Wanted to re-blog a quote I just read on another web site. I tell my kids all the time to spend as much time with your parents as you can because before you know it, they are gone. Fortunately for me, I feel like I did that rather than just thought about it. But the quote I just read is another that is worth thinking about on a regular basis....
Mark Twain...
"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.”
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Saturday, December 24, 2011
A Second Update - Our Holy Father
Just finished watching the Patriots beat the Dolphins. At the end of the game, I switched to EWTN and watched the Solemn Mass of Christmas Eve from the Vatican with Pope Benedict XVI. I am in awe of our Holy Father. I feel so connected to him for a few reasons. Although Pope John Paul II was much beloved, being in Formation in the Diaconate makes me feel so much closer. Having visited Rome and the Vatican a few years ago, it is another reason I feel more connected to Pope Benedict. Lastly, Pope Benedict is one of our most published Popes having written many, many books. I have read about 12 or so of his books and have at least another 16 or so in queue. Some are very deep and some are very simple with several in the middle. Having read so much by Pope Benedict, my faith has deepened due to his writings. In my studies of Vatican II, although both he and Pope JPII were present, I've paid special attention to his participation at Vatican II as well as his service under Pope JPII.
K and I are planning to go to Rome in 2013 with my brother and sister-in-law. Watching this, expecting that I will be taking the Rite of Acolyte in 2013 with my brothers in Formation makes my plans for this trip even more special. With the recent speculation on the health of the Holy Father by the media, he certainly looks fantastic at this Mass, especially for 85 years of age. Perhaps at this planned trip I'll have time to pray at the tomb of Pope John Paul II. Didn't get to spend much time at St Peter's Basilica in 2009. Watch for a few pictures of my previous trip to Rome in the next few days.
K and I are planning to go to Rome in 2013 with my brother and sister-in-law. Watching this, expecting that I will be taking the Rite of Acolyte in 2013 with my brothers in Formation makes my plans for this trip even more special. With the recent speculation on the health of the Holy Father by the media, he certainly looks fantastic at this Mass, especially for 85 years of age. Perhaps at this planned trip I'll have time to pray at the tomb of Pope John Paul II. Didn't get to spend much time at St Peter's Basilica in 2009. Watch for a few pictures of my previous trip to Rome in the next few days.
Vacation
For the first time in my career, I have a factory that is shut down and have enough vacation, that if I don't use it will lose it, so I am completely off next week. I'll sneak a bit of work in because I really like my job, but have a full week free. We take our usual vacation for two consecutive weeks in August and this year I get an extra week. Last year at this time, we were dealing with my mother's stroke and ultimate passing, so we are looking forward to a less stressfull Christmas and week off.
We are going to mass tomorrow for the first time ever since I won't be going to my parents house for Christmas for the first time ever. I get to watch the full Pats game. We've been going to the 4 PM mass for 25+ years. 10 AM tomorrow and then to my brother's house.
MERRY CHRISTMAS! Remember what this holiday is really about - the birth of our savior!
We are going to mass tomorrow for the first time ever since I won't be going to my parents house for Christmas for the first time ever. I get to watch the full Pats game. We've been going to the 4 PM mass for 25+ years. 10 AM tomorrow and then to my brother's house.
MERRY CHRISTMAS! Remember what this holiday is really about - the birth of our savior!
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Disappointment
Well, I was all amped up yesterday anticipating our new spa. It arrived early, and I had the location all prepped, at least I thought. Once the spa was on the pad, the overhang was a bit greater than what I expected based on the measurements I was given. First disappointment, as I could not just start filling with water. I was told I'd need to add some support under the edges that overhang so there was no risk of the spa shell fracturing. OK - I can deal with that, a few days of delay perhaps and under my control. Then I noticed an imperfection in the base on the perimeter on a side that shows. I thought it was a crack and so did the guys delivering the spa, but when I looked closer it was not, but still a manufacturing defect in the base. Fortunately K came home and knowing how much if a perfectionist I am, she agreed we should get a new one. The guys and the shop were very accommodating and apologized. So now it's about 4-5 weeks before another arrives and I'm left in the cold, depressed over the wait.
This bothered me all day, and still does to some degree. But late in the day, I was reminded how insignificant my little issue is. I got an email from a fellow parishioner to pray for the child of someone who was airlifted to Boston Children's Hospital. No other news, but just reflecting on that family having to deal with whatever issue with their child just days before Christmas whacked me in the head at how my little "problem" was so minor to what is really important. Another reminder from God that our time and how we choose to spend it is really the most important thing.
This bothered me all day, and still does to some degree. But late in the day, I was reminded how insignificant my little issue is. I got an email from a fellow parishioner to pray for the child of someone who was airlifted to Boston Children's Hospital. No other news, but just reflecting on that family having to deal with whatever issue with their child just days before Christmas whacked me in the head at how my little "problem" was so minor to what is really important. Another reminder from God that our time and how we choose to spend it is really the most important thing.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Busy-ness
A busy first half of the week. Meeting with my spiritual director this morning. Always an uplifting feeling after leaving that meeting. Tonight is our last class for our Little Rock Bible group reviewing the infancy narratives. Looking forward to it - assuming I can find time to do my homework!
Tomorrow have a meeting to attend mid-afternoon. Wednesday our new spa is delivered. We did the wiring on Saturday and I'm hoping we have enough wire at the spa to reach the connections.
Thursday, Friday and Saturday will be frantically trying to figure out something to buy K. My first plan went south. I quizzed the kids, M is trying to help but we've come up with nothing. She's offered to mall it with me - I dread hitting a mall this week! K thinks she is easy to buy for - I think not! Perhaps it's me...
Tomorrow have a meeting to attend mid-afternoon. Wednesday our new spa is delivered. We did the wiring on Saturday and I'm hoping we have enough wire at the spa to reach the connections.
Thursday, Friday and Saturday will be frantically trying to figure out something to buy K. My first plan went south. I quizzed the kids, M is trying to help but we've come up with nothing. She's offered to mall it with me - I dread hitting a mall this week! K thinks she is easy to buy for - I think not! Perhaps it's me...
Thursday, December 15, 2011
In NJ
Day 4 of the NY/NJ/PA trip. Good visits. Heading to Eatontown, NJ today and then working my way North in NJ before heading home early this evening. One week until Christmas, and I have no idea what to get my wife for Christmas. I certainly need to find something that reflects my love and appreciation for her - but what?
Help!
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Activities
Well, let's see....
Thursday this past week, we were fortunate enough to be invited to attend the installation of Bishop Peter Libasci. This was an invitation only event, and the Director of Diaconate Formation got all the deacon candidates invited to the installation. No one in the community missed this event. We were at the Cathedral by noon for the 2 PM litrugy. It was a tremendously moving event to see Cardinal O'Malley escort Bishop Peter to the chair, where he takes over the Diocese. From our seats it appeared Bishop Peter was overwhelmed emotionally by this event. I know I was and if he felt anything close to what I felt at our Rite of Candidacy, it is really hard to hold your emotions in check.
The Lawrence Eagle Tribune was at the event along with other media. They were looking for people from the area to interview, so I was volunteered. The link to the article: http://www.eagletribune.com/newhampshire/x1940558020/Libasci-becomes-NHs-new-bishop
A corny response, but I sincerely felt humbled to be in attendance at such an important event.
Friday, M was in a minor car accident. She had some vision issues and is wearing a patch on her eye at least until Monday when she sees the doctor. We have several medications and we're hoping everything will be closer to normal early in the week.
Today, Sunday, M gets confirmed by Bishop Christian at our parish. Like my son's confirmation, I am a lector, but for this, my son is an Extra-ordinary Eucharistic Minister, so a truly family event. Also, being in formation for the diaconate makes this even more special as I watch my children progress in their faith.
Tomorrow I head to NY/NJ for the week. I'm using the short break in classes to do some travel for work. This will be nice to spend the week visiting customers. As a sales person, I'll return next week expecting it to be a bit slow and then the Christmas holidays. With a factory shut down until Jan 3, I'll get to enjoy a forced vacation for the week that I've never had before in my career. After mom's passing alst year at this time, it will be a relief to not have to go through that stress this year.
Thursday this past week, we were fortunate enough to be invited to attend the installation of Bishop Peter Libasci. This was an invitation only event, and the Director of Diaconate Formation got all the deacon candidates invited to the installation. No one in the community missed this event. We were at the Cathedral by noon for the 2 PM litrugy. It was a tremendously moving event to see Cardinal O'Malley escort Bishop Peter to the chair, where he takes over the Diocese. From our seats it appeared Bishop Peter was overwhelmed emotionally by this event. I know I was and if he felt anything close to what I felt at our Rite of Candidacy, it is really hard to hold your emotions in check.
The Lawrence Eagle Tribune was at the event along with other media. They were looking for people from the area to interview, so I was volunteered. The link to the article: http://www.eagletribune.com/newhampshire/x1940558020/Libasci-becomes-NHs-new-bishop
A corny response, but I sincerely felt humbled to be in attendance at such an important event.
Friday, M was in a minor car accident. She had some vision issues and is wearing a patch on her eye at least until Monday when she sees the doctor. We have several medications and we're hoping everything will be closer to normal early in the week.
Today, Sunday, M gets confirmed by Bishop Christian at our parish. Like my son's confirmation, I am a lector, but for this, my son is an Extra-ordinary Eucharistic Minister, so a truly family event. Also, being in formation for the diaconate makes this even more special as I watch my children progress in their faith.
Tomorrow I head to NY/NJ for the week. I'm using the short break in classes to do some travel for work. This will be nice to spend the week visiting customers. As a sales person, I'll return next week expecting it to be a bit slow and then the Christmas holidays. With a factory shut down until Jan 3, I'll get to enjoy a forced vacation for the week that I've never had before in my career. After mom's passing alst year at this time, it will be a relief to not have to go through that stress this year.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
John 14:27
"Do not let your hearts be troubled or afraid." How often did Jesus stress peace? Why don't I recall this passage more frequently when my anxiety kicks in. Any worry over the last week was for nothing, as usual.
Our weekend on Homiletics was fantastic, facilitated by Fr Michael Medas from the Archdiocese of Boston. In just the first session, I went from fear to hope. From thinking I couldn't do this (even though I knew that was anxiety and fear) to confidence. Our formation directors have proposed that our homiletics practice will be by offering reflections of the readings we have during Liturgy of the Hours. So what do I do? I volunteer to lead a reflection at our next Formation Weekend in February. Now that's the way to overcome fear - volunteer to face it at the next possible opportunity.
Below are some photos. First is a photo of K and I with Fr Michael. Many thanks to him for the time this weekend, his guidance and prayers and providing us the tools to begin our journey in Homiletics. Following that photo are some pictures of our facilities for the weekend. Each time we arrive for a weekend, I am grateful for the environment that the diocese provides us as we continue on our journey.
Don't forget, click on the photos for a larger version
Our weekend on Homiletics was fantastic, facilitated by Fr Michael Medas from the Archdiocese of Boston. In just the first session, I went from fear to hope. From thinking I couldn't do this (even though I knew that was anxiety and fear) to confidence. Our formation directors have proposed that our homiletics practice will be by offering reflections of the readings we have during Liturgy of the Hours. So what do I do? I volunteer to lead a reflection at our next Formation Weekend in February. Now that's the way to overcome fear - volunteer to face it at the next possible opportunity.
Below are some photos. First is a photo of K and I with Fr Michael. Many thanks to him for the time this weekend, his guidance and prayers and providing us the tools to begin our journey in Homiletics. Following that photo are some pictures of our facilities for the weekend. Each time we arrive for a weekend, I am grateful for the environment that the diocese provides us as we continue on our journey.
Don't forget, click on the photos for a larger version
The facility - front
The facility - rear
The 'great room' - our meeting space for the weekend
The view from the great room
Friday, December 2, 2011
Homily
Well, we're off tomorrow for the weekend, up to Contoocook. Our Formation Weekend for Homiletics. It's an introduction, so not sure what to expect. We know the food will be great, lots of fresh coffee in the new coffee pots and great fellowship time with all the other candidates, their wives, other deacons and priests.
We've been assigned to lead night prayer. Not much anxiety there. When we first got assigned to do Morning Prayer a few months ago, we were frantically practicing in our room until 11 at night. Being a perfectionist is tough - I wanted to be flawless in my first outing leading the group. I even led the hymn - I bet everyone was glad they chimed in singing quickly. When even your mother can't bear to hear you sing, you know you have no voice. Anyway, I prepared for night prayer and although we haven't led it before, I'm comfortable enough for doing it for the first time. Perhaps the Lord has provided me peace in that forum, praying and leading the group. One of the candidates who is highly gifted with music brings music for all the sessions now, so that will be stress free.
So my anxiety for being tasked with a sample homily has subsided a bit. I'm still anxious and fearful of the unknown, but it is part of Formation and like my peers, I'll get through it, and certainly improve and become more comfortable over time.
Two days from now it will all be behind us and then we can look forward to our new spa and an upcoming trip for me to NY & NJ.
I'll write when we return if not sooner on how it went.
We've been assigned to lead night prayer. Not much anxiety there. When we first got assigned to do Morning Prayer a few months ago, we were frantically practicing in our room until 11 at night. Being a perfectionist is tough - I wanted to be flawless in my first outing leading the group. I even led the hymn - I bet everyone was glad they chimed in singing quickly. When even your mother can't bear to hear you sing, you know you have no voice. Anyway, I prepared for night prayer and although we haven't led it before, I'm comfortable enough for doing it for the first time. Perhaps the Lord has provided me peace in that forum, praying and leading the group. One of the candidates who is highly gifted with music brings music for all the sessions now, so that will be stress free.
So my anxiety for being tasked with a sample homily has subsided a bit. I'm still anxious and fearful of the unknown, but it is part of Formation and like my peers, I'll get through it, and certainly improve and become more comfortable over time.
Two days from now it will all be behind us and then we can look forward to our new spa and an upcoming trip for me to NY & NJ.
I'll write when we return if not sooner on how it went.
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