It has been a wonderful Lenten season for me. I truly sense that these days of penitence have borne fruit in my life. I am grateful for God's grace that my prayer life has been enhanced through a stricter discipline embraced during these days. I was also touched by the goodness of people all across the state of Wyoming as I presented an RCIA retreat, a women's retreat, and gave two parish missions. Seeing the faith of God's people during these events was a real boost to my spiritual quests.
Finally, as I get older, the reality of my mortality seems to be more prevalent. Losing my mom last October, a brother-in-law last September, another brother-in-law the year before, and a number of friends in recent months, has been a sobering experience. Experiencing repeated health issues of my own reminds me that our time here on earth is limited. We are simply on a pilgrimage. We do not know the day nor the hour when we will be called home. Today's solemn service gives us the clear message to be prepared at all times.