A wise person knows whether or not to say it."
Intelligence, prudence and wisdom are gifts indeed.
Please pray for these graces to be bestowed upon you by Almighty God.
"A smart person knows what to say.
A wise person knows whether or not to say it." Intelligence, prudence and wisdom are gifts indeed. Please pray for these graces to be bestowed upon you by Almighty God.
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The shadows you can see are just a few of the people grabbing photos of the (former) hearse in a rest area parking lot. One couple even got an opportunity to sit in the back of the hearse while the owner took their photo. The "LAST RESPONDER" was quite a hit at the rest area. As I watch the divisions within our country grow wider and wider, I will admit that I sometimes wonder if we are nearing the end of our republic. Will we simply be another nation following the path of so many empires before us? A rise to greatness ends with a ride in Stiffy's hearse after "the house divided against itself" succumbed to its wounds.
Wouldn't it be great if we go back in life and have a "do-over" of some things? I know that I would approach my high school education a little differently. I cared nothing about history and government classes when I was in high school. What a mistake that turned out to be! Understanding history is essential to keeping things in proper context so as to not make the same mistakes over and over again. Whether we like it or not, government impacts almost every aspect of our lives. It is wise to have at least a basic understanding of the principles of how we are governed. In the current election cycle we are hearing a lot about the U.S. Supreme Court. Can/should a president appoint someone to the U.S. Supreme Court so close to a presidential election? Obviously, the party in power has a different perspective than the other party. What is all the talk about "packing" the Supreme Court? The appointment of judges at the lower court levels is also gaining some attention. Term limits then usually arises in discussions like these. In my humble opinion, if we are going to look at term limits for judges, let's be sure we also look at them for our senators and representatives. I am not sure career politicians have served as well. On the other hand, many of them have done well for themselves. A former state representative once told, "When you start doing "well" instead of doing "good," it is time to get out. How refreshing is that? A politician working for the common good and not simply doing well for himself is something I could support. Eliminating the electoral college is on the agenda of some folks. What would be the end result if that happens? Is there any way we can move from a two-party system of government? Is it time to divide the United States of America into multiple countries? My dear readers, please pray for our nation. Regardless of who wins on November 3, it will not be a pretty scene on November 4? Actually, it would not surprise me if we don't know the winner until weeks/months after the election. That will certainly not be pretty either. May we truly be "one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all"! I walked around the lake at Lions Park in Cheyenne last Sunday enjoying the fall weather. The geese seemed to be enjoying the day as well. Now that another Friday has arrived, I am pondering what my weekend activities should be. I think I will schedule a nap for each day just to be on the safe side.
Anyway, I started thinking about what it would be like to be retired. Once a person leaves the daily grind of going to work every day, does it matter what day of the week it is any more? (Yes, it is these types of deep mysteries of life that keep me awake at night.) On a more serious note, offer a prayer of thanksgiving for God's many gifts. We are blessed indeed with the beauty of creation. Okay. I lived in Cheyenne for many years with the "Daddy of 'Em All." How does the Greeley Stampede stack up against Cheyenne Frontier Days? Greeley, Colorado I am looking forward to learning more about my new environment. Each place I have lived and worked has brought new experiences. I am grateful for the many opportunities that have come my way.
Reflection Questions: 1. Are you blooming right now where you are planted? (How are you making the world a better place?) 2. Do you bring joy to the people around you? How? 3. Are you growing in holiness with each passing day? If I asked you to present the evidence, how would you respond? How fervent is your prayer life? I want to encourage you today to pray the rosary. Meditate on the life of Jesus as you pray each mystery. Let grace permeate every fiber of your being as this scriptural prayer flows from your lips.
I recently visited the campus of the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley. It was a beautiful day and I enjoyed seeing the beginning of the fall foliage colors. It is a beautiful campus. The students were all dutifully wearing their masks. I noticed this with students even walking across campus completely alone. I guess the bear had taught them well. (There was no one within six feet of the bear at any time.) Let's ponder for a moment:
If you could formulate your own program of study for high school students, what courses would be required? If you could create one degree program for college, what would you develop? If you ran a college or university, what would be the worldview taught? If you ran a journalism program, what would be required of the students? Finally, is it possible to teach a course in ethics if there is no belief in God? Why do we need solid Catholic education institutions? If you could invite anyone, living or deceased, to come sit with you in the gazebo for one hour, who would you invite? What would your conversation center upon?
As I get older, I reflect more and more upon the people who have influenced my life through the years. My parents and siblings come to the forefront of my mind immediately. Other relatives and friends have made significant impacts at different phases of life. Religious leaders have helped nurture my faith life. The medical community has literally kept me alive. It is a little scary when I realize that I have allowed strangers to use their skills and knowledge to do some pretty intricate surgeries on my body. What would it be like to sit with Jesus in the flesh and have a conversation for one hour? How about John the Baptist? Take a moment to give thanks to God for the people who have touched your life in a positive way. Take a moment to pray for those who have hurt you. Seek God's grace and healing in a profound way. be touched by the healing love of the Divine Physician. As people of faith, we believe in the dignity and sacred value of each human life from conception through natural death. The world needs our faithful witness now more than ever. Will you stand up and be a voice for those unable to speak for themselves?
There seems to be a strain on society that is continuing to get worse. The divisions are real. The hate being spewed on social media is real. The country is at a tipping point, and the toll that it is taking on the average American cannot be denied. Most people simply want to live their lives in tranquility and peace. That does not seem to be an option in modern society.
People are hurting. The isolation is devastating to the mental health of people. The hypocrisy connected to the lock down only makes it worse. You can't visit a family member in the hospital, but the rules don't apply to celebrities. They can have loved ones by their side in the room and a personal photographer to capture every "tweet-worthy" moment. A family member dies and you can't have a regular funeral gathering. However, other people can have multiple funeral celebrations with large gatherings of people at each location. You can't get your haircut, but "important" people can. Anyway, you get the point. That is a bit disheartening. As I follow Twitter, I see individuals asking for prayers. People are still being diagnosed with serious illnesses. People are still experiencing tragedies and hardships--car wrecks, loss of job, financial ruin, broken relationships, addictions, etc. Life can be extremely difficult at times, and it can feel like an endurance test. Today, I simply want to offer you a word of encouragement. Hang in there. I think we could all use a walk in the park. A playful dog may enhance the experience as well. |
AuthorThis is my personal blog. The opinions expressed are those of Deacon Vernon and the blog's readers. This site operates independently and is not affiliated with any other entity. The information I provide is on an "as-is" basis. I make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of any information on this blog. I will not be liable for any errors or omissions in this information. Furthermore, I will not be liable for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use. |