Jesus you are the one who gives me the ability to breathe
Jesus I call to you daily; you are the one I need
You never fail to look after me, taking care everyday
You never fail to prove me wrong in each and every way
Yet I doubt almost constantly your great power
Help me to turn to you every day and in my last hour
Grant me the peace and serenity only you can give
Help me to do your will every moment that I live

Together with family we have a great time
No matter what we’re doing we’re always having fun
Smiles and laughs and joy abound
With such great people it’s hard not to be positive
At the end of the day we are tired and happy
We retire to bed with a roof o’er our head
And thank the Lord for the things we have
Whether at the pool, sitting together and chatting, or anything else
Time with people you cherish is time indeed well spent
Time alone and spent for yourself is also necessary

Prayer of St. Joseph

Dear St. Joseph most chaste spouse of the Blessed ****** Mary and earthly father to our Lord Jesus let your soft and strong spirit be upon us this day. You were a quiet and reflective man. You were humble and modest. In a world that in this day does not place a high value on such virtues that you portray, we look to you St. Joseph as a shining example of what fatherhood and manliness can truly be. You were a carpenter, a builder, a worker. Yours were strong hands; rough and calloused from work, but they were also gentle and loving hands. Surely each piece you built was a work of love and crafted with great care. The hugs you must have given Jesus were so strong and gentle. You taught your son how to build as well. It is of little wonder then that the cross he would suffer and die on would become a great bridge connecting us to each other and to your son in heaven. Yours were warm loving eyes. Eyes full of sadness, pain, and incredible joy. Was there a time when it was revealed to you what your son must endure? I can’t image what that would’ve felt like knowing what was going to happen, desperately wanting it not to, and still knowing it was God’s will. Even with all of that you said “Yes Lord. Okay. Let your will be done. I trust in you”. I only hope we might have the smallest bit of the faith, the peace, and the quiet strength that you had. Be with us St. Joseph that we might learn how to better love, better serve, and better protect the sanctity of marriage and of the family. Be with us St. Joseph in our jobs that we may remain humble in the good work that we do. Let all the work that we do, be done with great love. Bless us St. Joseph and especially those that work with their hands. Bless us St. Joseph and bless our eyes so that we may see and love others in a more profound light and that our vision would not be clouded by pain and sadness. Bless us St. Joseph and bless our minds and our hearts that we might have the grace and strength to be pure and chaste as you were. Bless us St. Joseph and bless our souls that we might obtain some of the peace, the quiet strength, the faith to say “Yes” to your son and “No” to the wiles of this Earth. Bless us oh Most Holy St. Joseph that one day we may come to know you and be with you and the Holy Family in Heaven for all eternity.

Amen

Jesus he's my savior
He lived near Galilee
I know about his ministry
And of his great love for me

He sought out his disciples
They followed him blindly
He loved the poor and healed the sickly
And he helped the blind to see

I know that he's my savior
He died to set me free
Each day I love him more, his disciple I will be
As I walk the path of righteousness and spirituality

The little things that we do can sometimes change a life
We never really know the impact of what we do today:
A smile, a hug, a small act of kindness; letting them know it's alright.

Be hope and comfort in a world where pain and suffering are rife,
Someone might have had a really rotten time that day.
The little things that we do can sometimes change a life.

Kind words and actions heal but a harsh tongue cuts like a knife.
What a difference it can make by being nice and showing love, so hey!
A smile, a hug, a small act of kindness; letting them know it's alright.

When darkness surrounds us and there seems no end in sight,
And when things look bleak and we're losing hope and someone lights the way,
The little things that we do can sometimes change a life.

If we bring peace where there is hatred and always try to do what's right,
Then maybe when we are in their position they help us to see sun not gray.
A smile, a hug, a small act of kindness; letting them know it's alright.

The little things that we do can sometimes change a life.
It doesn't take much to make a difference, it's true! So again I'll say:
A smile, a hug, a small act of kindness; letting them know it's alright,
The little things that we do can sometimes change a life!

Good Friday: What is it and what’s so Good about it?!

What exactly is Good Friday and what is so good about it?! Jesus died and we put him there. He died in the most terrible way imaginable and did nothing wrong. As far as we are concerned, we killed our best hope for freedom because now he is dead and that isn’t anything to be happy or good about!

Good Friday is a day of extremes. It is a day of great and overwhelming sadness and a day of hope and joy. It is a day of suffering and agony and a freedom from them. It is a day of powerful evil and of far greater love, day of death and life, of end and of beginning. This is Good Friday. It is on this day that we are reminded of our sin and humanity. So often we are the throngs of people singing hymns and giving glory to God as on Palm Sunday and we are the same angry mob that demanded Jesus death on the cross; mocking jeering and spitting at our Lord and Savior. Yet, in all our sin and hatred not once did Jesus despise us. Rather he looked on his people with all the more love and compassion.

Only Jesus could make something as ugly as the cross into something so beautiful that it is one of the most recognized and venerated symbols today. His heart broke for us as on that cross he showed us the power of perfect love. It is said that love isn’t love until you give it away and Jesus said “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for a friend”. Jesus’s life was his love and he gave it away. It is sobering to think that after all I have done and will do that someone as perfect, powerful and great as God would look on me with love. To realize that he knows my name and calls me, and that he would call me friend, call me child is nothing short of amazing.

On Good Friday we have the opportunity to venerate the cross by kneeling down touching or kissing the cross; in doing so we can bring our troubles, our burdens, our joys, blessings, hopes, and dreams and give them to Jesus in a very real way. Jesus said “Come to me all you who are weary, you who are broken and burdened. Come to me and I shall give you rest; for my yoke is easy and my burden is light”. It is at the foot of the cross that all are equal and all can come; the rich and poor, sick and healthy, young and old.

No one has everything, but everyone has something and each of us are called to use what gifts we have been given to be salt and light for all around us; both around the block and around the world.

So Good Friday is Good in part because of it was on this day that through His death on the cross we might come to have life eternal, sin and death were defeated. Good ultimately prevailed over Evil. Jesus’ death and what would happen after was also made true when he said “Unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains just a grain of wheat. But if it dies, it bears much fruit. Whoever loves his life will lose it and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life”. In his death Jesus’ body and blood are the true bread and true wine given for the whole world. His death also has produced much fruit in the people today who follow Christ and his teachings. For more than 2000 years, people have come to believe and the faith has continued to survive, grow and even thrive throughout the years despite difficulties and trials. What would have happened and how would life be today if Jesus had saved himself from death on the cross, and didn’t die for our sins on that day? The world may never know and even though things are far from perfect, I thank God he did. That is Good.

Amen

The King of Victory

It was a Sunday not quite like any other. The time was near that Jesus would be handed over to the rulers of this world and be subject to them so that he might save many. On their way into the city of Jerusalem, Jesus sends two of his disciples ahead to bring him a donkey to ride in on and to say that the master has need of it. Jesus rides into the city on the back of a donkey and all around him celebrate and rejoice singing praise and giving glory. They lay their cloaks and palm branches which represent victory on the road ahead of Jesus for him to walk on. It truly is a joyous day in the city of David. No one there seems to have any idea that in one short week this parade of celebration would be no longer and many of these very same people would be parading him through these very same streets condemning him and calling for his death.

Jesus your life came full circle. Before you came into this world you entered Bethlehem outside of Jerusalem riding on the back of a donkey in your mother’s womb. A week before your death you would humble yourself once more and come ride into Jerusalem on the back of a donkey. A humble beast of burden, an animal that carries a heavy load and serves. You bore the weight of the cross and the weight of all of our sins and you served us faithfully even when we were not faithful to you. We are so much like the crowds that gathered on Palm Sunday; rejoicing, singing your praise and giving you glory one moment and the next moment we are also the ones who are calling for your death, mocking you and jeering. Still, you look upon us with endless love and mercy. You forgive us, you redeem us, and you call us quietly to return to you once again. You would suffer and die so that on the third day, we might finally see that no power on earth or hell or anything above can separate us from your love, and showing us once and for all you are the King of Victory! AMEN!

What Would Happen (If I said Yes)

What would happen if today I said yes?
What would happen if, for once, I stopped running?
Stopped running away and from, but after and to?
What would happen if I embraced my dark shadow,
And began to accept all of me: light and dark, bad and good?
Could I be whole once more? Could you love me?
Could I love me?

What would happen if today I said yes?
I wouldn’t be the same. Once taken, there is no going back.
What would happen if, at the edge of the known and the not known,
I close my eyes, brace myself, and take a leap of faith?
What would happen if I opened myself up to your will and your plan?
What would happen if you reached out your hand?
I would never need to be afraid or be truly alone because you are here.

What would happen if today I said yes?
What would happen if I prayed more, if I gave more?
How much more would my life be blessed than it already is now?
What would happen if I said yes to you and no to my desires?
There will be pain, but I will feel real joy, peace and satisfaction.

What would happen if today I said yes?
Saying yes is dangerous. It is not something to be taken lightly.
For it is not without pain, tears, suffering and hard times,
But saying yes means that I will grow, learn to truly love, and never be alone
Saying yes means becoming who I’m meant to be and being a man after your heart.
What would happen if today I said yes?

What would happen if today I said yes?
Saying yes is the first step on a long and winding journey
I have said yes. I have taken the path less travelled on...
And that has made ALL the difference!

AMEN.

You are my fortress Lord I run to you
In the shadow of your wings I am renewed
You are my shield Oh God my protector in the fight
In my deepest darkness you are most brilliant light
You are my stronghold I feel safe when you are around
I will trust in you and sing your goodness as the trumpets sound
You are my strong tower firm when I would so soon crumble
You are the safe place when lightning flashes and thunder rumbles
You are my refuge I run to you in times of desperate need
Your sacrifice took my chains so I could be freed
You are my shelter in the storms the wind and the rain
You are comfort when my life seems only pain
You are my sanctuary my place of perfect peace and rest
Help me when I struggle with knowing you know what’s best
You are my strength when I am drained and weak
You are light and hope when life is looking bleak
You are my help when I fall down and healer when I hurt
You aren’t worried about a little dirt
You are my sword my weapon against the powers of the dark
You are perfect and good and the contrast is stark
You are my King you are the ruler and I wish to serve
Give me the strength to do your will and not lose my nerve
You are my One you are my God I yearn to know you more
All this time it was you that I was really looking for
You are my life you are breath fill me with Lord with your spirit
And grant me the peace, silence, and grace to, in the silence, hear it
You are my direction the light unto my path and a lamp before me to guide
You are the way when I am lost you lead me your face from me do not hide
You are my all my everything you God make me whole
Create in me a clean heart Oh God and purify this fallen soul
You are my portion my provision and I am replete
Lost in the desert place you are my soul’s retreat
You are my redeemer my savior my and how could it be
That knowing all you do, you still would die for me
You are my friend my rock and my hope and joy and love
And for that I am grateful eternally as the Lord looks down from above

The seeds of truth and love and light are scattered all around
Some among thorns and rocks or on the path, but some will find good ground
These are the conditions in which our souls can be found
Those among rocky soil are shallow and cannot take hold
When the heat is on in life they wither truth be told
And at times it seems they act distant mechanical and cold
Amidst the thorns and weeds the souls that fall
Find their deaths in the earthly siren’s call
Thirdly they that fall on hardened soil build up a rugged wall
Response to pain or suffering one creates a shield
For fear of getting hurt again but needing to be healed
Difficult to break through or down to deliver truth revealed
Finally the soul that falls on fertile soil and grows deep root
Healthy and pure they bear plentiful and beautiful fruit
This can be our destiny and our lives can follow suit
At different times in our life our souls can be
Any one of the soul’s soils you see
But we can choose and act any of these
So let us strive without end to find good soil not to break but to bend
Not to weaken but to heal not to tear but mend and seal
Set your seal upon us Lord and help us have the strength and grace
Sign your name upon our hearts as we sign ourselves with the father son and holy spirit
Deliver us from temptation and sin to your heart Oh Lord and we pray for our soul’s deliverance

AMEN

Can’t seem to find the forest for the trees
Blind to what is right in front of me
Lying on a bed of leaves and life
Looking to the heavens with stoic sentinels
We sway with the changes a beautiful complex dance
Soaring high above the earth we are at once aware
Of being beyond our oneness there is unity togetherness
And yet we remain connected grounded
Each to another a patchwork quilt letting our light radiate
Letting the light penetrate and play and dance
Chasing, racing shadows tireless and inexhaustible
We are shadow and light broken and made whole
Embracing, facing our monsters rather than fleeing
Here we find the unbearable lightness of being
Have you ever heard the wolves’ chorus?
Haunting, melancholy, beautiful, and pure
Eerie and scary, but it holds some allure
Have you tasted all the colors and seen every flavor
Have you felt for something you could not possibly explain?
Tossed about like the ocean swells
A roiling turbulent sea violence chaos and confusion
Clear as through a looking glass a mirrored reflection
So too do I reflect and ponder trying hard
To dive deep below the depths with mystery cold and darkness
Looking for precious treasure long forgotten down below
Thunder crashes lightning flashes
Fire dancing across the sky
A resounding drum beat, throbbing, pulsing, and pounding
The lifeblood: heartbeat sounding
Dance to the beat of a different drum
Unique nonconforming to what the world declares this truth
Thinking feeling asking oneself not as lemmings following blind
Without questioning imminent death
We must judge, we must quest, we must seek, and we must answer
For ourselves that which is right, which is good, which is true.
To be open and free, but stay true to thyself to keep our identity
Sacrificing to help others without sacrificing our own integrity
That which makes us human, what makes us whole
The fires of hell burn hot and heavy
Earthly life is the crucible to help us be ready
Life and death both worlds apart and intimately close;
It is the perfect dichotomy. We are fire. The choice is ours.
Do we create or do we destroy?
What fire are we? What is it like?
The bonfire speaks of life’s truths:
Burning bright and hot and just as quickly passing, fading
As a shooting star streaks across the darkness
We may give warmth, light, and life
Or we may take life and consume all that is around us
So consumed we are with the world today we miss the magic of the moment
And so sometimes the smoke is thick and burns our eyes and we are blind
To that which is truly the most precious in our short lives?
Friends, family, and faith
For these three are relatively constant in time of constant flux
And help to give some meaning to the why of you and I

Lord, I’m longing to be in the light of your glory
I’m yearning to kneel at the foot of your throne
I hunger and thirst for your presence oh Lord
My soul longs for you, my spirit thirsts for you Oh Lord My God
How I wish I could spend just one day with you
To walk hand in hand down the heavenly streets
Just the two of us how beautiful and wonderful it would be
There is no greater feeling than the feeling I get when we are in synch
I can almost hear the trumpets blaring and joy fills the air
The feeling I get when you and I dance
Nothing compares Lord. Nothing comes close.
You are an oasis when I’m lost in the desert place,
You are a ray of light on a cloudy day.
Yours is the love of a father for his child
Yours are the hands that are rough and calloused with work yet soft, strong and gentle
Yours are the eyes that have taken in so much joy, so much suffering and everything in between
And still they are full of love, full of life and. They are kind eyes
Yours are the feet travelling many miles to find the lost again
Yours are the arms stretching out to hold the world close to you
Yours the heart with room enough for all and endless love
Yours is the way: the journey we take, the path we walk, the direction we try to follow
Yours is the truth: this is what we seek. We want to know truth, to know you. The truth that sets men free
Yours is the life: trying to imitate how you lived, loved. And the eternal life of a soul that rests in God.
You are peace when this world is at war
You are love when there seems nothing but hate
You are life for my soul like the air that I breathe
You are strength when I am at my weakest
You are good when my life is anything but
You are hope in times of great despair
You are light to drive away the darkness
You are true in the midst of many lies
You are perfect in my perfect imperfections
You are my God and I Am YOURS

Lord you bless abundantly those who obey your command
For if we would listen and take heed you have given the promised land
So often you have preformed great signs and wonders in our age
Then we celebrate and proclaim your holy name and give you thanks and praise
How soon do we forget your glorious works Oh Lord
How fickle we are; how quick to fall into discord
Forgetting just how blessed we are, we worship those false earthly pleasures
Lured into traps by sin that sparkles as golden treasures
Money power greed jealousy and especially lust
Cause me grief, leaving me empty, treasure destroyed by ashes and rust
Stolen by thieves and vanishing like the winds throw the dust
Please remind me how much I need you always and go deeper into trust
We have separated ourselves from you and for it we pay the price
The consequences of our sin; repercussions of our vice
You have shown us the great error of our thoughts our actions and our speech
But please remind us that no matter how far we fall we are never out of reach

That there is forgiveness and there is grace
That there is love and a warm embrace
When we turn our hearts back to you
Are honest in our confession
And earnest in our desire to surround myself in what is pure and true

The rulers of the earth take heed
Kings and leaders remember well
Respect the Lord and fear Him in kind
Tragedy and ruin happen when we stray from the way
When men conspire and plot and scheme
Bullets, broken glass and bodies lay
Families separated, a world in pain happy days a distant dream
There are those who serve money, popularity, fame, possessions
Other worldly things
But none can wholly satisfy no joy will they bring
As for me and my house we will serve the Lord
Try to live a life that resembles your love freely poured
Those who serve the Lord and fear Him are richly blessed indeed
And those who lose themselves in the Lord, find themselves more free
Happy are they who take refuge in the Lord and seek shelter in his arms

Everywhere I look: poverty, war and sickness
The only news on T.V. is negative. What is this?!
I feel so sorry for the poor, and hungry and lame
But I must remember Jesus has called us each by name.
Heart to heart; to love one another
Hand in hand as sister and brother.
It breaks my heart to see them suffering
I help because it is a good thing.
“They need more because they have less”
And realize later that God knows best.
Because while they might be “poor” and not have much,
They are rich in love and such.
Theirs is a faith so pure, and strong, and true
How poor I really was I never had a clue.
Now I can say in all honesty:
I gained a new perspective the day that you helped me!

The Fifth Joyful Mystery:
The Finding in the Temple: Mary and Joseph find Jesus in the Temple

Jesus is missing for several days and Mary and Joseph are frantic and filled with worry! Where could he be? After much searching and worrying, the find Jesus in the temple sitting and talking with the teachers and high religious people, talking, learning, and teaching. Mary and Joseph are overjoyed to have found their son at last! Through this mystery Lord we pray May we be like Mary and Joseph and though we may have been lost to you or couldn’t find you that eventually we do find you again and are rejoice and be filled with gladness and joy to once again be reunited with you! In the times when we are lost, may we be reassured that, when we come back to you or you find us, that we will all rejoice as you welcome us with open arms. We pray this in Your Name. Amen

The Fourth Joyful Mystery:
The Presentation: The Blessed Mother presents the Child Jesus in the Temple

As a good Christian family, Mary and Joseph presented their son Jesus at the temple as was custom to have their son consecrated and to give entrust him into the care of the Lord. We pray Oh Lord help us to present ourselves to you just as Mary and Joseph presented Jesus in the temple. Help us please to do this with a clean body and a clean soul as well as with joy as Mary and Joseph also surely did! Amen

The Third Joyful Mystery:
The Nativity: The ****** Mary gives birth to the Redeemer of the World

Mary is betrothed to Joseph when Caesar orders a census to take place. Joseph finds out that Mary is pregnant and he is thinking about quietly divorcing her when he has a dream. In this dream an angel appears to Joseph and tells him that the baby’s name is to be Jesus Emmanuel, meaning God with Us. Joseph, though scared and unsure, like Mary, also chooses to trust God that Mary was not pregnant by another man. Mary and Joseph travel all the way to Bethlehem where Joseph’s family lived. By the time they arrived in the little town, Mary was heavy with child. They could not find a place to stay for Mary to have her baby when finally they found a stable to spend the night at. The baby Jesus was born into poverty and humility. It was smelly and *****, uncomfortable and cold. Jesus was placed in a manger, a trough, where the animals ate and drank. His only guests were the farm animals there, a shepherd boy with his sheep, a poor drummer boy, and three wisemen who came from very far off to pay homage to him. The Christ Child was born into poverty and humility, yet there was also great happiness and peace that cold winter’s night (the first fruits of the church). We pray Thank you God for sending us your Son to be born of the ****** Mary and become a man like us. The Redeemer of the World was born in poverty and humility. Help us to remember that not everything is as it seems. It doesn’t matter how much we give as long as we give all that we can. For this, help us to remember the woman who gave all of what she had which was two copper coins. Savior of the World, help us receive you as the world once received you so long ago. We love you and thank you! Amen

Sunset

The sun slowly sinks to fall to the sea
Reminding us a little of how human life can be
Setting the world on fire with red and orange also purple and blue
Painting so beautifully the canvas of the sky
Some insects and animals wake up as the temperature starts to cool
The dwellers of the night are now the ones who rule
In the sunset there is both violence and peace
There is death and despair and hope
Signifying the end of one thing and the beginning of another
One of the most beautiful and romantic scenes the to be viewed
We have the pleasure of being able to experience it every day

Sunrise

Rub your sleep filled eyes it’s time again to rise
Stretch and yawn and fill your lungs and put a smile on
It is dark a new day is about to come in
All is quiet for now as the world slowly continues its spin
One by one the birds wake and begin their morning song
In a little while the whole world will start to sing along
Horizon tinted in orange red and gold
An infinite number of possibilities grand adventures untold
All the earth seems to stand still for a moment, frozen in time
What a grand event this is and it doesn’t cost a dime

Psalm 24 Alternate

Jesus you hold everything in your hands
All the earth, the sea, and every land
Take my soul and hold it close to your heart
Lord you know I desire a fresh start

And though I might sin in secret thinking I could hide
You are everywhere and to know you must have cried
I ask you for forgiveness, I beg for help and grace
But I go and set myself up to fall flat on my face

The song so aptly says it Lord I cannot think to add
Another word or phrase and it makes me glad:

We bow our hearts, we bend our knees
Oh Spirit come make us humble
We turn our eyes from evil things
Oh Lord we cast down our idols

Give us clean hands give us pure hearts
Let us not lift our souls to another
Give us clean hands give us pure hearts
Let us not lift our souls to another (X2)

Oh God let us be a generation that seeks
Seeks your face Oh God of Jacob (X2)

Lord, help me do what I know I must
To rid myself of the chains of worldly lusts
That I might be free to meet you on the mountain top
And allow me the strength to persevere and not to stop

You hold my life and all that I am
You are the Shepherd I am your little lamb
You are the poet I am the pen
You were, you are, you always have been

To you Oh Lord, I lift up my head my heart I open to you
You are great and mighty the victor over sin and death
May the King of Glory enter in and find a place of purity and truth
Help me re-consecrate all of me to all of you through my final breath

And though I fail both then and now my desire remains the same:
To try to live and act and love in a way that exalts Jesus’ name
I also ask you help me quiet me to hear the whispers of my soul
To know the perfect peace and rest that being in You brings
To be more attentive and open to the extraordinary glimpses of You in ordinary things
This will be or rather is now my goal

I look up at the million brilliant lights dancing in the heavens far above,
I see the moon and its soft and gentle glow and somehow I know.
I remember and believe the times we had together:
It was a love that we thought would last forever.

I smell the sweet flowers in the air; picture the wind rushing through your hair.
The days were long and we would run and laugh and play
We were young and we were free we were perfect, you and me,
And we thought that life would always be this way.

But the years went by and the days grew cold
You moved on and stories unfold
Some days I wonder what it was we had and why it’s gone away
I wonder what happened to us and if it was but an elaborate dream

I shake my head I just know that it was real;
There is just no mistaking what it is I feel.
Are there nights when you look out and feel the same?
I will cherish always both the joy and the pain.

Sometimes I still catch myself asking what might have been.
Then again what might have been is irrelevant:
I would not be who I am today were it not for you
I love you and our time together and I pray that you did too.

Kneeling at the foot of your cross
Before your presence I am at a loss
I seek your heart as you seek mine
I am bathed in your love divine
As I gaze upon your lovely face
I am drowned in the sea of your great grace
I look no further for you are here in this place
Lifting my heart and my hands to heaven so far above
I can feel the gentle power of your love
I'm asking please help me be quiet so I may hear and listen
Help me find the part of me that, so long, I've been missin'
Help me love you more and more
Remind me some things are worth fighting, even dying for
I am so weak Lord, I am so frail
But over sin and even death, still you prevail
Make my soul as a dove in flight
On the breeze of hope, the air of joy, and the winds of love alight
May your love be the song that I sing
And like a fire on the earth joy and peace I might bring
I yearn to know you more your heart your soul your mind
And I ask that I might know more in time

Bring me Oh Lord nearer now to Your Heart
Help me know you a little deeper than before
Help me love you a little deeper than I did
Help me to dance with every part of me
Help me to sing with every breath I have

Bring me Oh Lord nearer now to Your Heart
All that I have you gave me. All I have is Yours
Help me use what you have given me to give back to those around me
Help me to live a little closer to how You lived
Help me Lord when I am strong or weak

Bring me Oh Lord nearer now to Your Heart
Help me Lord that I may be humble and meek
Help me Lord that my soul be clean and my heart, pure
Lord let me seek to understand; to listen, to love
Let me seek to be patient, kind and compassionate

Bring me Oh Lord nearer now to Your Heart
Enter into my body and soul more completely
Consume me with Your mercy, love, and likeness
As I consume You may I see with clearer eyes and heart
A greater, more complete, and more powerful understanding;
Of the most beautiful, glorious, and mysterious gift you give

So to come a little nearer now to Your Heart

The Second Joyful Mystery:
The Visitation: Elizabeth greets Mary: ‘Blessed art thou among women and blessed is the fruit of thy womb!’


Mary travels miles to see her best friend, and cousin, Elizabeth who was also with child to share with her this great news! When Mary gets to her cousin’s house the two women great each other and Elizabeth’s baby leaps inside her womb in response to being in the presence of the Lord Jesus. Elizabeth is very happy and says to Mary “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb!” Elizabeth recognizes that Mary is truly blessed to conceive Jesus while still a ****** by the working of the Holy Spirit. Mary also recognizes she is truly blessed to bear the Christ child inside of her. She alone was chosen among women to house the savior and redeemer of the world. What amazing gifts God has given Mary! We pray to God May we, like Mary be blessed. Help us to receive you all the time and, like Elizabeth and her baby, may we give all praise and glory to you now and forever. May we leap for joy whenever we are near to you. Help us also to feel your presence daily. Amen

The First Joyful Mystery:
The Annunciation: The angel Gabriel appears to Mary, announcing she is to be the Mother of God

Mary is represented by the church. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit may be compared to an orange in that they are three parts, but the same fruit or nature. Peel, pulp/meat, and seeds. Jesus is the seeds that God put in Mary, the church and later Mary gives birth to Jesus. The angel Gabriel appears to Mary and tells her she is the Mother of God. Mary follows God’s will at all times like the church listens to God. Mary is very afraid, but trusts God and goes out to share the good news with her best friend, and cousin, Elizabeth. We pray Hail Mary full of grace, blessed are you indeed in many ways. Your immaculate conception, your carrying of Jesus in your womb, your being chosen to bear our savior. Oh holy Mother of God, pray for us sinners from our first cry to our final breath. Amen

If you saw all of me what would you say how would you feel
Some days it’s just a nightmare, but some days it seems all too real
I’m not as good as I’d like to be or how I might appear
If I’m not careful darkness creeps in and fills me with fear
It is a heavy thick blanket oppressing the light
It upsets me and I feel contrite

If you knew the secrets that dwell in the dark
And touched the faded scars that have made their mark
If you knew my sins and the things I’ve done wrong
Even though the difference between good and bad I’ve known all along
Could you know all of this and still choose to stay
Would it change anything would it turn you away?

There are memories I’d rather not relive
And sometimes I still find it hard to forgive
I have been at fault and I have failed before
Turned my back ran away or slammed the door
Could you go on with this knowing?
Would you still be okay if all of me was showing?

I am broken I am bruised may be down but I’m not out
While I have seen my share of troubles my spirit remains stout
My record isn’t spotless but I’ll often fight tooth and nail
My days are an adventure and my life a storied tale
I ask: when all is said and done
What will be your answer, could you be the one

I have wandered far and wide
I have shared laughter I’ve hung my head and cried
I have been in beautiful harmony and at times in discord
I have been despised sometimes and others I was adored
All this and more is part of who I am
A surprising lot in common with a little lamb

Prone to stray and get separated from the flock
Lost afraid and in trouble I find myself secured upon the rock
I know the voice of the one who leads me and who cares
He loves me still even when my soul is laid bare
Will you take me as I am and love me just the same?
This too I do for you to live as your love deserves: this will be my aim

There is a time for all things

There is a time for all things a time to laugh and love and live
A time to receive a time to make and a time to give
A time to work a time to play and a time to be blessed
A time for talking a time to listen and give it a rest

There is a time for all things a time for weeping and for sorrow
A time to remember the past and time to look forward to tomorrow
A time for family friends and loved ones a joy to be around
A time for knowing where your hope and joy are found

There is a time for all things a time for loss and for gain
A time both for times of growth and with them time for pain
A time for time alone with God in prayer and in thanksgiving
A time to ask for help when life seems unforgiving

There is a time for all things a time for healing and for prayer
A time to know that in all things God is always there
A time for peace a time for mercy and grace
A time to see in others Christ Jesus’ face

There is a time for all things a time for life and for death
A time to belong to Jesus through our last earthly breath
A time for ends and time for new beginnings
A time to take what seems like loss to change it into winnings

There is a time for all things under the moon the sun and stars
A time for learning and maturing and finding who we are
A time for trying to find our place in this world and God’s will
A time to thank him for his love and ask that our souls be still

There is a time for all things God has got the plan
A time to know just what God see’s in the heart of man
A time to question a time to walk by faith and not by sight
A time to believe that God knows best and he is right

There is a time for all things glorious and great
A time for love and a time for hate
A time for building and a time for destroying
A time for rushing and a time for enjoying

There is a time for all things in the time that we have here
A time that is important and something we should hold most dear
There is a time for all things
And for it, joyful, my heart sings

Everywhere

From the mountains to the valleys
From the skies so far above to the depths of the seas
From the poorest in the world to the rich in lofty seats
From the small town to the big city and every street
You are there, Lord you are everywhere

No matter where we are or what we do we cannot escape from you
Because You are there, Lord you are everywhere

The single mother with a baby and the one down on their knees
The outcast the unloved those who suffer from disease
The helpless and the broken burdened and betrayed
The forgotten or neglected happy just to greet another day
You are there, Lord the one who cares

No matter where we are or what we do we cannot run from you
Because You are there, Lord you are everywhere

For the widow and the orphan crying out for peace
For those who stand up asking violence to cease
For those who work to help and those who work to save
For the many whom, for their belief, their very lives they gave
You are there, Lord the one who loves

No matter where we are or what we do we cannot go from you
Because You are there, Lord you are everywhere

From our innermost thoughts to the deepest parts of us
When we love you and when we fuss
From what we are now to what someday we will be
When we tie ourselves with our choices and when we are set free
You are there, Lord the one who knows

No matter where we are or what we do we cannot hide from you
Because You are there, Lord you are everywhere


You are here in our midst as we gather as one
You are here with us when the hour has come

You are here when we come to you in prayer
Even when we do not feel you, still you are here

You are here at all times whether we want you or not
You never leave us even when we leave you and that means a lot

You are with us every minute and every hour
You are with us by our side when we are feeling satan’s power

You are with us always until the end of time and there forever after
You are with us in our tears, our sufferings, our joys, and our laughter


No matter where we are or what we do we cannot be away from you
Because You are there, Lord you are everywhere

These are the things I love

Running through the meadow in fields of wildflowers
The sun shining bright and gentle spring showers
The sound of waves gently kissing the beach
At night when the stars seem so close to reach
The warm summer stirring my hair
Knowing always my family will be there

These are some things I love

Fresh baked bread and homemade apple pie
A long happy day concluded with a tired sigh
Friends that are forever and love that is pure and true
Spending time with those I love and when I think of you
Being there for those in need and ones that are suffering
To take a bad day make it happy and the joy we bring

These are some things I enjoy

To lie on my back and watch the stars at night
Sunrise and sunset the glorious sight
To know in my heart what my eyes cannot see
Spirit soaring in flight with the eagles so wild and free
A cup of hot chocolate on a cold winter day
The blessings it brings when children obey

These are some things I adore

Take a moment now and then
To make a list you can use when
Joy in life seems hard to come along
Sing to yourself a happy song
If you try real hard to don a grin
I think you’ll see changes slowly begin
A little smile is a potent thing you know
Filling all around you with a warm and radiant glow

Regrets (Going Home)

I’m sitting at the stop light waiting for the light to turn green
Traffic is bad and I’m waiting for an hour it seems
The song on the radio is playing one from Red
And thoughts keep spinning ‘round, like a carousel in my head
I’m living like I’m driving: always moving but not taking time
To be in the moment or to read the signs
Going through the motions on autopilot every day
What more is there to life? Is there a better way?
What have I been missing that is hiding in plain sight?
There is more in this world outside my personal plight
You know I’m thinking about you now
And I sit here wondering how
You are doing and everything I’m missing
I had so many chances and here I am wishing
Hoping I could go back and do it all over again
To be there for you to be there for my best friend
I lost sight of what was truly important in pursuit of personal gain
I have all this money but the fact still remains:
I have no family now and money simply cannot fix
This emptiness inside the sadness from all this
I want you to know I’m sorry and I was so wrong
I never realized how much I had until all of it was gone
Please know I pray for you and for the kids whenever I can
I know I could’ve been better, been a Godlier man
I could’ve gone to church on Sundays, prayed a little more
I could’ve stood up for our family: a thing worth fighting for
If only I had been aware before all that I now know
I might have done things differently if so
I have come to understand a little a purpose far greater than me
Life is more than just a job, money, or nice things I believe
It is family, it is love, it is a something that you feel
In your heart, in your soul, and it is very real
Helping others, taking care of yourself, being there, showing love
These are all things that matters most if push comes down to shove
Then again it’s not too late to try to reconcile
I’ll take responsibility for consequences and go the extra mile
The only thing I would ask is to keep me in your prayers
And that you know wherever you go someone really cares
The song changes, the light turns and I continue heading home
To a place I can go back to no matter how far away I might roam

I Asked For Only

I asked for a shelter; you gave me your home
I asked for acceptance; you loved me as your own
I asked for love; you gave me your heart
I asked for patience; you were here from the start
I asked for understanding; you have been to the core
I asked for very little; you gave me so much more

I was a stranger; you welcomed me just the same
Outcast and without purpose; you gave me a name
I was in prison; you came and visited me
Troubled and confused; you opened my eyes to see
I was naked and without clothes; you gave me something to wear
Cold and exposed; you took the time to care
I was hungry and thirsty; you gave me water and bread
And in doing so, my soul was also fed
I was sad; you gave me comfort and dried my tears
Scared and alone; you quieted my fears

In all my years I only dreamed that I could be this blessed
Now this dream a reality never adequately expressed

Remember when we used to play outside until the sun went down
Remember when we used to laugh run and have no cares or worries
Remember how much brighter the sun was and colors radiant
Remember what it felt like to fly with the birds and swim in the sea
Remember how we were once young and fierce and free?

Now the world seems a little colder a little darker than before
Now it seems that little by little, life has somehow passed us by
We no longer know what it feels like to soar what it means to be alive
Full of concern we worry and fret we begin to forget
What things were like before we grew up.

Eyes so full of wonder filled with a sense of awe capturing each moment
Ears that take in every word every sound
Heart so filled with love and hope and more than big enough for all
Head full of hopes and dreams imagination and inspiration
Have a light and happy heart and never forget to bring your smile

There are many things we may end up teaching our kids one day
Important things to be sure
But our kids teach us and remind us where our focus should lie
Though we may not feel it sometimes they keep us young I would be remiss
If I forgot to mention the wisdom of a child is not a thing to dismiss

They look up to you and for better or for worse they are constantly watching
“I want to be a man like you” or “I want to marry a man just like daddy”
No sweeter words could a father hear, a greater gift no parent could ask for
Let us live our lives with balance: equal measures of youth and maturity
Of work and play, of fun and sincerity

May we have the grace to find balance in our lives
May we receive the judgment to put it into practice
And the peace that comes from having it realized

Amen

Noises and distractions abound
Calling out for our attention all clamoring
All the motion, all the lights, all the sound
Pulled apart in every direction, the hammering

Living in a society with life in constant chaos
Sensory overload and constantly connected to everything
In actuality totally disconnected to what really matters
Distant from people, apart from sadness and grief
Brain racing faster than a bullet train can’t get any sleep

Is there anyone as gone as I am today?
Losing the commotion of the world for a moment
It is then that we can begin to start finding ourselves
Finding who it is we really are and why we’re here
Connected with our joys, fears, hopes, sadness and dreams
So many wondrous things you can see when you cut yourself free

Breathe in deeply. Smell life, smell love, smell joy
Listen closely. Hear the symphony of life. Hear the song in your heart
Feel again. Feel warmth, peace, and light
Taste the spice of creativity and crave a zest for life
Touch the world. Reaching hearts and helping hands
Press pause or at least slow down

Lose yourself in the mystery the majesty of the moment
Discover yourself in the deep and the divine daily
See yourself in the stillness and the solitude of silence
Free yourself from fear from fame and fortune
Peaceful presence is yours in the power of perpetual prayer
Find yourself once more in Jesus Christ the Lord

If we were to somehow able to learn
The secret to happiness and peace
Perhaps we could then discern
Sometimes silence is sweet release

Close your eyes; sit in silence and in still
Empty yourself: be open, free, and calm
Watch, wait, listen: patiently let it fill
Until you find in your mind no qualm

Be alert and aware of what it is you feel
To know your soul is the goal, please do not dismiss
Define the lines between what is false and what is real,
Of all that is important, always remember this:

Take a moment now and then to search for who you are,
Know your heart and know yourself, be the best you can
Know this and know with confidence you can go so far
Try to see and bring out the best in every woman child and man

As I gaze upon the vast expanse of the night sky
As I look upon the greatness of the seas
As I ponder on the things I cannot know
As I dive into the deepest parts of me
It is there that I see and I come to believe
In the presence of one who at times reminds
The heart and soul of peace love truth there are signs
I am blind to my mistakes keep playing in my mind
There is chaos and sadness but sometimes I find
A love quiet and strong sadness and pain but hope in the rain
A stronghold a shelter when I am burdened and weak
It is here the presence resides that I seek
There is a longing an ache a burning I feel
So great that I am caused to kneel
But it is here somehow that something begins
In tears and in pain the great weight of my sins
Seems a little lighter and I know that God wins
He paid the greatest price on one fateful Friday
And He is faithful good and true in my day
Sadly it seems sometimes this world is forgetting
The kind of example that Jesus was setting
To show us the true meaning of life and love
What it is to be human and divine
A single candle in the dark can brightly shine
Illuminate my deepest darkest corners of me
Clear away the cobwebs, sweep away the dust
Clean this old house of pride, jealousy, and lust
Help me once again to see
Just how much you must love me

The Man

We are men: leaders in the world today
We are men: called to live in a Christ-like way
We are brothers fathers teachers sons
We are friends students husbands and then some
We are so many roles and responsibilities
We are trying to lead by example and have humility
We are far from perfect sinners its true
We are loved by the father so much he gave his life for me and you
What would happen if as men of God we could stand
Stood up for faith and family wouldn’t that be grand
In a world of deep darkness we are called to be light
In a society where wrong is good we are called to stand up for what’s right
Where there is hate in our lives we are called to be love
And we are called to give our lives if push came to shove
We are men of faith brothers in arms
Together and with God’s great grace we might avoid satan’s charms
Lord help us love our families be there for them always
Lord we are earnestly seeking you reveal to us your face
You are Prince of Peace, Lord of Lords, King of Kings
You are the creator, the author of the whole universe and of everything
We are men: like Joseph may our response be “Let it Be Done Unto Me”
We are men: each called for a reason very specially
We are men: trying to find ourselves in who you are
We are men: come from both near and far
Gathered in your presence we look to you for strength and peace
And pray one day for our children the violence and hurt would cease
Lead us to be better men
Teach us to be open then
Show us the way that is narrow and true
So we might live as men like you!

In the end we'll all make it to home
You aren't left out no matter where you roam
Everyone is welcome in God's heaven
The perfect example is 9-11
God owns a place in every person's heart
He has and will love you right from the start
Whatever you to has an impact on someone's life
For better or worse for relief or strife
One home sweet home to come to
So many chances to start anew
Life doesn't change to meet your needs
God is like the gardener pulling out sin like weeds
Trust and follow and obey your gut
Don't get too carried away and dig yourself a rut
Everyone needs support, encouragement, a lift
Every person should be loved just like a good gift
Home is so sweet but it can get a bitter taste
Savor the sweet and send off the bitter with haste
You have changed my life for good I wouldn't be the same
My time had no purpose... until you came
You keep my hopes up ever high
You always encourage me to touch the sky
Set goals, pass them, make another
These poems to me are almost like a second mother
I just feel safe behind these faithful words
I let my emotions sing like little morning birds

We're all the same no matter what we are
We are close together and not very far
Each of us is unique, none of us is exactly alike
They are people just like us, so why do we strike
Doesn't matter what your color eyes or hair,
Race or religion we should all play fair
You are you and I am me
Different but great friends you see
Why do we hate others in the world
We are all one string attached just tightly curled
Can we get along together one day
Peace to peace and heart to heart that's all you gotta say
Its really very simple it ain't that very hard
It could be just as simple as a hopeful little card
Why can't we seem to get along? Why do we have to fight?
Why can't we be happy every day and night?
It is just that little question that I ask
How hard can it be to do a tiny little task?
We're all the same when we go to die,
We're all the same in that we must ask why
Hating someone else isn't far from hating a friend
Would you hate that person with you to the end?
How is it that it is so hard to love yet so easy to hate
Its no problem breaking up but hard to find a date
So you see we're really all the same at the end of time
Which reminds me its the end of this rhyme

Forever is the longest time that there is
That's how long it seems to take until you're a ****
We are friends forever and a day
That's how long this bond will stay
But you can pass the time so quick when you're having fun
That is no problem when you have number two and one
When I'm feeling blue you make my day so happy
You get me really nice when I'm feeling snappy
You're having fun and you got some time to spare
When you're enjoying life you have no place to care
Sitting back relaxing allowing the time to pass
As you walk barefoot you are tickled by the grass
Forever never comes 'cuz forever doesn't end
You can't change forever or make it bend
Have the power to make life enjoyable
Then at times being you can be annoyable
I see a smile start to creep along your face
Even if the prey was lost don't give up the chase
Make the choices to your life's great path
One is good and the other bad now you do the math
We can't make your choices but we can help you
We can't force you, but we can tell you what to do
I couldn't have a better friend if I lived a million years
Wrote a million poems or shed a million tears
Thank you for helping me to see
Because of you I am a whole new me

I've been waiting so long to get you
In that time, my love grew
But now you have to leave so soon
I'd cry so hard my tears would reach the moon
Waiting so long to see you show a smile
Just let me remember you awhile
I remember back in those days of old
Sitting back and listening to stories told
You mean so much to me that I won't forget
When I opened up to you, you took my heart and stole it
You have been with me through bad times and good
I would say I love you if only I could
Help me to make the right choice not wrong
Its almost like I really knew you all along
Its been some time since we last talked a bit
Can we spend some time to casually talk and sit
When I look in one's eyes I can see their soul
Just in the eyes you can see one's whole
I'd like to know will I get to know you any better
And as I miss you my eyes are getting wetter
Thank you for being there my friend
I can't forget you until the end
Life is a roller-coaster of weather
I am worn but tough just like leather
I don't know how to thank you good enough
I see in you that you've got great stuff

You are part of something great I know
Always spreading joy wherever you go
Part of something bigger, part of something great
You are something special and I can't hardly wait
Give a little money, help a little poor,
Something very tiny can grow to so much more
You have to take in the whole thing to see
Why you are here and what you will come to be
It doesn't waltz in, you have to answer the call
Just helping people isn't nearly close to all
You may not know, but you changed my life today
Made my whole time better in each and every way
I am happier now just because of you
As to why you make me feel this way, I haven't got a clue!
Answer me this question: tell me true, don't lie
How you made a difference and don't forget the why!
If I lived another billion years
If I cried another billion tears
Nothing could ever change the fact that you're my friend
You always stuck with me to the very bitter end
I feel more safe when you are around
If ever I am in trouble you are always found
When you are close at hand I feel stronger
With your faith in me I can hold on a bit longer
I am there for you now and for always
I am beside you walking in the hallways.

What a powerful thing it is
Both killing and destroying, renewing, refreshing
Always changing always growing
Never pausing once

To slow down...

To STOP,


And take inventory of all that is around it
The beauty, the mystery, and with it, cold harsh reality
War, poverty, sickness, death
Love, Peace, Joy, Happiness

How incredible it is indeed
To be so capable of so much

Yet still cannot fathom
How Little it truly does know

Something about you makes me smile
Something about you makes me dance awhile
Something about you brightens my day
Something about you makes me feel special in every way
Something about you gives me comfort in the dark
Something about you makes me hit my mark
Something about you inspires a part of me
Something about you just makes me free
Something about you when I'm lost gives hope
Something about you feels like a safety rope
Something about you is making me write this song
Something about you I knew all along
Something about you when I'm steamed is cool
Something about you keeps me working like fuel
Something about you just makes me believe
Something about you helps me to receive
Something about you strikes me exponential
Something about you says great potential
Something about you seems like a miracle
Something about you is almost lyrical
Something about you is one and only
Something about you feels almost homely
Something about you fills me with great awe
Something about you is strong like a claw
Something about you is special and sweet
Something about you is undoubtedly neat
Together we are strong alone w are weak

Massive mountains tower above reaching to the sky
Overwhelming sense of smallness in the whole big scheme of things
Unfathomable is our own beating heart's desires
Natural beauty present in these majestic peaks
Tranquility on mountain-tops
Awe instilled by these terrible towers
Inspiring me to write a little rhyme
Nighttime when everything dies for a while

Simplicity is all around with fields of cotton above
Kindling the flame of imagination
Youthful do the skies make me feel

Window into the world as the eyes are to the soul
Amazing it truly is to see such potential
Turbulent waters in the water and in the soul
Electrified am I and alive I feel as I watch
Reflection upon this scene says natural beauty.

Hello, dear child. It is I, your Father.
I love you. Always and forever I love you and will never stop loving you. At times, like sheep, you wander and go astray. In danger you cry out. And I am there by your side to take you back safe and sound. Yes! I would leave the flock to find you and keep you safe. Have I not said I'd leave 99 to find the lost one? Would I not rejoice in a lost one returning home? Did the father not celebrate and run to his prodigal son when the son that was lost and spiritually dead came back? Amen, I say to you, I'll take you back with open arms. When you are weary and tired come to me and I will give you rest and strength. When you are scared or alone, run to me and in the shelter of my arms I'll give you peace and comfort. And if the way is dark, the path unclear; call out to me. Pray. Do not be afraid to ask and reach out. Does it not say "Seek and you shall find, ask and you shall receive, knock and the door shall be opened? Yes if you seek me with all your heart, you will find I am there with you". Amen I say to you, "Trust in Me. Do not worry about the things you need in life". Do not fret about the food you need to stay alive or about the clothes you need for your body. I will provide. See? How the little birds are provided for? How much more are you worth than the birds! Remember child: I am only a breath away. Remember child: how much I love you. Stretching out my arms and dying for you. I love you. Never forget that! I am your Father.
Love,
Daddy

I am forever changed; no I’ll never be the same
Since the day that you first came
Came into my life

I am a better person now I realize this is true
And it’s all because I had the joy
The joy of knowing you

You taught me how to love, to play, and live
And what I wouldn’t give to spend one more day
Just one more day with you

I learned about true friends and that it’s okay to cry
You were always there for me and I’ll never know
I’ll never know a better friend than you

You made a place inside my heart; it was there that you would stay
The time has come and you have gone away
Leaving me with a hole in my heart that will not leave

My love for you will never die
Though the tears my dry in time
Time will never erase the love I have for you

I miss you dearly my beloved friend
You are with us to the end
You are at our very core
Now be at peace forever more

Forever Friend



No matter the miles that stretch out between us,

No matter how far down the road you may be,

Even though, at this time, we rightly fuss

No distance is too great I hope you'll soon see.

When it comes to a forever friend.


In such short a time that I've been given

I've learned a few things

About laughing and loving and about livin',

God fearing women and the joy a smile brings;

These I have learned from a forever friend.


To share in the laughter, share in joy and in pain

To share in the tears and the moments so tender

To be rays of warm sun in the cold gray rain

These are the things forever friends engender.

These I have done and always will for my forever friend.


When the road gets too long and your world turns blue,

If your heart grows heavy and you feel weighted down,

Remember a bond far stronger than glue:

Close your eyes, count to ten, and turn around,

And there, close beside, is the forever friend.


For it is there, in the heart, that you can find

A part of them in you so close at hand.

Something there is; a connection of the strongest kind,

No distance, nor time, nor any other thing that cannot be spanned

By the love shared between forever friends.


And like Tigger so acutely does say:

Not good bye or farewell but TTFN

Its "Ta Ta For Now" until I see you again

You are never so far that you can't brighten my day

It makes me so proud that you are my forever friend!

Help me be humble and modest Lord. Bless the work that I do and let me do good things not so people notice me, rather I do them with a pure heart so as to give glory and honor to you and to help those who are in need. Help me remember the good feeling and the reward I get by helping those in need, especially those who cannot repay me.
The gift of their smile, their gratitude and the knowledge that I have made a difference and potentially changed someone's life is a reward far greater, more permanent, and longer lasting than any amount of money or accolades could ever have. Allow me not to become pompous and inflated when I am successful or praised. Remind me when I am tempted to do so that the gift I have been given comes first from you. Help me also to be appropriately gracious and thankful when I am praised or rewarded and keep me cognizant of the fact that, while it is ok to be rewarded for your work, it should never be the main reason for our work.

Still my restless soul and gently wrap me in your perfect peace. Many times I cannot see the way; it is dark and I cannot feel you near me. I begin to feel frightened and alone, I stumble and doubt. In all times, Lord, remind me that you are always near to me or send someone into my life to give me hope and light. Grant me the strength and the grace during the storms to overcome or ride them out with the hope that, before long, I shall once again be in the light of your presence. Forgive me when I doubt you Lord even knowing that you have always provided before and that I have nothing to fear. When I am tired and worn, weak and afraid help me to find comfort and rest in the shelter of your arms. Grant the grace and the strength to be a warrior of peace in a world that seems anything but. Let me sow love where there is hatred and peace where there is war. Help me to make even one person's life a little better and a little more peaceful before I pass from this world. Grant me the courage to stand up and speak out against wrongs and to show peace, love, justice, fairness, and equality by first living them myself.