanny Davis wants to clear things up

2009-08-06T08:29:00.003-04:00

Yesterday I posted a link to a post at Michelle Malkin's blog, which linked to a Politico statement by Lanny Davis. Mr Davis sent MM an e-mail to clear up any misunderstandings about his position and opinions.

From: Davis, Lanny J.
Sent: Wed Aug 05 22:21:11 2009

To readers of Michelle Malkin’s blog who responded to my post on Politico earlier in the morning:

I received a number of thoughtful emails and wanted to express my appreciation to those who communicated their sincere concerns. There was a misimpression that I was in favor of suppression or discouragement of dissent concerning Democratic positions on national health care issues at congressional town hall meetings. This was not my intent. I do not wish in any way investigate, photo, or suppress the opinions of people who show up to these meetings regarding concerns about Democratic health care proposals. Indeed, I welcome that because we need more debate on this important issue.

My post specifically criticized only those who shout down and prevent others from speaking. Indeed, I specifically expressed my respect in that post for those who are genuinely concerned about the health care proposals.

Finally, some sincere people who communicated with me asked whether I had or would condemn those on the left who disrupted meetings or shouted down speakers on the conservative side of the spectrum. The answer is: Yes I would and I have. Publicly.

I believe that thoughtful and civil people on the left and the right share a desire for debate and have respect for other people’s opinions. This is fundamental to a civil society and our great democracy. In my post, I only wished to protest strongly those who believe it is acceptable to attend a meeting for the purpose of disrupting and preventing honest and vigorous debate.

I take the same position if it is people on the left side of the spectrum who use such tactics as those on the right side.

Sincerely,

Lanny Davis

Obama wants YOU....

2009-08-06T01:48:00.002-04:00

...to snitch on dissenters.

From the White House website blog:

There is a lot of disinformation about health insurance reform out there, spanning from control of personal finances to end of life care. These rumors often travel just below the surface via chain emails or through casual conversation. Since we can’t keep track of all of them here at the White House, we’re asking for your help. If you get an email or see something on the web about health insurance reform that seems fishy, send it to flag@whitehouse.gov.

That's right Comrades! If you see or hear any criticism of Dear Leader's reforms, let him know! He can't keep track of all of the dissenters and needs our help!

In the meantime, Lanny Davis wants those who show up at town hall meetings and express their mistrust of Obama-Care and/or Dear Leader Himself, photographed and investigated. You know, just to make sure you aren't a shill for the insurance companies. Which they must be because they're just dressed too nice.

discontented

2009-07-29T18:57:00.005-04:00

Lately I've been avoiding my once staple "trad" forums. For one thing, my favorite, which is hosted by people who I consider dear friends, seems to have been over-run with young, 20-something year old males who think they know everything; from marriage to women's bodily functions and post excessive amounts, insinuating themselves into every. single. thread. Then there are the cynical shitheads who mock anyone and everyone who pleads for charity. These are older, married men that are obviously very angry about something or other. There's never discussion anymore, only argument of stupid, petty things like ladies wearing trousers and bitching and moaning how bad the Novus Ordo (which is it, but can we shut up about it already? isn't that why we're trads?) is and going out of their way to find something to be offended about. Anything they are not familiar with or isn't to their liking is derided as "liberal, modernist, Marxist, feministic crap". They act as if never before have there been bad Catholics, irreverence at Mass, sin and indifference to religion as today. Is it worse today? Maybe, but it certainly isn't new. I'm reading a book right now, written in 1867 (or thereabouts) which laments how cold and indifferent and disrespectul people are towards the Blessed Sacrament. How hardly anyone respects the Mass and how many graces are lost for Masses unheard. 1867 not 1967. I have more thoughts on this but want to stew them in my mind a bit more.

Forget MJ; Billy Mays was da man

2009-06-28T15:41:00.005-04:00

I just learned that Billy Mays died this morning. He was 50. Bow-Wow and I just started getting into the show "Pitchmen" on Discovery Channel and Billy was our favorite. I had always found him slightly entertaining before, but "Pitchmen" showed just what a swell guy he was. My heart goes out to his family; I cannot imagine the grief they're going through. Requiescat in pace Billy. You will be greatly missed.

Oh, Puh-LEEEZE

2009-06-06T17:20:00.004-04:00

This is really getting out of hand. Soon, we will be required to have statues of Dear Leader in our homes and watch his nightly "messages". Blugh.

Evan Thomas claims Obama is "sort of" God. Newsbusters has the video and transcript. Some gems:

THOMAS: ...I mean in a way Obama’s standing above the country, above – above the world, he’s sort of God. He’s-
MATTHEWS: Yeah.

Chris Matthews is such a whore for Obama, he'd gladly wipe the President's butt with his tongue.

Later Thomas posits Dear Leader as Dear Teacher:

THOMAS: ...He's the teacher. He is going to say, ‘now, children, stop fighting and quarreling with each other.’ And he has a kind of a moral authority that he – he can – he can do that-

"Moral authority". Uh-huh. Yeah. Sure. But the President is "comfortable" with having a virulent anti-Catholic on his "faith based advisory council" (whatever that is). Disagreeing with the Pope is one thing being a Protestant and all, but calling the Knight's of Columbus "foot soliders" in the "army of opression"? Catholics would be better off having Jack Chick on this council. Seriously. Father Z asks an excellent question: "Imagine a person saying those sorts of things about Jews or Muslims. Then try to imagine a President, of either party, appointing such a person to any position in the administration." Yeah, I couldn't either. But, then again, Obama is "sorta" God anyway, so it's all good, right?

Governments to Catholic Church: Shut up or else

2009-06-05T10:10:00.003-04:00

Three years ago, the City of San Francisco (named after St Francis of Assisi, by the way) passed a resolution that officially condemned the teachings of the Catholic Faith, calling them "hateful", "callous" and "insulting" and urged Catholics to disobey the teachings of the church. Catholics, particularly Bill Donahue of the Catholic League, represented by the Thomas Moore Law Center took exception to this resolution naturally and sued saying it violated the First Amendment. The 9th Circuit Court heard the case and sided with San Francisco. The Catholic League is appealing. Can you imagine if any government officially condemned the religious teachings of say, oh, Islam? Yeah, me neither. In essence: shut up Catholics. You are officially second-class citizens.

Over in Connecticut, legislators thought it would be a good idea to take control of the Catholic Church's finances and structuring (Bill 1098). Catholics, including the Bishops, thought this was not such a good idea, and let their reps in the state gov't know it by protesting on the steps of the State Capitol. Well, the authorities over in the "Constitution State" (ha!) thought the Catholics got a little too uppity and are now saying the Diocese of Bridgeport violated lobbying laws, a.k.a shut up. So +Bishop William Lori is suing claiming Establishment Clause violations. You go Bish!

In New York, New York Asslemblywoman Margaret Markey made a not so veiled threat against the Bishop of Brooklyn by saying he should "walk very cautiously" lest the Church loses it's tax-exempt status. In other words: shut up. The Bishop had previously spoke against Markey's bill that targets Catholic schools and gives a free pass to public schools. +Bishop DiMarzio supports a bill introduced by Asslemblyman Vito Lopez which treats public and Catholic schools equally when dealing with accusations of abuse. (source: Catholic League).

So here we have 3 different governments, all interfering or directly attacking the Catholic Church which can be summed up in two words: shut up. When the government is telling you to shut up, that's when we need to speak out the most.

Obligatory Condemnation of Tiller's Killer Post

2009-06-03T23:16:00.003-04:00

A man who made a career of tearing babies limb from limb and puncturing their skulls to suck out their brains, was shot dead by a mentally unbalanced man. Some people are horrified; others are jumping for joy. I'm smack in the middle. Murder is never an answer, whether it's a 15 week unborn baby or an abortionist. I don't even like the death penalty. On the other hand, Tiller is responsible for the deaths of at least 60,000 children. 60,000! And unfortunately, Tiller never had a chance to publicly repent. Is he in Hell? I don't know. I pray he had a chance before death took him to repent of his sins (just like I hope everyone who dies suddenly has a chance, the way I hope I have a chance to repent of my sins before death). I bet Scott Roeder will have the chance to repent he denied Tiller.
My friend has a quote on her Myspace page. It says "Why do we kill people who kill people to show killing is wrong?" Killing Tiller didn't really change anything. Babies will still die due to a "choice". The "choice" people will lionize this man and make him a martyr for their cause. The horror that is abortion will be pushed aside yet again.
Condemning this murder is pointless really. The mere fact that I mentioned George Tiller's heinous profession will null and void any condemnation I give. The pro-aborts are frothing at the mouth over the "violence" of the Right (when in fact it's just one lone looney-tune responsible). The irony is they ignore the violence done to babies at the hands of men like Tiller.

Some current events

2009-05-30T17:23:00.005-04:00

Things happening lately that concern me:

Abortion "doctor" George Tiller shot dead at church Sets pro-life movement back 20 years.

San Diego pastor and wife told to cease their weekly Bible study or face fines (updated) Over zealous jobsworth or something more sinister?

Obama admin to silence critics of porkulous What does this even mean?

Chrysler shuts down GOP dealers, spares Dems/Obama contributors ? speculations

A Haunting

2009-04-22T10:12:00.001-04:00

I love the show, I really do. Even with its cheesy re-enactments and "cheap" scares. And you know that if TAPS were there, they'd debunk the hell out of that shit. One thing that does bug me is the lighting. Why is everything so dark? They have every light in the house on and it's still all doom and gloom. And who gets up in the middle of the night hearing the proverbial "bump" and not turn on a light? I'd break my neck trying to run around here in the dark chasing after vague noises. Then there's smudging. That's where you take some sage and burn it and walk around your house. I guess ghosts don't like the smell or something. But, apparently, the ghosts never got the message because every time a homeowner/ghost victim tries the "smudging" it never works. Neither does calling in a "psychic" to "guide them to the other side". Just ask the Johnsons. That pathetic little wiccan ceremony did jack squat. They had to call in TAPS later. Not that TAPS got rid of whatever it was, they don't do things like that. They just proved that whatever was haunting them was still hanging around.

So yeah it's cheesy and me and my eldest love to riff it MST3K style, but it can still give me the heebie-jeebies and have me reaching for the Holy Water, Rosary and Scapular.

Eco-stupidity

2009-03-28T12:18:00.005-04:00

Here is a classic example of stupid laws with the intent to "save the environment" that end up doing more harm than good.

Apparently in Spokane, WA one cannot purchase certain dishwasher detergents because it's "bad" for the environment. So all that is available on the shelves are "green" products which aren't very effective. So what are people doing? Driving to Idaho to buy the detergent that actually works; no doubt in their SUV's. So not only is Spokane not keeping phosphates out of the water supply, they're adding carbon emissions from the cars that make the trip to the next state over. Some are running their dishwasher on the "pots and pans" cycle, which uses more water than the normal cycle.
This is just like the stupid "low-flow" toilets now mandated by the Government. You use less gallons per flush, yet have to flush more often just to get the shit to go down, therefore using more water than if you just flushed once with a "regular" toilet. More proof that government interference creates more problems than it solves.

2009-03-21T08:42:00.004-04:00

I found this little tidbit via Hot Air

Kansas Man Allegedly Had 2 Wives in Same Apartment Complex

Friday , March 20, 2009

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. —
A Kansas man faces a bigamy charge after allegedly being married to two women who lived in the same apartment complex.
Charles L. Clemens Jr., 61, of Overland Park is charged with bigamy and other felonies, according to authorities.

Officials say police were called to the complex in November when the second wife went to first wife's apartment to confront Clemens and found out he was married to someone else.

Clemens was arrested this week and made his first court appearance Wednesday.

Erickson says Clemens married his first wife 22 years ago. Court records say the second marriage occurred in January 2006. Both women are in their 50s.
Clemons is also charged with using his father's Social Security card to lease one of the apartments and with stealing jewelry and money from his second wife

First, I'd like to point out the idiocy of trying to date two women at the same time who live in the same apartment complex, let alone being married to two women, in the same apartment complex. Secondly, this raises a question for me: if the marriage laws are either changed or abolished altogether, (thus allowing for bigamy/polygamy) what recourse would these women have?

File Under "Nasty"

2009-03-20T08:58:00.003-04:00

My emphasis and comments in green

Higgins High School teacher arrested after allegedly masturbating in classroom

Posted by apowell March 19, 2009 17:30PM

A teacher at a Marrero high school has been arrested after authorities say he was caught masturbating in a classroom by students and another teacher Wednesday. He was suspended without pay.

Joey Lehrman, 22, of New Orleans, was booked with obscenity and taken to the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center in Gretna. He was expected to be released from custody late Thursday on $5,000 bond.

Lehrman is an English teacher at L.W. Higgins High School on Lapalco Boulevard, said Beth Branley, a spokeswoman for the Jefferson Parish public school district. He was hired through the Teach for America program and had worked at the school since August. She said no other complaints have been lodged against him.

According to an arrest report, three students and a substitute teacher saw Lehrman masturbating in his classroom Wednesday about 8 a.m.

When Lehrman was questioned by deputies, he admitted exposing himself, but said he was applying lotion because of a medical condition, [lamest excuse evar] according to a news release from the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office. He then admitted that he masturbated, according to the arrest report. [ew] Lehrman has no prior criminal record, according to authorities.

Lehrman's arrest shocked parents who arrived to pick up their children Thursday, with many of them saying they were unaware that anything had happened.

Parent Roy Ashworth, who was waiting to pick up his son, said he might consider home schooling his teenager next year. Ashworth said that during the first week of school, his son told him that authorities found a gun at the school, and students were forced to enter through metal detectors. Not only are Lehrman's actions disturbing, Ashworth said, but the school's failure to notify parents is troubling.

"If I would have known about it, my son wouldn't be coming to school," Ashworth said. [Which is probably the very reason they didn't notify parents]

Parent Anna Nimenibo agreed that the school did a poor job of notifying parents about the arrest. She said she learned about it after her daughter sent her a text message Thursday. The teenager wanted to come home early because she heard rumors that Lehrman had purposely exposed himself to a female student. Nimenibo said she discounted her daughter's account at first, but now she thinks it might be true.

"She was scared to go to school, but I told her to go to school," Nimenibo said. "What kind of teacher would do something like that in front of the students? ... He's sick if he would do that in school.

Branley said the school system does not have a written policy to notify parents because incidents that require notification happen infrequently. She also said the system's collective bargaining agreement along with state and federal regulations prevent it from disclosing certain personnel matters.

Branley could not confirm or deny Ashworth's claims about a gun being found on the Higgins campus early this year.

So I've Neglected the Blog

2009-03-20T08:54:00.002-04:00

That's right. Had a few other things on my plate, i.e. bebehkins. But hey. At least my kitchen doesn't look like a nuclear bomb went off anymore.

Good grief.

2008-11-09T13:38:00.003-05:00

Planning under way for Obama holiday

The Capital-Journal

Published Sunday, November 09, 2008

Plans are being made to promote a national holiday for Barack Obama, who will become the nation's 44th president when he takes the oath of office Jan. 20.

"Yes We Can" planning rallies will be at 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. every Tuesday at the downtown McDonald's restaurant, 1100 Kansas Ave., until Jan. 13. The goals are to secure a national holiday in Obama's honor, to organize celebrations around his inauguration and to celebrate the 200th birthday of President Abraham Lincoln, who was born on Feb. 12 1809.
At 7:30 a.m. on Inauguration Day, Obama Cake [Obama cake!] will be served at the downtown McDonald's, and a celebration is scheduled for 8 p.m. to midnight Jan. 20 at the Ramada Hotel and Convention Center, 420 S.E. 6th.

FlyLady Failure: a whine

2008-11-07T13:58:00.004-05:00

I discovered the FlyLady a couple of years ago. My ex was trying to get full custody of our son, my house was indeed in CHAOS (Can't Have Anyone Over Syndrome) and I was depressed and had undiagnosed hypothyroidism which not only piled on 30 lbs but also left me in a permanent "blonde moment" and in constant need of a nap. It was horrible.
I liked the concept of FlyLady: baby steps, doing just a little at a time so it's no so overwhelming, getting rid of shit you don't need a/k/a "clutter", setting a timer for 15 minutes. I've always been a slob. Always. Even in the Navy I had a hard time keeping my barracks room fit for inspection, even fear of being written up (there was a word for this but I can't remember it now) didn't motivate me. So I tried FlyLady. But I never really "got with the programme" 100%. I never "got dressed to shoes" because nothing fit except sweatpants and I slept in those, I couldn't do a load of laundry a day because I don't have a washing machine. I didn't put post-it notes up everywhere to remind me to do things. I did manage some of the FlyLady habits. I would, mostly, do the dishes before bed and clean out the sink. I would "swish and swipe" and had somewhat of a morning routine. Not a good one. I was constantly tweaking it, and never could find a routine that worked.
But like most things, I crashed and burned. FlyLady says she designed her system so we wouldn't crash and burn. But there was always something to be done: put out a "hot spot" and the "do it now" approach. Having a toddler at the time, it was overwhelming. I'd no sooner tidy up one room only to find 2 others trashed. There was also a obsessive/compulsive feel to the shiny sink. And there's this expectation that if your house doesn't look like a bread & breakfast, or company ready all the time, it's not the system, it's you. There's also a lot of guilt tripping about making "magical moments" with your children and/or spouse and that you'll have all the free time in the world to lavish attention on them because your house will practically clean itself! I don't know, some of it seems utterly unrealistic. For example, from a FlyLady email about gearing up for the Holidays:

The very first thing that we all have to do is maintain our homes.
Now I am talking about having your routines established so your home
practically cleans itself. I know you don't believe me, but it will
happen if you will just get up and dress to shoes every single day,
commit to keeping your sink shining and lay out your clothes for
tomorrow.

FlyLady worked better for me when I was a smoker, for a couple of reasons. First, I would wake up and go have a cigarette. The only place I smoked in my house was under the oven fan. This would prompt me to put away last nights (clean) dishes in the drainer, and also remember to take my meds (I keep meds in a kitchen cabinet). So I had a bit of a routine to go there. I have no reason to go into the kitchen now and it looks like it should have hazmat warnings posted with yellow caution tape.
Another reason FlyLady worked better for me as a smoker was a "reward" for getting through a 15 minute session: a smoke! It was like a little 5 minute break, and then I'd be ready for the next 15 minute task. I'm not ready to take up smoking again though.
End of this rant.

Oh the Irony!

2008-11-06T10:18:00.003-05:00

I'm probably going to Hell for laughing at these people but I can't help it.

Obama workers angry over unpaid wages

Indianapolis - Lines were long and tempers flared Wednesday not to vote but to get paid for canvassing for Barack Obama. Several hundred people are still waiting to get their pay for last-minute campaigning. Police were called to the Obama campaign office on North Meridian Street downtown to control the crowd.

The line was long and the crowd was angry at times.

"I want my money today! It's my money. I want it right now!" yelled one former campaign worker. (Apparently The One has better use for it.)
A former spokesman for the Obama campaign said 375 people were hired as part of the Vote Corps program and said people signed up to work three-hour shifts at a time. Three hours of canvassing got workers a $30 pre-paid Visa card.

The workers showed up to get their cards Wednesday morning at 10:00 am.

"There was a note on the door saying 1:00 pm and then at 1:20 pm everybody was like why is nobody here. They just got here and they're trying to get it organized," said Heather Richards, a former campaign worker.
The large gathering of around 375 people prompted police to call in extra officers and set up temporary barricades. The barricades helped keep the crowd from spilling out onto Meridian Street. Police say the several hundred people in line were for the most part orderly.
"No arrests. Some of the people were upset at first because the line wasn't moving as fast as they thought it should. But we really haven't had any problems," said Major Darryl Pierce, Metro Police.

Eventually people did start getting paid, but some said they were missing hours and told to fill in paperwork making their claim and that eventually they would get a check in the mail.

"Still that's not right. I'm disappointed. I'm glad for the president, but I'm disappointed in this system," said Diane Jefferson, temporary campaign worker. (Better get used to it Diane)

"It should have been $480. It's $230," said Imani Sankofa. (It's called "spread the wealth")

"They gave us $10 an hour. So we added it. I added up all the hours so it was supposed to be at least $120. All I get is $90," said Charles Martin. (wah-wah-wah! Stop being "selfish" Chuck. That $$ went to someone else, who didn't do the work.)

"I worked nine hours a day for 4 days and got paid half of what I should have earned," said Randall Waldon. (Welcome to the Obama tax plan!)

Some people weren't satisfied with filling out a claim form for money they felt was still due to them.
"They say that they gonna call you or they going to mail it to you, but I don't know. We'll see what happens," said Antron Grose.
"Talking about they'll mail it to us. I ain't worried about that, man. They're not going to mail nothin'," said Martin. (Sucks to be you)

I can't help but snicker. What did these people expect? These are the geniuses that elected Obama.

Looking over my shoulder

2008-11-05T13:57:00.003-05:00

Ever since oh around 10 o'clock last night, I've had this impending sense of doom and dread. Utter doom. "Welcome to the USSA, comrades"

New Blog?

2008-11-05T13:39:00.003-05:00

I had a dream where I started a blog that wasn't really themed on anything; just random stuff typical of what goes on in my head. But then got to thinking "why? Just pick up this one where you left off." So, I guess I could do that. If I stick with it.
I had considered this my "catholic" blog, talking about churchy stuff. But I never update it because I'm such a terrible Catholic, it's embarrassing really. But, now I say heck with it, not like anyone actually reads it but myself and maybe one or two friends. Also, I'm such a coward at saying anything "controversial" which makes for lousy blogging; but at least my blogging is consistent with the rest of my life. So, no new blog. I have a habit of not finishing things and wanting to start from scratch after I've made of mess of it. It doesn't work.

Imperious Lenten Post

2008-02-07T08:08:00.000-05:00

Fasting, Almsgiving and Prayer. The 3 buzzwords every Catholic knows (or should know) about Lent. We received the Ashes on our foreheads yesterday reminding us that God created us from dust and to dust we will return. Besides not eating meat on Friday (which of course is really the only day of the week I'll crave it), a lot of Catholics give up something else as well, something they enjoy but is not really necessary like going out to eat, chocolate, smoking. I usually try to come up with a penance I will be able to stick with by Sexagesima, Quinquagesmia by the latest. Not this year. No, I finally came up with something after a long discussion with a friend yesterday. And it seems an odd sort of penance at first. Being the good little ana that I am, I hop on the scale about 8-10 times a day. It's really become a habit I hardly think about. After lamenting about a 1.5 pound gain, she told me "Get off the damn scale!" (her exact words). She suggested I not get on the scale all during Lent. Knowing this is impossible I thought, "well, how about once a week?" This I can do. So I went in there once last time, weighed myself and wrote the number down (no, I'm not going to tell). But, it being a habit and all, I hopped on it late last night. And wouldn't you know, the scale didn't work. Just nothing. Battery must have died.

Nanny State Strikes Again

2008-02-03T06:58:00.000-05:00

The Mississippi Legislature, in its infinite Wisdom, wants fat people banned from restaurants. It has introduced a law that would prohibit restaurants from serving anyone considered "obese". Who determines what is "obese"? Why, the State of course. Here is the Bill in it's entirety:

MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE

2008 Regular Session

To: Public Health and Human Services; Judiciary B

By: Representative Mayhall, Read, Shows

House Bill 282

AN ACT TO PROHIBIT CERTAIN FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS FROM SERVING FOOD TO ANY PERSON WHO IS OBESE, BASED ON CRITERIA PRESCRIBED BY THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH; TO DIRECT THE DEPARTMENT TO PREPARE WRITTEN MATERIALS THAT DESCRIBE AND EXPLAIN THE CRITERIA FOR DETERMINING WHETHER A PERSON IS OBESE AND TO PROVIDE THOSE MATERIALS TO THE FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS; TO DIRECT THE DEPARTMENT TO MONITOR THE FOOD ESTABLISHMENTS FOR COMPLIANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THIS ACT; AND FOR RELATED PURPOSES.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI:

SECTION 1. (1) The provisions of this section shall apply to any food establishment that is required to obtain a permit from the State Department of Health under Section 41-3-15(4)(f), that operates primarily in an enclosed facility and that has five (5) or more seats for customers.

(2) Any food establishment to which this section applies shall not be allowed to serve food to any person who is obese, based on criteria prescribed by the State Department of Health after consultation with the Mississippi Council on Obesity Prevention and Management established under Section 41-101-1 or its successor. The State Department of Health shall prepare written materials that describe and explain the criteria for determining whether a person is obese, and shall provide those materials to all food establishments to which this section applies. A food establishment shall be entitled to rely on the criteria for obesity in those written materials when determining whether or not it is allowed to serve food to any person.

(3) The State Department of Health shall monitor the food establishments to which this section applies for compliance with the provisions of this section, and may revoke the permit of any food establishment that repeatedly violates the provisions of this section.

SECTION 2. This act shall take effect and be in force from and after July 1, 2008.

Keep kissing your rights good-bye America.

Monstershack Fourms

2008-01-26T00:00:00.000-05:00

Dennis over at the Monstershack has opened up a Forum. If you like cheesy, sci-fi, crappy B-movies, go and check them out! (There's also a section for MST3K fans).

Millions

2008-01-22T20:27:00.000-05:00

If you were born after this date in 1973, be thankful you were not one of the 46 Million (46,000,000) who have been murdered in the womb since Roe vs. Wade.

To fully comprehend this horror, visit this site (no, nothing graphic).

I wonder what my teachers in High School...

2008-01-16T04:57:00.000-05:00

Would think of this:

Pope Celebrates Mass Versus Deum, World Does Not End

2008-01-13T18:50:00.000-05:00

But cliches abound in an Assoiciated Press article. Father Zuhlsdorf lays a Fisheater smackdown.

The Apostles by Pope Benedict XVI

2007-12-30T23:40:00.000-05:00

From March 15, 2006 to February 14, 2007, His Holiness gave a catecheses during his weekly General Audiences. These have been gathered together and placed in book form. I found this slim volume at my local library and snatched it up. I am so very glad I did.
The more I read Pope Benedict the more I love him. He writes clearly and beautifully. I'm only in the middle of Chapter 5, but he wrote some amazing things I want to share with you. (Both of you).
In Chapter 3 he writes about Communion in Time: Tradition. He writes that that by being in Communion with Christ and His Church "all believers of the past and of the future form with us a single great Communion". It made me reflect on the vastness of what we call the Catholic Church, that it is bigger than just here and now. Much, much bigger.

About Tradition itself he writes:

"Apostolic Tradition is not a collection of things or words, like a box of dead things. Tradition is the river of new life that flows from the origins, from Christ down to us, and makes us participate in God's history with humanity"

What an excellent image of Tradition: a living river flowing down to us to make the past present in a sense.
In his Chapter on the Apostle Peter he makes an interesting point. Peter wanted the Messiah to "impose His power and transform the world instantly." But Jesus took another way, one of suffering and humility. This spoke to me very loudly. We want God to change the world NOW! But that's not His way. He writes

"This is the great alternative that we must learn over and over again; to give priority to our own expectations, rejecting Jesus, or to accept Jesus in the truth of His mission and set aside all of our too human expectations."

How true! See, I just love this Pope!

Fifth Joyful Mystery: The Finding of Jesus at the Temple

2007-12-23T20:11:00.000-05:00

Today is the 4th Sunday of Advent and Christmas is only 2 days away! I finally made it to the Traditional Latin Mass today, Deo Gratias! I just couldn't stand one more Novus Ordo Mass. I honestly think going to that Rite (or whatever you want to call it) was part of my problems in actually getting to Sunday Mass. It was also the first time I took the new car too. Okay last Joyful Mystery.

41 And his parents went every year to Jerusalem, at the solemn day of the pasch, 42 And when he was twelve years old, they going up into Jerusalem, according to the custom of the feast, 43 And having fulfilled the days, when they returned, the child Jesus remained in Jerusalem; and his parents knew it not. 44 And thinking that he was in the company, they came a day's journey, and sought him among their kinsfolks and acquaintance. 45 And not finding him, they returned into Jerusalem, seeking him.
46 And it came to pass, that, after three days, they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, hearing them, and asking them questions. 47 And all that heard him were astonished at his wisdom and his answers. 48 And seeing him, they wondered. And his mother said to him: Son, why hast thou done so to us? behold thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing. 49 And he said to them: How is it that you sought me? did you not know, that I must be about my father's business? 50 And they understood not the word that he spoke unto them.
51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject to them. And his mother kept all these words in her heart. 52 And Jesus advanced in wisdom, and age, and grace with God and men. Luke 2:52

This is a joyful mystery, the joy of finding Jesus. Unfortunately, I concentrate too much on Mary and Joseph searching for Him. Any one who is a parent knows the panicky feeling they must have felt; mostly like multiplied a hundredfold. He wasn't just their Son, he was the Messiah. St. Alphonsus de Liguori says that Mary loves Jesus more than all the love of Mothers in the history of the world. For some reason, I focus way too much on this part of the mystery instead of the joy they felt at finding Him alive and well, and on top of that, He was astonishing all those smart guys in the Temple. Notice also, He was gone three days. The fruit of this mystery is, obviously, the Joy of Finding Jesus.

All the Bible quotations were taken from the Douay-Rheims version of the Holy Bible.

Fourth Joyful Mystery: The Presentation

2007-12-19T19:04:00.000-05:00

21 And after eight days were accomplished, that the child should be circumcised, his name was called JESUS, which was called by the angel, before he was conceived in the womb. 22 And after the days of her purification, according to the law of Moses, were accomplished, they carried him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord: 23 As it is written in the law of the Lord: Every male opening the womb shall be called holy to the Lord: 24 And to offer a sacrifice, according as it is written in the law of the Lord, a pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons: 25 And behold there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel; and the Holy Ghost was in him.26 And he had received an answer from the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Christ of the Lord. 27 And he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when his parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the law, 28 He also took him into his arms, and blessed God, and said: 29 Now thou dost dismiss thy servant, O Lord, according to thy word in peace; 30 Because my eyes have seen thy salvation,31 Which thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples: 32 A light to the revelation of the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel. 33 And his father and mother were wondering at those things which were spoken concerning him. 34 And Simeon blessed them, and said to Mary his mother: Behold this child is set for the fall, and for the resurrection of many in Israel, and for a sign which shall be contradicted; 35 And thy own soul a sword shall pierce, that, out of many hearts, thoughts may be revealed.36 And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser; she was far advanced in years, and had lived with her husband seven years from her virginity. 37 And she was a widow until fourscore and four years; who departed not from the temple, by fastings and prayers serving night and day. 38 Now she, at the same hour, coming in, confessed to the Lord; and spoke of him to all that looked for the redemption of Israel. 39 And after they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their city Nazareth.
Luke 2:21-39

This mystery is probably the one out of all 15 that gives me the most trouble. Most likely because my meditations on it are so short. I imagine Mary and Joseph bringing the Baby Jesus to the temple. Then the old man, Simeon takes the Baby and recognizes Him as the Messiah. The the old lady, Anna who does the same. These just keep going over in my mind (if I'm lucky and don't start thinking about something else, like fixing dinner or what I need to clean etc). The fruit of this mystery is Obedience. Mary and Joseph were obedient to the Law. Now we must be obedient to Him Who surpasses the Old Law.

Third Joyful Mystery: The Birth of Christ

2007-12-19T09:47:00.000-05:00

I know I've been slacking. I'm way behind on my Rosary meditations. Christmas is only 6 days away. I have no excuse other than I'm a lazy git. So on with it.

1 And it came to pass, that in those days there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that the whole world should be enrolled. 2 This enrolling was first made by Cyrinus, the governor of Syria. 3 And all went to be enrolled, every one into his own city. 4 And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth into Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem: because he was of the house and family of David, 5 To be enrolled with Mary his espoused wife, who was with child. 6 And it came to pass, that when they were there, her days were accomplished, that she should be delivered. 7 And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him up in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn. 8 And there were in the same country shepherds watching, and keeping the night watches over their flock. 9 And behold an angel of the Lord stood by them, and the brightness of God shone round about them; and they feared with a great fear. 10 And the angel said to them: Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, that shall be to all the people: 11 For, this day, is born to you a Saviour, who is Christ the Lord, in the city of David. 12 And this shall be a sign unto you. You shall find the infant wrapped in swaddling clothes, and laid in a manger. 13 And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly army, praising God, and saying: 14 Glory to God in the highest; and on earth peace to men of good will. 15 And it came to pass, after the angels departed from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another: Let us go over to Bethlehem, and let us see this word that is come to pass, which the Lord hath shewed to us. 16 And they came with haste; and they found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger. 17 And seeing, they understood of the word that had been spoken to them concerning this child. 18 And all that heard, wondered; and at those things that were told them by the shepherds. 19 But Mary kept all these words, pondering them in her heart. 20 And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God, for all the things they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them. Luke 2:1-20

Sometimes, I have trouble with this mystery. I don't know whether to focus on Mary and Joseph, adoring their Child, or the shepherds who come to adore Him, or even the journey Mary and Joseph make and trying to find a room. Eventually, I realize that I've said all 10 Ave's. I do try to imagine, as in the picture, that Our Lord is the Light of the world; the Source of all Light. It's hard to fathom that the Second Person of the Holy Trinity became a tiny baby, just like us. I look at my kids and marvel that Our Lord was once that age. (Although much better behaved, of course). And to be born is such a place. Not a warm cozy room but a cold cave where the animals are kept. The fruit of this mystery is Love of Poverty.

Bishop Upholds Church Teaching,

2007-12-08T23:20:00.000-05:00

...so of course there is a protest.

Second Joyful Mystery: The Visitation

2007-12-06T03:01:00.000-05:00

And Mary rising up in those days, went into the hill country with haste into a city of Juda. And she entered into the house of Zachary, and saluted Elizabeth.
And it came to pass, that when Elizabeth heard the salutation of Mary, the infant leaped in her womb. And Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Ghost: And she cried out with a loud voice, and said: Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb. And whence is this to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? For behold as soon as the voice of thy salutation sounded in my ears, the infant in my womb leaped for joy. And blessed art thou that hast believed, because those things shall be accomplished that were spoken to thee by the Lord.
And Mary said: My soul doth magnify the Lord. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour. Because he hath regarded the humility of his handmaid; for behold from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. Because he that is mighty, hath done great things to me; and holy is his name. And his mercy is from generation unto generations, to them that fear him.
He hath shewed might in his arm: he hath scattered the proud in the conceit of their heart. He hath put down the mighty from their seat, and hath exalted the humble. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich he hath sent empty away. He hath received Israel his servant, being mindful of his mercy: As he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his seed for ever. And Mary abode with her about three months; and she returned to her own house. (Luke 1, 39-56)

If I haven't fallen asleep by now, I have a fairly easy time imagining this Mystery. Mary, having been told by the Archangel Gabriel about the pregnancy of her elderly kinswoman, immediately gets up and sets out to her house. She knows Elizabeth will need assistance in the last few months. The Bible doesn't say if Joseph went with her or not; I always imagine her alone on the journey. What was she thinking as she traveled? Practical things perhaps; or maybe wondering how she was going to tell Elizabeth about the Angel. No doubt she prayed too. And then she sees Elizabeth and calls out to her. That's when all the interesting things happen: Elizabeth's child (St. John the Baptist) leaps in her womb and being filled with the Holy Spirit calls Our Lady the "Mother of my Lord" and praises her for believing. Mary in turn praises God in her beautiful Magnificat for all the wonderful things He has done for her (and us). Her prophecy that the world shall call her Blessed has indeed come spectacularly true.

Fisheaters.com has a great page about the Visitation. I particularly like the parallel between Luke and II Kings; that Mary is the Ark of the New Covenant.

The fruit of this mystery is charity towards our neighbor.

Computer Problems

2007-12-02T20:11:00.000-05:00

I'm experiencing some computer troubles at the moment. I will try to post my meditation on the second Joyful Mystery tomorrow or Wednesday.

Pope's New Encyclical Letter Spe Salvi

2007-11-30T11:20:00.000-05:00

His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI has issued his second encyclical entitled "Spe Salvi" which I'm not sure what it means, maybe "In hope we are saved" One can read the whole thing here.

I'm looking forward to reading it even if a little apprehensive about understanding it. Although my experience with Pope Benedict is that he is much, much easier to understand than Pope John Paul II.

What Holiday am I?

2007-11-25T19:35:00.000-05:00

You Are Easter

You are an optimistic, hopeful, and genuinely sweet person.
Sensitive and affectionate, you are easily touched.
You love nature, animals, and anything cute or cuddly.
For you, every day is a new chance - no matter what happened yesterday.

What makes you celebrate: Almost anything. You love most holidays and celebrations.

At holiday get togethers, you do best as: The peacemaker. You can prevent any squabbles that might break out.

On a holiday, you're the one most likely to: Remember to include everyone

What Holiday Are You?

1st Joyful Mystery: The Annunciation

2007-11-25T11:21:00.001-05:00

And in the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from God into a city of Galilee, called Nazareth,
To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David: and the virgin's name was Mary.
And the angel being come in, said unto her: Hail, full of grace, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.
Who having heard, was troubled at his saying and thought with herself what manner of salutation this should be.
And the angel said to her: Fear not, Mary, for thou hast found grace with God.
Behold thou shalt conceive in thy womb and shalt bring forth a son: and thou shalt call his name Jesus.
He shall be great and shall be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of David his father: and he shall reign in the house of Jacob for ever.
And of his kingdom there shall be no end.
And Mary said to the angel: How shall this be done, because I know not man?
And the angel answering, said to her: The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee and the power of the Most High shall overshadow thee. And therefore also the Holy which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God.
And behold thy cousin Elizabeth, she also hath conceived a son in her old age: and this is the sixth month with her that is called barren.
Because no word shall be impossible with God.
And Mary said: Behold the handmaid of the Lord: be it done to me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her. (Luke 1:26-38 Douay Rheims)

I've always loved this picture of the Annunciation. It's almost as if someone had gone back in time and snapped a photo of the Event. The film only picks up the Archangel Gabriel as a source of Light, but undoubtedly, Our Lady sees him as he really is. (I did some background and discovered it was painted by Henry Ossawa Tanner, in 1898.)

So, I've always wondered what Our Lady was doing right before St. Gabriel appeared to her. Was she doing some household chore? Baking or preparing to bake? Cleaning? Perhaps she was thinking about Joseph and how kind and gentle he was. No matter. But no doubt she was startled to find an Angel right there in the room with her! Then he addresses her as "Full of Grace", and now she is confused as well. He puts her at ease and tells her the reason for his visit. Now she is even more confused. "How can this be?" He assures her that her vow of Virginity will not be compromised. Mary, whose will is most intimately united to the Will of God, humbly responds that she is a "handmaid of the Lord" and to "let it be done". Her trust in God is complete and absolute.
The virtue or fruit of this Mystery is Humility.

The Joyful Mysteries: My wandering meditations

2007-11-25T11:07:00.000-05:00

Christmas is only 5 weeks away, and I thought, for the edification of my readers (both of you) I would, each Sunday leading up to Christmas, explain a bit my meditations on the 5 Joyful Mysteries of the Most Holy Rosary. These are merely what I try to meditate upon when praying the Rosary. I don't always succeed as my mind tends to wander greatly; or I fall asleep. Some come easily, some come rather reluctantly. So, next up: The Annunciation.

Daily Pilgrimage to Purgatory

2007-11-24T12:40:00.000-05:00

Saturday
Holy Souls in Purgatory, is there anything you regret when you think of your life on earth?
I deeply regret the little amount of charity I have shown towards the Poor Souls during my life on earth... I could have been of such great service to them, bring them so much light and peace. I could have helped them by my prayers, mortification's, alms, good works, holy Communions. I could have had Masses said for the Poor Souls or attended them, especially those celebrated in honor of the Sacred Heart. I would have obtained numerous graces which would have made it easier for me to avoid sin. Moreover, I would have deserved a much shorter and less painful Purgatory and now I would receive a much greater share in the prayers which are said for us.
Oh, could I but return to the world to help the Poor Souls! I certainly would interest myself in their plight! What devout prayers would I say for them! How solicitous I would be to awaken in the faithful the most tender sympathy and pity for them!

from "Daily Pilgrimage to Purgatory"
published by the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart

Daily Pilgrimage to Purgatory

2007-11-23T00:30:00.000-05:00

Friday
Holy Souls in Purgatory, is there anything you regret when you think of your life on earth?
I deeply regret my neglect of acts of mortification. How easy they would have been on earth, but how difficult they are now in Purgatory. Here the smallest suffering is more poignant than the most cruel torments on earth. In the world it meant only patience and resignation in the hardships and adversities of my life; it meant only giving from my surplus to the poor, and devoting myself to works of mercy. Nothing could have been easier, and my Purgatory would have been shortened considerably.
If God would but grant me the grace to exchange the years during which I must still remain in this place of sorrow for as many years of life on earth! No commands would be too severe for me; no pains could frighten me; the most difficult works of penance would seem easy and give me comfort.
You who now suffer under the trials and hardships of life! You who now earn your daily bread by the sweat of your brow, rejoice! The smallest suffering endured in the spirit of atonement and offered to the Sacred Heart, will save you from a long and painful Purgatory.

from "Daily Pilgrimage to Purgatory"
published by the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart

Daily Pilgrimage to Purgatory

2007-11-22T00:35:00.000-05:00

Thursday
Holy Souls in Purgatory, is there anything you regret when you think of your life on earth?
I deeply regret the scandal which I have given! If only I would have prevented the disastrous consequences of the scandal which I caused. If only I could warn the many souls that followed my example and listened to me! Through my fault the evil goes on. And now I have to give an account of all the sins for which I am to blame! Oh, were I but able to let my words resound unto the ends of the earth and to wander through the world as a preacher of penance! With what untiring zeal would I labor among people to turn them from evil and return them to virtue.
O you my friends on earth, who come to visit me in this darkness in order to let a ray of light shine upon me: you will find in the Sacred Heart the surest way of bringing back to God as many people as I have led into sin by bad example! Tell them that He invites them: "Come to me all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest ... learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for your souls" (Matt. 11, 28-29)

from "Daily Pilgrimage to Purgatory"
published by the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart

Daily Pilgrimage to Purgatory

2007-11-21T01:44:00.000-05:00

Wednesday
Holy Souls in Purgatory, is there anything you regret when you think of your life on earth?
I deeply regret the evil which I have done. Evil seemed so easy, pleasant; and I silenced the voice of conscience. Today my faults weigh me down; their bitterness and memory torment me. Mortal sins, forgiven, but not atoned, venial sins, imperfections. Too late to detest you now. Punishment must take its course.
Oh, if I could return to life again! No promise, be it ever so tempting, no riches, no flattery, could induce me to sin.
My friends, you who are still free to choose between God and the world, gaze on the crown of thorns, the cross, all the sufferings which your sins have brought. Think of the sorrow which these sins and faults will cause you in Purgatory, and you will be able to avoid them.
If you long for the grace to resist Satan when he tempts you , consider what St. Margaret Mary says: "I cannot believe that persons consecrated to this divine Heart will ever be lost; neither do I believe that they will fall into the hands of Satan by committing a mortal sin, after having given themselves entirely to Him. For they will make every effort to honor, love and glorify this divine Heart, and to follow His designs."

from "Daily Pilgrimage to Purgatory:
published by the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart

Daily Pilgrimage to Purgatory

2007-11-20T00:09:00.000-05:00

Tuesday
Holy Souls in Purgatory, is there anything you regret when you think of your life on earth?
I deeply regret my neglect of so many splendid graces! They have been offered to me in such abundance, at every moment of my life and with such loving admonitions... Spiritual regeneration, vocation and sacraments; word of God, holy inspirations and good examples; graces to protect me in danger, to help me in temptations; the grace of forgiveness for my sins. Some of them I have refused; others I have accepted with coldness; unfortunately, I have misused so many of them. I preferred earthly possessions to the eternal. How I have deceived myself!
Oh, could I but for one moment quench my thirst at the fountains of mercy, flowing from the Heart of Christ. You, you behold the inexhaustible stream of graces flow by, why do you not draw from it a few drops for yourself?
Consider what St. Margaret Mary says: "It is certain that everyone on earth could obtain salutary graces without number, if they but had a grateful love for Jesus Christ, such as is seen in those who love and venerate His Sacred Heart."

from "Daily Pilgrimage to Purgatory"
published by the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart

Daily Pilgrimage to Purgatory

2007-11-18T22:46:00.000-05:00

Monday
Holy Souls in Purgatory, is there anything you regret when you think of your life on earth?
I deeply regret my extravagance in the use of earthly possessions... My fortune, my health, my talent, my position in the world, the influence I had, my relatives, in a word, everything could have been of spiritual benefit to me if only I had known how to use it for the greater honor of the Sacred Heart. How many graces could I have drawn upon myself! This I neglected to do and at the hour of my death, all my possessions have come to naught.
Oh, were I but rich today in these my form possessions! Would that I could use them to hasten, even for one moment, the hour of my deliverance; to increase, even by one degree, the glory which God has in store for me; to awaken, if only in one soul now living in the world, the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
My friends, whose earthly goods are still at your disposal, use them for the support of your neighbour by generously giving alms to the poor. Use them for the greater honor of God and help promote response to God's love.

from "Daily Pilgrimage to Purgatory"
published by the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart

Daily Pilgrimage to Purgatory

2007-11-18T19:03:00.000-05:00

Sunday
Holy Souls in Purgatory, is there anything you regret when you think of your life on earth?
I deeply regret wasted time!... Purchased with the Blood of Christ, you were given to me for the purpose of loving God and others. But I abused you by committing sin; I craved vanity, pleasures and trifles. How it grieves me to have lost you through my own fault! Fleeting time!... Time which passes so quickly on earth, but which drags so slowly in this purification! How long shall my exile last? Hours now seem like years, days like centuries. I must now redeem the wasted time. Irretrievable time!... On earth I relied on my last years to do penance; but my life was ended when I expected it least! The time given to acquire treasures and graces without number, are now lost forever.
You, living on earth, do not waste the gift of time; do not imitate our carelessness.
Through devotion to the Sacred Heart, who has revealed to the world His love in its fullness intercede for us that we may obtain the merits of His grace so freely and abundantly offered.

from "Daily Pilgrimage to Purgatory"
published by the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart

Chaplet for the Holy Souls in Purgatory

2007-11-07T11:43:00.000-05:00

Prayed on a regular Rosary.

Make the "Sign Of The Cross" on the Cross. Then say the Apostle's Creed.

On the 5 beads between the Cross and the medal, say,

1 Our Father...
3 Hail Mary...
1 Glory Be...

For each decade, proceed as follows:

On the large bead prior to 10 small beads, say:

"O Holy Souls
draw the fire of God's love into my soul,
to reveal Jesus Crucified in me here on earth,
rather than hereafter in Purgatory."

On each of the small beads, say:

"Crucified Lord Jesus,
have mercy on the souls in Purgatory."

When you have completed all 5 decades, say 3 times the Glory Be...

from "Catholic Doors Ministry"

Sins Against Charity Are Severly Punished in Purgatory

2007-11-05T15:35:00.000-05:00

True Charity is humble and indulgent towards others, respecting them as though they were their superiors. Her words are always friendly, and full of consideration for others, having nothing of bitterness nor coldness, nothing savoring of contempt, because she is born of a heart that is meek and humble like that of Jesus. She also takes every means, makes every sacrifice to effect a reconciliation, according to the words of our Divine Master, If thou offer thy gift at the altar, and there thou remember that thy brother hath anything against thee,leave there thy offering before the altar, and go first to be reconciled to thy brother, and then coming thou shalt offer thy gift. (Matt. 5:23)
A Religious having wounded Charity in regard to St. Louis Bertrand, received a terrible chastisement after death. He was plunged into the fire of Purgatory, which he had to endure until he had made satisfaction to Divine Justice; nay, more, he could not be admitted into the abode of the elect until he had accomplished an act of exterior reparation, which should serve as an example to the living.
When St. Louis Bertrand, of the Order of St. Dominic, resided at the convent of Valencia, there was a young Religious in the community who attached too much importance to profane science. Doubtless letters and erudition have their value, but, as the Holy Ghost declares, they should yield to the fear of God and the science of the saints. Non super timenten Dominum--There is non above him that feareth the Lord (Ecclus. 25:13)
This science of the saints, which Eternal Wisdom came to teach us, consists in Humility and Charity. The young Religious of whom we speak, while but little advanced in Divine science, allowed himself to reproach Father Bertrand with his little knowledge, and said to him "One can see, Father, that you are not very learned!" "Brother," replied the saint with meek firmness, "Lucifer was very learned, and yet he was damned."
The brother who had committed this fault did not think of repairing it. Nevertheless, he was not a bad Religious, and some time after, falling dangerously sick, he received the last Sacrament in very good dispositions, and expired peacefully in the Lord. A considerable time elapsed, and meanwhile Louis was nominated Prior. One day, having remained in choir after Matins, the deceased appeared to him enveloped in flames, and prostrating humbly before him said "Father, pardon me the offensive words which I formerly addressed to you. God will not permit me to see His face until you shall have pardoned my fault and offered Holy Mass for me." The saint willingly forgave him, and the next morning celebrated Mass for the repose of his soul. The following night, being again in choir, he saw the deceased brother reappear, but radiant with glory and going up to Heaven (Acta Sanctor., Oct.10)

From"Purgatory Explained" by Fr. F.X. Schouppe, S.J.
Chapter 40, pgs 152-154

Update on University of Delaware

2007-11-02T14:19:00.001-04:00

The University of Delaware has dropped its "diversity" program, not because they find anything wrong with it but because of "questions about its practices".

Read the whole article here.

For some reason, I'm reminded of cockroaches. When the light comes on, they scurry away.

November: Dedicated to the Holy Souls in Purgatory

2007-11-01T09:51:00.000-04:00

November is the month dedicated to those souls who are currently suffering in Purgatory. I love this time of year because there are so many things we can do to help them. They need our help since they cannot help themselves. Not only is it a great act of charity but the souls you help will be powerful intercessors on your behalf when they enter Heaven. "Ingratitude is unknown in Heaven!"
From November 1st through November 8th we can gain a plenary (that is, full remission) indulgence each day (applicable only to the Holy Souls) if we visit a cemetery and pray for the souls. We can also gain one November 2nd by visiting a church.
There are many, many ways we can gain indulgences for those in the Church Suffering, and it really isn't all that difficult. A Rosary prayed in public (this would include the Family Rosary), one can gain a plenary indulgence (partial in other circumstances).
Making the Stations of the Cross will gain a plenary indulgence as will 30 minutes of Eucharistic Adoration or 30 minutes of pious reading of Holy Scriptures. Even gaining partial indulgences helps them more than we realize. But of course the most efficacious means is having Mass said for them; or at least hearing Mass for them. It's such a shame we don't hear much about Purgatory (except in traditional circles). Some Catholics have been lead to believe that it doesn't even exist anymore! Belief in Purgatory is now and has always been an article of faith which every Catholic must believe to remain Catholic.
I will be trying to post a little something every day for the month, mostly different prayers that are applicable to the Holy Souls. The following is one of my favorites, which Our Lord told St. Gertrude the Great would release 1,000 souls from Purgatory each time it is said. 1,000 souls! We could easily say this simple prayer 10, 20, 50 or 100 times a day.

"Eternal Father, I offer Thee the Most Precious Blood of Thy Divine Son, Jesus, in union with the Masses said throughout the world today, for all the Holy Souls in Purgatory, for sinners everywhere, for sinners in the universal church, those in my own home and within my family. Amen."

All Whites Are Racist?

2007-10-31T05:36:00.000-04:00

This is a story from WorldNetDaily.com with my comments in green, A la Father Z.

A mandatory University of Delaware program requires residence hall students to acknowledge that "all whites are racist" and offers them "treatment" for any incorrect attitudes regarding class, gender, religion, culture or sexuality they might hold upon entering the school, according to a civil rights group.

"Somehow, the University of Delaware seems terrifyingly unaware that a state-sponsored institution of higher education in the United States does not have the legal right to engage in a program of systematic thought reform. The First Amendment protects the right to freedom of conscience – the right to keep our innermost thoughts free from governmental intrusion. It also protects the right to be free from compelled speech," said a letter from Samantha Harris, director of legal and public advocacy for The Foundation for Individual Rights in Education to university President Patrick Harker.

The organization cited excerpts from the university's Office of Residence Life Diversity Education Training documents, including the statement:

"A RACIST: A racist is one who is both privileged and socialized on the basis of race by a white supremacist (racist) system. 'The term applies to all white people (i.e., people of European descent) living in the United States, regardless of class, gender, religion, culture or sexuality. By this definition, people of color cannot be racists, because as peoples within the U.S. system, they do not have the power to back up their prejudices, hostilities, or acts of discrimination….'" {And just you never mind about Colin Powell, Condoleeza Rice, Clarence Thomas, Senator Barack Obama, they have no power.}

The education program also notes that "reverse racism" is "a term created and used by white people to deny their white privilege." And "a non-racist" is called "a non-term," because, the program explains, "The term was created by whites to deny responsibility for systemic racism, to maintain an aura of innocence in the face of racial oppression, and to shift the responsibility for that oppression from whites to people of color (called 'blaming the victim')."

The "education" regarding racism is just one of the subjects that students are required to adopt as part of their University of Delaware experience, too, FIRE noted.

The "shocking program of ideological reeducation," which the school itself defines as a "treatment" for students' incorrect attitudes and beliefs, is nothing less than "Orwellian," FIRE said.

The school requires its approximately 7,000 residence hall students "to adopt highly specific university-approved views on issues ranging from politics to race, sexuality, sociology, moral philosophy and environmentalism."

"FIRE is calling for the total dismantling of the program, which is a flagrant violation of students' rights to freedom of conscience and freedom from compelled speech," the organization said.

On a foundation blog, a student noted that one residence assistant told students, "Not to scare anyone or anything, but these are MANDATORY!!" And the training program for those who indoctrinate students includes the order: "A researcher must document that the treatment/intervention was faithfully applied (ex: specific lesson plans were delivered to every student, etc.)."

Further, the school requires "a systemic change" as a result of the program, FIRE noted. As one RA told students: "Like it or not, you all are the future Leaders, and the world is Diverse, so learning to Embrace and Appreciate that diversity is ESSENTIAL." {We must all think the exact same way to be diverse?}

"The University of Delaware's residence life education program is a grave intrusion into students' private beliefs," FIRE President Greg Lukianoff said. "The university has decided that it is not enough to expose its students to the values it considers important; instead, it must coerce its students into accepting those values as their own. At a public university like Delaware, this is both unconscionable and unconstitutional."

According to university materials, RAs are instructed to ask students during one-on-one sessions questions such as: "When did you discover your sexual identity?" "When were you first made aware of your race?" and "Who taught you a lesson in regard to some sort of diversity awareness? What was the lesson?" {These have to be the most inane questions I've ever come across. How could anybody answer these? It's like asking "When were you first made aware of your toe?"}

"Students who express discomfort with this type of questioning often meet with disapproval from their RAs, who write reports on these one-on-one sessions and deliver these reports to their superiors. One student identified in a write-up as an RA's 'worst' one-on-one session was a young woman who stated that she was tired of having 'diversity shoved down her throat,'" FIRE said.

This particular student responded to the question, "When did you discover your sexual identity?" with the terse: "That is none of your damn business," FIRE said.

Requirements for students include: "Students will recognize that systemic oppression exists in our society," "Students will recognize the benefits of dismantling systems of oppression," {And replace them with New Systems of Oppression} and "Students will be able to utilize their knowledge of sustainability to change their daily habits and consumer mentality," FIRE said.

The foundation said students even are "pressured or even required" to make social statements that meet with the school's approval.

"The fact that the university views its students as patients in need of treatment for some sort of moral sickness betrays a total lack of respect not only for students' basic rights, but for students themselves," Lukianoff said. "The University of Delaware has both a legal and a moral obligation to immediately dismantle this program, and FIRE will not rest until it has."

A spokesman for the school, contacted by WND, said he was not ready to make a statement about the situation right away. {Why not?}

But the foundation's letter to Harker noted, "we have never encountered a more systematic assault upon the individual liberty, dignity, privacy, and autonomy of university students than this program," which "requires students to adopt highly specific university-approved views on issues."

"Such utter contempt for the autonomy and free agency of others is the hallmark of totalitarianism and has no place in any free society, let alone at a public university in the state of Delaware," the letter said.

Especially alarming, Harris told WND, is that the school defines learning specifically as "attitudinal or behavioral changes," not acquiring any sort of knowledge and ability. They're paying over $18,000 for tuition and "not acquiring any sort of knowledge and ability"? What a rip-off!

Such thinking "represents a distorted idea of 'education' that one would more easily associate with a Soviet prison camp than with an American institution of higher education," FIRE said. "As another example, after an investigation showed that males demonstrated 'a higher degree of resistance to educational efforts,' {that is, resistance to attitudinal and behavioral changes} the Rodney complex chose to hire 'strong male RAs.' Each such RA 'combats male residents' concepts of traditional male identity,' in order to 'ensure the delivery of the curriculum at the same level as in the female floors.' This language is disturbingly reminiscent of a pivotal scene from George Orwell's '1984,' in which the protagonist's captors tell him that 'The Party is not interested in the overt act: the thought is all we care about. We do not merely destroy our enemies, we change them.'"

No small danger, FIRE noted, is being presented to the university through such apparent constitutional violations. "Simply put, the residence life education program is a legal minefield," the group said.

So, if I want to attend U of D I'd have to:

admit I'm racist (I'm white and all whites are inherently racist... wait, isn't that racist?)
receive "treatment" for said racism and other "incorrect attitudes"
pay $18K, not to learn a skill or acquire knowledge but to change my attitude and behavior

Did I forget anything? I'll happily retract this post if the information turns out to be misleading or incorrect (because a small part is saying they wouldn't be so blatant about their agenda). But it's sad that it's entirely believable.

If Only ....

2007-10-21T15:55:00.000-04:00

... we had women and married teachers.

Maybe this wouldn't have happened.

How Nerdy Am I?

2007-10-18T09:55:00.001-04:00

Overall, you scored as follows:

44% scored higher (more nerdy),
1% scored the same, and
55% scored lower (less nerdy).

What does this mean? Your nerdiness is:

Somewhat nerdy. I mean face it, you are nerdier than about half the test takers.

Lay Involvement and Vatican II

2007-10-17T09:48:00.000-04:00

Father Ray Blake has an interesting post about the roles of the laity since the Second Vatican Council. Well worth the read. A snippet:

The priest facing the people creates a smug little huddle that looks in on itself. If the image people are presented with day after day, Sunday after Sunday is the priest looking at the people over the altar and most especially prays to God whilst directing his gaze at the congregation, one might be led to suspect that God is to found there rather than elsewhere, beyond and above the immediate community.