tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77286842513863655712024-02-23T20:03:24.961-06:00Designs by BirgitA digital Catholic, pro-life, creativity scrapbook. ♥ Be sure to 'like' AND 'add to interest group' to see all proLIFE posts and memes.Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.comBlogger453125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-92106818308019202052020-01-21T21:23:00.002-06:002020-01-21T21:23:56.328-06:00Surrender to God’s Time and WillAs members of today’s instant gratification, fast paced society, we often shy away from objectives requiring more from us. In recognizing that time and results belong solely to God, we begin to Surrender to His Will.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CN02FOXxwg8/VH4tKL5sfpI/AAAAAAAAFJk/_iKWpwV1V9g28kg_jBdPySz3rA29vcO2ACPcBGAYYCw/s1600/young%2Bmary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="184" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CN02FOXxwg8/VH4tKL5sfpI/AAAAAAAAFJk/_iKWpwV1V9g28kg_jBdPySz3rA29vcO2ACPcBGAYYCw/s320/young%2Bmary.jpg" width="214" /></a><br />
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Following the Winding Path:<br />The Surrender Novena</h2>
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No, not the winding path! Instead give me the straight path. I want the simplicity of a quick and easy answer – and I want it now. Isn’t that what we want. Anything else seems just too difficult.</div>
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Oh, how we humans cling to this in many aspects of our lives! We are comfortable in our own little niche of the world and we like it that way. No muss, no fuss – that is how we define comfort and security. Yet how many times is that desire to keep things the same – to avoid the discomfort of change – detrimental to our growth?</div>
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Yet, change = growth. It has been said that nothing stays the same – things either get better or worse. However, if the truth be told, we would prefer the option to stagnate in our self-defined comfort zone. In addition, we also want the quick answers, prayers received, wishes granted.</div>
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<span style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-size: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">O Lord, give me patience and I want it right now!</span></div>
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What Does That Say About Faith? </h2>
Read more at <a href="http://catholiclifeinourtimes.com/surrender-novena-winding-path/" target="_blank">www.CatholicLifeInOurTimes.com </a></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-1261096999884597742018-07-23T15:50:00.000-05:002018-07-23T16:03:31.128-05:003 Ways Grace Helps Marriage <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Greetings! Birgit here, hoping you have reached out to my new blog at<a href="http://catholiclifeinourtimes.com/" target="_blank"> Catholic Life In Our Times</a>. If you haven't gotten the memo yet, here's your chance to jump in. Just follow the digest links below and you'll have arrived.<br />
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In an attempt to walk with you on the journey of a godly life, I write to share some experiences you might find familiar, with the hope of shedding some light on faith-filled insight and possibly a solution or two.<br />
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Thank you for reading and God bless!<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BadqLTQAuyo/W1ZB8auh4WI/AAAAAAAAGhs/ArvehNAcJGg7wRc2ljtpwVL8WX_DJHmIwCLcBGAs/s1600/flowers-260894_640.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="640" height="132" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BadqLTQAuyo/W1ZB8auh4WI/AAAAAAAAGhs/ArvehNAcJGg7wRc2ljtpwVL8WX_DJHmIwCLcBGAs/s200/flowers-260894_640.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-size: large;">1. </span><a href="http://catholiclifeinourtimes.com/mothers-illicit-marriage-strengthened-faith/" style="font-size: x-large;" target="_blank">My Mother’s Illicit Marriage Strengthened My Faith</a><br />
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<i>"As the first teachers of our children, parents face an important obligation. Not only their words, but their very actions dictate how children receive and live the gift of faith. Even mistakes, made and corrected, can be a shining beacon of hope for everlasting joy with God in Heaven."</i></blockquote>
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The Catechism of the Catholic Church upholds the <a href="http://www.scborromeo.org/ccc/p3s2c2a4.htm">biblical directive</a> that parents are the first (and most important) teachers of their children. What we often fail to realize is that what we do can have much more effect on our children than what we say or how we instruct. Who has not seen one of their less than desirable actions or words mimicked by a child and felt a sudden blush of guilt? Sometimes, though, a child learns an important lesson from the mistakes in a parent’s life, and how they rise to the occasion. That was the case for me; my mother's illicit marriage actually helped to strengthen my faith. (<a href="http://catholiclifeinourtimes.com/mothers-illicit-marriage-strengthened-faith/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">continue</span></a>)</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2. <a href="https://www.blogger.com/">Marriage: God First, Spouse Second, Children Third</a></span></h3>
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<i>"We're told to look out for #1, but as Catholic Christians we know that position belongs to God. His order of priorities for in marriage may surprise you too."</i></blockquote>
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Marriage is a hot button topic these days. The definition of marriage is challenged all around us, and the nuclear family is attacked by the secularized world. As the <a href="http://www.catholicstand.com/humanae-vitae-two-generations-later-is-more-interdisciplinary/">Humanae Vitae 2018 Symposium,</a> held at the University of America, recently confirmed the nuclear family is in danger. Yet, it is vitally important to the common good of society. The prevalent use of contraception has had a disastrous effect on families and society as a whole. Instead of reducing the number of abortions, which was the stated intent, abortions have actually increased during the upswing of contraception. The cheapening of sex, and the decline of respect for the procreative aspect of the marriage bed, has much to do with this. Leaving God, and His command to 'go forth and multiply', has largely been abandoned as well, leaving us with up-side-down values. (<a href="http://catholiclifeinourtimes.com/marriage-god-first-spouse-second-children-third/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">continue</span></a>)<br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-size: large;">3. <a href="http://catholiclifeinourtimes.com/reflections-17-year-old-bride/" target="_blank">Grace In Marriage:Reflections From a 17-Year-Old Bride</a></span></h3>
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<i>"What can a 17-year-old bride tell us about grace in marriage? You might be surprised to find that experience comes in all forms and from all ages."</i></blockquote>
Witnessing the constant attacks against the institution of marriage leaves us gasping for a moral resolution. Surely punishment similar to Sodom and Gomorrah is waiting in the wings for our fallen world. It isn't even necessary to list the many abhorrent sins against Holy Matrimony of our modern times. Unless you're hiding under a rock your are at least marginally aware. As Catholic Christians it's our duty to 'do something', but what?<br />
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What we need is a return to grace in marriage because God's grace is the only resolution. We all know that marriage isn't easy. As the two, who have become one, live past the ceremony and reception, they experience the reality of life. What holds the bond together for eternity is an influx of God's grace in marriage. (<a href="http://catholiclifeinourtimes.com/reflections-17-year-old-bride/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #9fc5e8;">continue</span></a>)</div>
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What sorts of stories can you tell about grace in marriage? Share your thoughts in the <a href="http://catholiclifeinourtimes.com/" target="_blank">comment boxes</a> of the links above.<br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-41794814888525395012018-01-23T09:22:00.000-06:002018-01-23T09:22:02.527-06:00Designs by Birgit is Moving<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_CfZc64o2aI/WmbXce_OdvI/AAAAAAAAGUg/5ojXmwQZ6BYG8Bih3iiWoBIzQbKw1qnxwCLcBGAs/s1600/moving.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="370" data-original-width="555" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_CfZc64o2aI/WmbXce_OdvI/AAAAAAAAGUg/5ojXmwQZ6BYG8Bih3iiWoBIzQbKw1qnxwCLcBGAs/s1600/moving.jpg" /></a></div>
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Hi all! I wanted to let you know that I am packing up my posts and moving over to a new WordPress site by the same name. My goal is to make my musings more viewer friendly and to add more free content for sharing.<br />
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Some of the changes you will see:<br />
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<li>The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit/" target="_blank">Pro-life memes</a> I create and share on Facebook will be available for free download and sharing or using for your parishes, pages, or blogs.</li>
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<li>Original artwork from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BenedictCatholicCreations/" target="_blank">Benedict Catholic Creations</a> will be available as well. My creative and talented daughter does an amazing job illustrating for your needs - both Catholic and nature. She also shares <a href="http://benedictcatholic.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">homeschool resources</a>.</li>
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<li>Content will feel more accessible and user friendly (I hope).</li>
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What won't change is my dedication to share messages of faith, life, and creativity. </div>
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Go check it out - I've added a few things already and will be working on getting settled in as quickly as possible. I hope you'll join me at the new <a href="http://designsbybirgit.com/" target="_blank">Designs by Birgit</a> location and consider sharing with your friends. </div>
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Thanks and God bless!<br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-44413596578578025172018-01-22T14:03:00.000-06:002018-01-22T14:03:24.680-06:00Sometimes Sharing Your Ordeal Blesses Other Victims<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T5Ha1EHxm50/WmECiF2cEsI/AAAAAAAAGUQ/lHBazNrFPooj4Rs0G_IJ7JO8KwgmH8_2gCLcBGAs/s1600/ordeal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="372" data-original-width="555" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T5Ha1EHxm50/WmECiF2cEsI/AAAAAAAAGUQ/lHBazNrFPooj4Rs0G_IJ7JO8KwgmH8_2gCLcBGAs/s1600/ordeal.jpg" /></a></div>
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Sharing a heart-wrenching ordeal can become a matter of rejoicing when it witnesses victory over evil. Not just survival, but a of a flourishing outcome makes a profound statement . By looking closely at every obstacle, struggle, and eventual victory in their lives, people have the ability to discover hope. Such examinations of the past can be an aid to hope for a fruitful future. Most victims who share this kind of witness are in no way attempting to find fame or fortune. Nor are they seeking attention – their fifteen minutes in the spotlight. Contrarily, the dredging up of the past brings tears, pain, and sometimes even nightmares. Yet the experience begs to be shared as a beacon of hope to those experiencing similar ordeals. <br />
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"God gives each one of us sufficient grace ever to know his holy will, and to do it fully." -St. Ignatius of Loyola</blockquote>
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After the Ordeal</h3>
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I was an inexperienced fourteen-year-old teen when my life was forever changed in a horrific eye-opening ordeal. The cute boy down the street had a <a href="http://designsbybirgit.blogspot.ca/2014/02/14-and-pregnant-is-life-over.html">violent side </a>and I was his naïve young victim. That I was not the only one affected goes without saying. Our family dynamic would never be the same. A new child was conceived.<br />
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The 1970’s were not like current times, with relaxed moral views and blasé reactions. Unwed motherhood was taboo and our family, Catholic and pro-life, hunkered down to await the new arrival. It was decided that the child, a boy, would be adopted by my parents and become a special sibling to us.</div>
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Life Moves On</h3>
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After the new addition arrived we continued our small town American life. Returning to school was unnerving but college was in my future, necessitating the prerequisite grades. Aside from a few hushed whispers, our tiny community continued on without much ado.<br />
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My parents stipulated that dating begin promptly at sixteen. Remarkably I met a young man who won approval from my parents almost immediately. Something I now recognize as Divine Providence. We dated throughout high school and married during my senior year. My husband and I tried unsuccessfully to persuade my mother to allow us to adopt my brother (son) but the mother-child connection they had developed was too strong. My mother simply couldn’t give up the three-year-old son she now called her own.<br />
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College-bound after completion of high school, four years later found me as a married college graduate with a one-year-old son. Life had successfully and beautifully moved on. The scholarship I had been denied (because I was married), the teen ordeal and subsequent birth, as well as the youthful marriage, had not marred my future. If anything, these life circumstances had enhanced my ability to cope with responsibility and the unexpected. The graces flowing from our sacramental <a href="http://designsbybirgit.blogspot.ca/2013/11/a-bakers-dozen-reflections-from-17-year.html">marriage</a> allowed us to weather any storm and remain committed to loving each other.</div>
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Career Blessings</h3>
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As unhindered as my education was, my career likewise flourished. The experience of my youth strengthened my drive to become a pro-life advocate. The BA acquired enhanced creative endeavors toward that goal. Tempered by the fire of the punitive ordeal, my organizational skills were finely honed as well. Life lessons had prepared me for numerous employment experiences including: Executive Director of pro-life groups, art teacher, and Field Representative for a pro-life U.S. Congressman.</div>
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Vocational Choice</h3>
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In the end, my strong vocation for a traditional family won out. My preeminent career move was achieved. Stay at home mother became the most rewarding career choice for me. First, as the mother of three children attending Catholic schools and then as a home educator.<br />
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Now that my own children are grown and parents in their own right, I continue to relish home life by having grandchildren around me as much as possible. The life I have lived, the life I am living was not hindered in any way by my adolescent ordeal. In some ways the experiences I endured prepared me for who I want to be today.<br />
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There were myriad options along the way – but the choices were mine to make. In the end, an early pregnancy did not prevent the achievement of becoming who God called me to be. I became exactly who I was meant to be: A woman with many choices, armed with strength and faith and endless possibilities.</div>
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Don’t Believe the Abortion Hype</h3>
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The telling of my experiences is in no way intended as a long list of self-congratulatory achievements. On the contrary, my hope is to inspire those who are thrust into similar circumstances. Never forget that Planned Parenthood and their ilk exist as money-making businesses whose success depends on taking the lives of helpless unborn babies by seducing their mothers by abortion promoting hype.<br />
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As with people who grow up in poverty, broken homes, and abuse, success is dependent on grace, a strong will, and faith in the human person who was created by an almighty God. He has endowed all people, from conception, with a right to life and an undeniable ability to achieve. To use an unexpected pregnancy as an excuse not to achieve is a morally bankrupt denial of the human will.</div>
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Abortion Hurts Society</h3>
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In my pro-life work, I have been privileged to know <a href="http://designsbybirgit.blogspot.ca/2014/04/what-stirs-your-pro-life-heart-beatrice.html">many women </a>who pulled themselves up out of their post-abortion desolation. Without fail, their regret is profound but their conviction for life is greater. Many of these women <a href="http://designsbybirgit.blogspot.ca/2014/04/i-am-one-of-faces-of-abortion-my-face.html">unselfishly relive</a> the most painful experience in their lives in an effort to help others. They speak and write and volunteer in their vocation as pro-life advocates. Their pain is unspeakable and lingering guilt drives them to a profoundly selfless love of others. Although forgiven, a passionate resolve to bring something positive out of past flawed choices makes them insightful ambassadors for life.<br />
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Let us all do as much as we can to promote a Culture of Life. Even if the conception occurred under <a href="http://www.catholicstand.com/who-is-deserving-of-life-and-love/">duress</a>. After all, the child is simply another,living victim of this ordeal and has a God-given right to life. There can be no excuses to negate the fact that these children are as much of gift of God as the planned child. Furthermore, we no longer live in a time of scientific ignorance – even <a href="https://www.princeton.edu/~prolife/articles/embryoquotes2.html">secular science</a> confirms life begins at fertilization. Likewise, our faith in God confirms that all people are conceived as equals – each life is important, no matter its origin. Educate yourself, speak out, and pray to end abortion.<br />
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And if you are a sister survivor, please consider sharing your <a href="http://www.catholicstand.com/who-is-deserving-of-life-and-love/">story</a> - no matter the circumstances or which choice you made. The goal in doing God's work is to work in His vineyard. How many women and their babies might He save as a result of your witness?<br />
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“God doesn’t require us to succeed; he only requires that you try.” Saint Teresa of Calcutta</blockquote>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-26695844696692746362018-01-03T12:43:00.000-06:002018-01-03T13:46:32.135-06:00Catholics, Planned Parenthood, Birth Control, and Heresy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nlxuS7pqxiI/Wk0hdVHYMbI/AAAAAAAAGT0/qqq7VMi-l9wyR32EsVX5fHE5Qg7KlJWyQCLcBGAs/s1600/pp%2Bmeme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="374" data-original-width="555" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nlxuS7pqxiI/Wk0hdVHYMbI/AAAAAAAAGT0/qqq7VMi-l9wyR32EsVX5fHE5Qg7KlJWyQCLcBGAs/s1600/pp%2Bmeme.jpg" /></a></div>
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In an effort to justify (and excuse) birth control and require those who conscientiously object to provide it to others, Planned Parenthood has come up with a cute little meme. As Christians everywhere traverse the dangerous territory of skewed morality, our rights to deeply held religious beliefs are being put to the test.<br />
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The pro-abortion faction is no longer satisfied with thrusting their ideology on everyone through straightforward advertising. Now they have devised a fraudulent method to entice Christians to conform to their way of thinking. Enter abortion giant, Planned Parenthood. Known for ‘cute’ ways of rationalizing deadly behavior; they have created memes for all of us to share.<br />
By choosing the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=ms.c.eJxlzMEJwEAMA8GODkuyTNx~%3BYyGvgO47LIuCTRIs9Y724JfmJe4QVDbebHpSVCl~_8iN9zQsckR~%3B9.bps.a.10155222119909639.1073741851.8934429638&type=1">meme</a> that indicates your belief system – Catholic, Baptist, Christian, Muslim, etc. – you can now brightly proclaim that you have deviated from long-held religious beliefs, no matter which form of faith you practice.<br />
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Let us be clear. The purported support is for access to birth control. What they really mean is that the Little Sisters of the Poor and other Christian groups, businesses, and organizations should be forced to provide free birth control, contrary to their firmly held religious beliefs.<br />
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The Counter-Planned Parenthood Meme</h3>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9xWVV88pt9w/Wk0jhYI8B5I/AAAAAAAAGUA/qVZlrrHYIYwoy6dmRWH50JKzF0jA-QHwwCLcBGAs/s1600/pp%2Bcounter%2Bmeme.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="278" data-original-width="304" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9xWVV88pt9w/Wk0jhYI8B5I/AAAAAAAAGUA/qVZlrrHYIYwoy6dmRWH50JKzF0jA-QHwwCLcBGAs/s1600/pp%2Bcounter%2Bmeme.JPG" /></a></div>
With righteous indignation, my daughter created a counter-meme. In this graphic, she exposes the heretical nature of supporting and using artificial contraception. After all, publicly and loudly proclaiming to support a practice that has been condemned by the Catholic Church since her inception certainly is not acceptable for Catholics. Not only does practicing birth control represent a sinful act for these individuals, but by their public support they are also leading others astray by <a href="http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/13506d.htm">scandal</a>.<br />
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The pulse racing response to the counter-meme has been enlightening. There have been arguments for using the pill for everything from acne to poly-cystic ovaries. Some stubbornly relate that the decision is ‘between me and my God”. Referencing <a href="https://www.naprotechnology.com/">Natural Family Planning</a> (NFP) for a preferable and healthy alternative has been mostly met with silence.<br />
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What Is Heresy?</h3>
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Another considerably negative response has been addressed toward the consideration of heresy being committed. I can understand the hesitancy in using the word – heresy – especially when seemly judging the souls of others. But is that what is intended? Is it possible that some of the accused may be committing heresy? Let’s take a very brief, historical walk through the Catholic Church and her approach to both birth control and heresy.<br />
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Let us first take a look at heresy and automatic excommunication. According to the 1983 <a href="https://www.catholic.com/index.php/qa/apart-from-abortion-are-there-other-sins-that-incur-automatic-excommunication">Code of Canon Law </a>(CIC), aside from abortion, “eight other sins carry the penalty of automatic excommunication: apostasy, heresy, schism (CIC 1364:1), violating the sacred species (CIC 1367), physically attacking the pope (CIC 1370:1), sacramentally absolving an accomplice in a sexual sin (CIC 1378:1), consecrating a bishop without authorization (CIC 1382), and directly violating the seal of confession (1388:1)”.<br />
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Here it is understood that “heresy is the obstinate doubt or denial, after baptism, of a defined Catholic doctrine”.<br />
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Citing Humanae Vitae and Popes</h3>
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Ever since (and before) Pope Paul VI promulgated his encyclical, Humanae Vitae (Of Human Life), the highest Catholic authority has held to the prohibition of all forms of artificial birth control/contraception. While this teaching was difficult to accept by some, its affirmation of the consistent moral teaching of the Church on the sanctity of life was fervently upheld - by both Saint Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI.<br />
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This uninterrupted teaching of Catholic Doctrine affirms the danger of contraception to the life of marriage/family (and therefore society as a whole). Given the medically confirmed fact that the Pill (as well as some other forms of birth control) acts as an <a href="http://abort73.com/abortion_facts/which_birth_control_methods_cause_abortion/">abortifacient</a> agent, the consequences progress even to the ending of unborn life.<br />
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Therefore, ignoring this clear position of the Church or doing the mental gymnastics required to justify the use of birth control, could indicate an “…obstinate doubt or denial, after baptism, of a defined Catholic doctrine” – heresy.<br />
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Just because birth control, per se, was not specifically mentioned does not negate the severity of departing from a position held by the Church since its inception. Can you imagine how long the list would be if each and every form of heretical belief was individually listed?<br />
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<h3>
When Is It Not Heresy?</h3>
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It is vitally important for Catholics to realize that “No one is automatically excommunicated for any offense if, without any fault of his own, he was unaware that he was violating a law (CIC 1323:2) or that a penalty was attached to the law (CIC 1324:1:9). The same applies if one was a minor, had the imperfect use of reason, was forced through grave or relatively grave fear, was forced through serious inconvenience, or in certain other circumstances (CIC 1324)".<br />
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However, I do submit that this stubbornly held belief (contrary to irrevocable Church teaching), shouted to the world, can become heretical. Willful ignorance, after being informed of Church law, is also a means of denial.<br />
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Meme vs. Meme</h3>
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Planned Parenthood persists in twisting and misrepresenting people of faith. Historically, their meme <a href="https://www.plannedparenthoodaction.org/fight-for-birth-control/take-action">campaigns</a> rely on misinformation and skewed logic. Bright colors and catchphrases are employed to grab the attention of the public and lead them to accept a misconstrued sort of reality. When countering sound bites and eye-catching graphics, a similar approach often brings the misconception to light. In creating a similar meme, many people are given the corrected message.<br />
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Discussions and even heated debates allowed the truth to break to the surface. I daresay that many Catholics were lead to reexamine their own consciences concerning the topic of birth control and the Church. To this extent, even with the misgivings of some, fighting fire with fire elicited a response that was both educational and effective. Is this method everyone’s cup of tea? No. Just as pro-life advocates and even saints employ(ed) different means of preaching the Gospel, the tone of memes are subject to the particular approach of the messenger.<br />
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So, was the intention of the countering meme to unequivocally imply that every woman using birth control is a heretic? Absolutely not. However, I do submit that this stubbornly held belief (dangerously contrary to irrevocable Church teaching), shouted to the world, can become heretical.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-30187098649931007312017-12-24T12:52:00.002-06:002017-12-24T12:52:32.405-06:006 Things About Christmas You Might Not Know<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /><br />At my age of ‘slightly 60’ you’d think I’d know a thing or two about the Season. After all, I've faithfully celebrated Christmas my entire life. Yet a couple of these revelations surprised me. They might just surprise you too!<div>
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Why We Hang Stockings</h3>
<br />Why do we hang stockings at Christmas? Watch this brief, informative <a href="https://www.facebook.com/goalcast/videos/1678441322233051/">video</a> so find out about the true story of the REAL Santa Claus.</div>
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The Christmas Tree</h3>
<br />We’ve often heard that the Christmas Tree has pagan origins. What is it with people accusing the Catholic Church of either being pagan or usurping pagan holidays and symbols? Here is <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fchurchpop.com%2F2017%2F12%2F18%2Fcatholic-origins-christmas-tree%2F&h=ATOSuzoSAQ1QTbv-yHSvJbttDtbDN_Pc6LXDdYF22IaRQDv9s5981JZZfhEQL2PWraokck1Fe8szaK0HwgRjnZ4m7Z-YMhRxP5Hpwu6CewpgmUnZHuKao8ZUMydiCcDAL1BUF_ygnuSzrc2MxP0QljdeAsB2nPcNGUCvz7L2HEOqXV3p6aqhLems6hh1ZNtXx_h8fbUHDLzSXTPtmEIiyt8GJsc6frWGnqvdellEDECPJYkLLMpzFocMz878A5s0iFHtBYtxRwJqKTi2_I1uW9TP7Xv4mB92AEik">another take</a> on the subject that has a much more<i> saintly</i> tone.</div>
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Biological and Chronological Reason to Believe Jesus Was Born in December</h3>
<br />We’ve all heard the naysayers, “No one knows when Jesus was truly born. People just had to pick a date and so they transferred His birth to a pagan holiday”. Well, there might just be a few <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Faleteia.org%2F2017%2F12%2F10%2Fbiological-evidence-that-jesus-actually-was-born-in-december%2F&h=ATO5ev-gHGhtuaHCNpVO9UTLozj9tfxgRiKe03AVqF6--big6Ef64frqFOnZHTgJtXuThwCzICYEmtQygeXZtjj4AkG50v5sjy-pdW_ZJenicZ4h-MRwNaDhIpcghpFVS7VNMONZFmcqjAVj6n4wGt5b1gojfTACbRBMPrJOxIlJ7AUhh5T8NuOIOqQtMMJxtgzyilX3Mrzkfk2eA33kAYnbNuLOCS9lhth7cEgfO2aS8PbRDFPemT4mQaibck0TlOFD8jXnnwStN8bpZK2wS6uAbSUX1dGIhTEl">pieces of proof</a>, found both in scripture and the calendar.<br /><br />For another take, check out this helpful <a href="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fgoo.gl%2FihW8Lm&h=ATMboNgwr_nHrrNE43uY7FUfZWlzbla8luNDXhh-NcLLRgJCfiy0GsZpgxyVGS7iltM_xNTFOGnnlQd3NF6oDNo5IA97WqBDHijvWzgB3uclqjs-4fMadHTDRPlBhmxy4Y3bOuufRe4Q0twPt17sc9inx-T4zLpkncHJJXPoIMUkBGR9ahuWtk85nLvxkGM0-LhQGuTPeKfak_iLoyk3YiZVCVEnwQdZwpZeu_tOrOXhIgOeMjA75v1QcixG20uIERjmPUCZNtDlDRm6ddm3IOjFMDu-p68GgpRL">information</a>.</div>
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The Significance of Swaddling Clothes</h3>
<br />Do you know the significance of Jesus being swaddled at birth? Watch this <a href="https://www.facebook.com/myfaithvotes/videos/1520113641357563/">brief video</a>! Jesus truly is the Lamb of God!</div>
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Jesus' Birth in Bethlehem Prefigures the Eucharist</h3>
<br />What's amazing is that from the first instant of the Incarnation (God made Man) we were given a discourse on the Eucharist. There have always been subtle ways that point to Christ's role in our Salvation.<br /><br />Bethel - Means the House of God.<br />Bethelehem - Means House of Bread.<br />LaMange (the manger) - Means t o consume.<div>
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The Season of Christmas BEGINs on Christmas</h3>
<br />Contrary to popular sentiment on the Hallmark Channel or children’s stories, Christmas is a Season. The days leading up to this Season is the Season of Advent (now celebrated for four weeks in most churches). Christmas Eve ends Advent and Christmas Day heralds the Season of Christmas. Check out the neatly laid out basics by <a href="http://www.ncregister.com/blog/mfenelon/dec.-25-marks-the-beginning-not-the-end-of-the-christmas-season">National Catholic Register</a>.<br /><br />So, there we have it, some things you may or may not have known about Christmas. How many were already familiar to you? Let us know in the comments. Three of these were news to me!</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-51948453780883586772017-12-17T08:43:00.002-06:002017-12-17T14:14:35.611-06:00We Need Advent to Properly Celebrate Christmas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Leading up to the festivities of Christmas, Advent can bring many pressures to an already hectic time. Keeping Christ in Christmas is certainly our first objective but life's realities must garner our attention as well. Balance needs to be found so that you approach the Season in a way that is right for <i>you</i>. As an individual, your life is unlike the life of any other. Your family responsibilities, job obligations, and the things that just happen - this all fits into the equation of what makes up the entire picture of your life.<br />
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Sometimes stepping back and looking at the whole picture is a helpful means of finding balance for your reality.</div>
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1. Don't feel inadequate because you are not keeping up with all of the many opportunities to have the best Advent ever. You cannot do it all. You probably are not even able to fulfill your own personalized agenda each and every day. Be honest with yourself and grab onto the things you can do and prioritize. That way, your spiritual life will remain at the top but, your other duties will also stand a chance. <br />
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2. Instead savor Advent - a season purposely focused on waiting and preparation. Every day, try to find a quiet moment to allow God to fill the spaces in your heart that need comfort, courage, and grace. For a mom, that might only be available early in the morning, late at night, or while waiting in the car while performing mom’s taxi service. Yet, you can make it special nonetheless. Breathe deeply and invite Him in.<br />
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3. Do not think you have to be Martha Stewart or recreate every 'wow' project on Pinterest, some years I make the most perfect cookies, from scratch. There are the cookies of my German heritage and there are the cookies that look picture perfect with colorful icing. I manage to get it all in because I feel inspired and because life has allowed it that year. Other years, it simply fails to happen. There might be too many choir and Christmas play practices. Or maybe I have chosen to sew a few gifts. Sometimes I simply feel uninspired. I have had to learn to just let life ebb and flow. The main thing is to make it to confession, prepare for His Coming, and to make sure others feel (and see) Christ's love in me.<br />
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4. Instead simplify by choosing one or two things per day, so that you can enjoy Advent with your family. Maybe you are like me and you want to be structured but your mind wanders restlessly between all of the objectives I have set up for myself. When that feeling threatens to steal my peace of mind, I go to the time-honored system of list making. The list begins with the most important objectives and dwindles down to the optional. If I set my mind to completing the items on my list, one at a time, it all of a sudden becomes doable.<br />
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5. So the second (or third) Sunday of Advent has come and gone. Don't throw your hands up in despair because Advent has already begun and you're feeling behind. Is it really too late? Not a chance. Remember, we serve a God of many chances. However many days remain, that is how many opportunities you still have to 'get with the program'. What is your hold up? Start today!<br />
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6. Don't over emphasize the material - whether it's preparing a feast (or replicating a French pastry shop), gifting, or decor. Some years the financial picture is less promising than you would like. That is the year that you give from the heart. Some of the most memorable gifts have been the ones that cost very little but hit just the right spot in the heart. Bags made for the girls out of left over fabric, a heritage cookbook, or a specially handcrafted booklet. These are actually the ones most cherished. <br />
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8. In the rushed and demanding days leading up to family gatherings, savor each aspect, make each prayer, book, project or gift sublimely important by pouring your love into it. Allow Jesus to sit at your side and offer these gifts to Him as well.<br />
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When everything on your list is checked off, the last package is wrapped, and your special times with Jesus have strengthened your spirit, that is when you will become most aware of the beauty of the Season. The glow of the faces around you as you attend Mass, the soothing nourishment your soul receives when receiving Him in the Eucharist, and the afterglow of the remembrance of a humble Child Who came to save us all - that will be your Gift.<br />
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The hurry and worry will be washed away. Your preparation and readiness to greet Him will all fall into place and you will realize that we truly need the anticipatory time of Advent to fully celebrate Christmas.<br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-34954773287798881502017-12-15T13:39:00.002-06:002017-12-15T13:39:39.524-06:00The Advent Season, For Us and For Others<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /><br />Everything about the First Sunday of Advent urged us to be ready. We heard about those who were wise and prepared and those who were foolish and did not. Staying awake, not in the literal sense of losing sleep but in preparedness, is the order of the Advent Season.<br /><br />We are reminded to look at the many ways we diligently prepare in our earthly lives. Only a fool would fail to prepare for a hurricane by attentively watching the weather and battening down the hatches. It would be a poor host who was ill prepared when anticipating holiday guests. If, like my own community, there is a contaminated water boil advisory. Do we not boil even the water for washing dishes?<br /><br />Yet, as detrimental to our well being it would be for us to scoff at weather, important events, or cautionary community announcements how much more important is preparation for the King of Kings?<br /><br />Seasons like Advent and Lent bring the urgency of preparation even closer to the forefront. After all, the worst disaster imaginable is the loss of Eternal life in Heaven. The ultimate expected Guest is Jesus and the most harmful contamination is the stain of sin on our souls. <div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-76186474971086095422017-07-19T17:18:00.003-05:002017-07-19T17:18:34.115-05:00Who Is My Neighbor in the World of Today?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />In the book of <a href="http://biblehub.com/drb/luke/10.htm">Luke</a>, an expert in the law asks, "Who is my neighbor?" Jesus responds with the parable of the Good Samaritan. His examples guide us through several encounters with an injured man - all with diverse responses. Jesus then turns to the lawyer and asks:<br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">
Which of these three, in thy opin ion, was neighbour to him that fell among the robbers? But he said: He that showed mercy to him. And Jesus said to him: Go, and do thou in like manner.</blockquote>
<br />Digging deeper into the basis of this story, I find myself wondering how many minute details are regularly missed when it comes to the coincidental encounters we all experience.<div>
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In Search Of Neighbor</h3>
<br />Ever since my husband and I temporarily moved into a duplex while our tiny house was completed, the family across the way has intrigued me. Unlike the remote, pastoral surroundings of our new home, here we have close neighbors all around. We have become acquainted with some of them. Like us, the neighbor behind us also has a small dog, with a propensity for escaping her allowable geography, which has given us occasions for casual conversation. Next door, a precocious neighbor toddler is the same age as our youngest granddaughter and across the street, a neighbor dutifully cares for the needs of her aging mother. By chance encounters and common interests, I've found small familiarities with these families.<br /><br />One neighbor, however, I have not met yet am intrigued by chance observations. Passively sitting in the driveway while the rest of our downsized belongings are loaded onto a small trailer, I ponder on the insight I have gained, just by reflective attention to a few details.</div>
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Physical Challenges</h3>
<br />If we are willing, there is much to be discerned by a casual glance now and again. This particular neighbor suffers from some debilitating physical ailment. Handicap plates on the car, the glimpse of a wheelchair, and thoughtful placement of a strategically situated side table speaks of someone who loves the outdoors but is confined to the inside while looking out. Sometimes there is a game of chess visible on the little table in front of the gleaming glass door but even so, the preferred vantage point is always outdoors.</div>
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Love of Nature</h3>
<br />There are robust hanging plants, thriving plants in pots, and a rainbow of vibrant flowerbeds all around the front yard. Their splendid garden features a riot of color. Nurture and care of this Eden are clearly evident.<br /><br />This neighbor shares my love of animals. A chance glance in his direction gives a glimpse of not one but two cats, casually strolling past the glass door and then luxuriously perching on the sofa. At just about dusk each evening they head out to prowl and do what it is that our feline friends do under the cover of darkness. They quickly return to the welcoming arms of their humans, which indicates they feel loved.<br /><br />Along with the array of blossoms, foliage, and pampered cats are several bird feeders - finches, robins, and humming birds all have their own specific feeding station. All of this appears to be easily viewable from the carefully arranged furnishings and the glass door.</div>
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Our Neighbor Is Tidy And Has Nothing to Hide</h3>
<br />Despite the obvious physical challenges faced, the yard and drive are meticulously kept. No offensive litter, neatly clipped grass, and much attention to order are evident in their landscape. Our neighbor portrays a tidy habit.<br /><br />Open blinds, windows, and doors speak of the candid nature of our neighbor - there is nothing superficial. As open as a book, this person is living a full life despite the burdensome hand they have been dealt. There is a pure appreciation of life evident here and a richness not provided by merely temporal goods. By all appearances this neighbor finds boundless joy, fulfillment, and peace in what he has been given. His cup seems to overflow with an almost enviable God-given plenitude of riches.</div>
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Interact With Neighbor</h3>
<br />As I sit here today, our last day of inhabiting this bustling neighborhood, I can't help but wonder about the lives of the people we never came to know. Like us, they may be in transition. Some, like the elderly neighbor, are most likely here to stay – as their lives tranquility follow the setting of the sun.<br /><br />I've spontaneously prayed for these people, as they appeared out of their doorways and enclosures and have marveled at how much God loves each of us no matter how different our lives have been or are destined to be.</div>
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Opportunities Missed?</h3>
<br />What fruitful opportunities were missed and are now regrettably gone forever? Should I have crossed the street and struck up conversations? In retrospect, I inwardly answer, yes. Would I have found a receptive soul? Perhaps, I could have learned something of benefit to my own Eternity. What is done, is done, but a lesson to take away is to seek out opportunities and not blindly march through our days as single-minded, secluded souls.<br /><br />The question I ponder now, is how will I present myself as a Godly witness to others? How will I show mercy to a mere acquaintance ? Not in search of worldly praise but as a spiritually positive example of what it means to be a neighbor who is obedient to Christ. Are others' casual impressions of me valid or negatively warped by a lack of transparency or some faulty perception? Even as we seek to live our lives in the best way possible, we are reminded that our lives give witness to neighbor, concerning who we are.</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-63428178609498356742017-03-06T13:00:00.000-06:002017-03-07T10:18:40.927-06:00The Painful Punishment of Silence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Silence, they say is golden, yet under some circumstances silence can also be a form of bullying. While the basic needs of mankind include sustenance and shelter God has also endowed us with an intrinsic need for love. That love often relies on communication. We live our lives yearning being heard and understood.<br />
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The Quiet Bullying of Silence</h3>
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There is a healthy use of silence to compose our thoughts and calm anger which can be of great benefit but sometimes an extended period of punishing silence causes pain to the other. In one way or another, we have all used silence as a weapon against another. Showing a cold shoulder or ignoring someone because of some real or imagined indiscretion can be a pain inflicting tactic. Whether a school friend or significant other, sometimes our intent is to inflict the pain of denying the victim our company. In self-righteous fashion, we withhold ourselves from them and leave them with the pain of silence – of being shunned.<br />
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Silence as Pride</h3>
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The sin of pride comes to mind. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC), “the root of all sins lies in man’s heart”. (<a href="http://www.vatican.va/archive/ccc_css/archive/catechism/p3s1c1a8.htm#1866">CCC 1873</a>) As we pray the Lord’s Prayer, we recite words that ask God to “forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us”. In calling down the same judgment on ourselves that we hold against others, we should attempt to soften our hearts to the pain of others. Yet in building an artificial distance between ourselves and another, we erect a wall of pain and isolation, one that will cause another to suffer. Again, looking to our own experience we begin to realize that silence does cause pain. The pain of silence becomes apparent when we are the ones who are shunned, unable to plead our case, ask forgiveness, or perhaps even understand the perceived transgression.</div>
<div>
<br />
<h3>
Spreading the Pain</h3>
<br />
Calculated silence takes on a deeper, more hurtful dimension when others are pulled into participation. Emotional blackmail can cause group silence, thus increasing the pain of the one who is cut off. Again our Faith tells us not to err by leading others, or ourselves, into sin.</div>
<div>
<br />
<h3>
Refusing to Talk</h3>
<br />
Sometimes the harshest punishment for some deduced transgression is to say “I don’t want to talk about it”. The injustice of denying communication leaves injuries on both parties that may not even be justified. Allowing an explanation may find the faulty words were much more benign than they were perceived.<br />
<br />
Perhaps, though, the words did intentionally inflict pain. After some thought, there was repentance and a desire for forgiveness. However, the barriers built by silence became impenetrable. In situations such as this the injury sustained by both parties, inflicted on their very souls, is harmful. As a recent radio host on Catholic radio explained, repressed emotion – especially anger – can have a harmful effect on both the mental and physical well-being of a person.</div>
<div>
<br />
<h3>
The Spiritual Cost</h3>
<br />
There is also a spiritual cost. Bullying silence can become sinful. If we are admonished to <a href="http://biblehub.com/matthew/18-21.htm">forgive “not just seven times, but seventy-seven times”</a>, then are we not also bound to break the silence and allow another to speak his peace? Since the Lord confused man’s speech due to the Tower of Babel, mankind has struggled with inadequate communication. The least we can do for justice is to give a fair hearing to those who stand accused.</div>
<div>
<br />
<h3>
The Bible on Forgiveness</h3>
<br />
From the Beatitudes to the Lord’s Prayer, we are admonished to be merciful, to forgive, and that our own judgment depends on our judgment of others. Scripture is full of instances encouraging forgiveness but how can there be forgiveness if silence stands in the way?<br />
<br />
“And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” <a href="http://biblehub.com/mark/11-25.htm">Mark 11:25</a><br />
<br />
This Lent presents an inspirational opportunity to put the hurt feelings and accusations behind us. As we focus on fasting, prayer, and alms giving, wouldn’t it be a merciful gift to fast from the bullying sin of silence?</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-33501513227230708552017-01-16T13:51:00.001-06:002017-01-16T13:51:15.479-06:00Soldier or Saint – Leave No One Behind<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RCm45_eZUWs/WH0jXFn3z9I/AAAAAAAAGQM/muMTE8Nj8Wwtf40lw4rw730BjsE8MaCMACLcB/s1600/war.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RCm45_eZUWs/WH0jXFn3z9I/AAAAAAAAGQM/muMTE8Nj8Wwtf40lw4rw730BjsE8MaCMACLcB/s1600/war.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />In his book, <a href="https://romancatholicgear.com/books-and-manuals/church-militant-field-manual.html">Church Militant Field Manual</a>, Father Richard Heilman relates the Soldier’s Creed of the United States Army.<br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">
"I am disciplined, physically and mentally tough, trained and proficient in my warrior tasks and drills."</blockquote>
<br />Military discipline, that which aids these warriors in protecting their country, demands a dogged dedication to developing their strength in the service of others. Without total dedication to the mission of saving and protecting others, the mission of the soldier is destined to fail. That is why the Warrior Ethos practiced by military personnel states:<br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">
I will always place the mission first.<br />I will never accept defeat.<br />I will never quit.<br />I will never leave a fallen comrade.</blockquote>
<h3>
Soldier or Saint</h3>
<br />In winning the battle against the Evil One, soldiers for Christ must employ a similar strategy. Whether soldier or saint, the necessary component is to go “all in”. This type of dedication and the necessary skill to pull it through are no accident. It is the result of intensive training. A soldier must pledge to advance his mission through self-restraint, commitment, and pride. Our pledge as soldiers in the Church Militant demands the same<br /><br />As Catholics and members of the Church Militant, we are soldiers for Christ and our mission is clear – the advancement of His Word and the winning of souls. We are called to be our brother’s keeper in the clear sense of being members of the Body of Christ. Sinner or saint, rich or poor, strong or weak – we are all beloved children of God the Father. Our purpose, here on earth, is to bring souls – our own and those of others – to the Eternal Home with Jesus Himself. Being a child of God leaves no room for egocentric self-interest. The Word is there to be shared.<div>
<br /><h3>
Mission One</h3>
<br />Placing the mission first sets the tone for the importance of the goal – saving others. When we seek to participate in the <a href="http://ewtn.com/new_evangelization/">New Evangelization</a> to which Pope John Paul II called us, our focus must not be abandoned. Winning souls for Christ is the pinnacle to which we must be determined to ascend. This requires a dedication that may not come naturally for most of us. Therefore we should pray for strength and success. We must soldier on.<br /><br />“Whatever you ask in My name, that will I do, so that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” <a href="http://biblehub.com/john/14-13.htm">John 14:13</a></div>
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<br /><h3>
Refuse Defeat</h3>
<br />Yet bringing souls – even our own – to Jesus is no task for the weak. This mission requires a steadfastness and determination not come by naturally. In training for our mission our weapons come from the supernatural: grace, divine inspiration, and the Word of God. Often times we seek to share what we, ourselves, have learned but lack the perseverance to allow others to fully embrace the importance of the mission in their own time. The four <a href="http://www.vatican.va/archive/ccc_css/archive/catechism/p3s1c1a7.htm">Cardinal Virtues</a> of prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance play a key part in defying defeat and accompanying others gently into the Light.<br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">
“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” <a href="http://biblehub.com/1_corinthians/15-57.htm">1 Corinthians 15:57 </a></blockquote>
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<div>
<br /><h3>
Never Quit</h3>
<br />Discouragement can become our enemy as the Evil One places a lack of resolve onto our weary souls. In order to dig deep into our supernatural reserves we must avail ourselves to the weapons of the Church Militant. Holy Mass and the Eucharist, the Rosary and other devotions, and the examples of those warrior saints who have gone before us will help us in sustaining the fight. As in the Psalm of David we pray, “Answer me quickly, O LORD, my spirit fails; Do not hide Your face from me, Or I will become like those who go down to the pit.</div>
<div>
<br /><h3>
Leave No One Behind</h3>
<br />Sustained by the Word of God, fueled by His promise, and spurred by our Spirit-inspired commitment we are able to reject defeat. Imagine what would happen if all members of the Church Militant rose up, with a common purpose, and refused to leave behind any soul within their reach. What is keeping us from joining forces and completing this holy mission?<br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">
“We must learn the special operations (special ops) techniques and procedures for search and rescue missions of fallen comrades (those who have become weak in their faith). Although rarely wielded by the Catholics today, this supernatural strength and these techniques are truly authentic gifts of the Church that are field-tested and battle-hardened. We must commit ourselves to their restoration if we ever hope to stem the tide of evil and rescue our lost loved ones who may be destined for eternal damnation.” (Excerpt from <a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001SlwwZpTQH6aA66s5vJxeu1pZvYL1u3vMay9ctCmp9SihZi0uKYIbDy83Nl0A98XVAtdPdT3pr58Ty5f-gvcyNKbZmhBTyzeVN-O7Ov3_4cghxoBpQ7YAyfhRqBZTgnu59IRzqvu85wjvnGzcRDAgPuRpLeRQ4itdEfFYCOgQc_H0-7A4mvdp92n7BTTb86ByAnHUabbTXz_VtXrladFpxq_wvLUr3wONa0fN1LmmknWInW322GOizPU7p_tK30KV&c=fG_ztG_fDqJO_IVwCZ1Kby4cSTb_tM2rbhw-lw6JhSzJYOvvossYsQ==&ch=816bwR92fl7zTR_QX2Nps5CKfUjBSx03wJiOUn3FNUKYCuQcILL8VQ==">Church Militant Field Manual)</a>.</blockquote>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-65740197974241741292017-01-02T15:53:00.004-06:002017-01-02T15:53:25.192-06:00The Gift of Unanswered Prayer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br /><br />We all have things that regularly appear in our prayer petitions. Some are wants, some needs, and some are desires. As the saying goes, “God has three ways to answer our prayers – yes, no, and not now.” Like any good parent, God the Father indulges us but gives preferential treatment to our needs. Sometimes our needs do not correspond with our wants or desires. Then there are times when we need to be patient and wait – the timeline belongs to God<div>
<br /><h3>
Wants, Needs, and Desires</h3>
<br />Wants are the distractions of our souls. We can never get enough of them. Be they money, fame, delicacies, possessions, or admiration, their attainment fails to satisfy. We always want more. Often the want of more is our downfall. Think of gluttony, pride, envy, and the other <a href="http://www.ewtn.com/v/experts/showmessage.asp?number=362724">Deadly Sins</a>. In their extreme sense, they become a mortal sin, requiring confession.<br /><br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">
"For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace." (Romans 8:6)</blockquote>
<br />Needs are the essentials that people require to live – nourishment, shelter, clothing, medical care for the sick, and love. Without these necessities, our earthly bodies will soon falter and perish. When we pray for our needs, God hears and helps with these fundamentals. <a href="http://biblehub.com/matthew/6-26.htm">Matthew 6:26</a> tells us,<br /><br /><br />“Look at the birds of the heaven, that they sow not, nor reap, nor gather into granaries, and your heavenly Father nourishes them. Are ye not much more excellent than they?”<br /><br />Desire is the long term range of what we want from our lives. Do we have an important goal, like becoming a saint while here on earth? Is it our desire to serve God while we serve the least of these? Perhaps we feel moved to start a ministry of some sort. If our desire is to live a life pleasing to God, we make sure that we know, love, and serve Him in every aspect of our lives. Then, when we open our hearts to His Word, the path will be illuminated for us.</div>
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<br /><h3>
A Disappointing Response to Prayer</h3>
<br />When we receive a response from God, the details might surprise or even disappoint us. If we have the proper disposition, as creature belonging to Creator, we soon begin to realize that a response contrary to our desires may very well be a much better option for our spiritual lives. Surprisingly, it may even be better for our temporal lives as well. All God asks of us is that we keep an open heart and mind. He wants to help us blend His wishes with ours to form us more perfectly for Eternal Life. If we only listen to His call, the prayer answered contrary to our wishes may very well have a wonderful effect - one we never imagined. In any case, making the best of His answers will make for a much more fulfilled life. Father God knows best.<br /><br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">
"We are at Jesus' disposal. If he wants you to be sick in bed, if he wants you to proclaim his work in the street, if he wants you to clean the toilets all day, that's all right, everything is all right. We must say, 'I belong to you. you can do whatever you like.' And this is our strength. This is the joy of the Lord." -Saint Teresa of Calcutta</blockquote>
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<br /><h3>
Disappointment for Our Family</h3>
<br />My own life gives witness to these truths. Unable to have more children, my husband and I decided to adopt and were chosen by a birth mother. One call we had both deeply felt was to have a house full of children. This fervent desire appeared to be coming true for eight months of the pregnancy. Our excitement was tangible and shared by our other, much older children. As the time drew near, we began to see a change of attitude in the mother - nothing blatantly obvious, just a sense that something vital had changed. When our lawyer made the call for which neither of us was prepared, the tears came in waves for days. Why had we not seen this coming? How did this change of mind come after such a long time? We were devastated.<br /><br />Fast forward a few years, just when Luke would have been a toddler, I was given a devastating diagnosis - BRCA1 breast cancer. This was not just some take a pill, have a lump removed type of cancer - the gene our family carries has killed every woman in my family - three generations back - at forty to fifty years old. Our lives were turned upside down. From chemotherapy and one surgery after another - one lasting sixteen hours - my outlook appeared bleak. This was a debilitating time in my life - I was as helpless as I had ever been and completely reliant on others. While it was a humbling experience to have my husband and daughter take care of even my most basic functions, there was a joy and love never before experienced.<br /><br />Had our little Luke come to live with us, I am sure we would have found a way to survive, but knowing he was in a good home helped deal with the empty place in our arms and hearts. Four years later, our daughter was diagnosed with the same cancer. She was twenty-eight years old and twenty weeks pregnant. Again, our lives changed drastically. As I had before her, consultation and surgery took us from Kentucky to Texas. The one-year-old son she already had needed care and days were again filled with nursing a loved one. Times like these find me pondering on the gratitude felt for a loving God the Father, who sees us completely - including our most intimate needs.</div>
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<br /><h3>
Prayer is Dialog</h3>
<br />Prayer is an open-ended discussion. It is not akin to asking Santa for some favorite wish or toy. Prayer is an ongoing conversation in which we pose our requests while God tempers our gifts for our own benefit. It is also a lifelong endeavor, allowing us to get to know what our Creator wants for us and an opportunity to work with Him. As the road we travel, here on earth, winds its way this way and that, our needs, desires, and even wants change. As the Master of the Universe, God knows this and sees ahead, down the path of our lives. Where we see only the darkness of an unlit path, He sees fully in the bright light of His love. What we may need tomorrow or next year or five years from now, God already knows. That is why His responses come from a place of pure love – His every move is designed to help us become the best version of ourselves.</div>
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<br /><h3>
The Gift of Unanswered Prayer</h3>
<br />If we keep our minds and hearts open to the nuances of God’s hope for us, we will begin to see a pattern. Even as we voice our wants, needs, and desires – we are able to temper our reactions and expectations. We receive the gift of Patience. In the gift of Wisdom, we are able to discern that the more we empty ourselves of corporal attractions, the more open we are to what God has in store for us and the more Fortitude we display as we wait for an epiphany as to what this might be. After all, God the Father knows best.<br /><br />Advent offers the opportunity for us to empty ourselves and set up room for Him in our hearts. In what is left of this penitent and anticipatory season, let us weigh the significance of our requests. As we discern for ourselves, it would also be a worthy endeavor to focus on the needs, wants, and desires of others during this giving season. May we have an inspirational Advent, leading us to the magnificence of Christmas joy. This is the Gift our Father in Heaven offers to His children - all we have to do is cooperate.<br /><br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." (Romans 15:13)</blockquote>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-71148591884036997432016-12-27T13:00:00.000-06:002016-12-27T13:00:09.595-06:00Which Christmas Traditions Help You Become the-Best-Version-of-Yourself?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRsYo51dNGrLCbstlCPeuguNqpzUrIVw-XBHuMTW8-tQm-2Hc3PgbcGmg1C0xfww9BrZh8GqjsISm8_4Tp-ZKTvNvpwM8ElCO-3_s3MiR8cd9kgg_Hr1BFnPcbV6TGpOvmb0ob58JqOIpH/s1600/christmas-1103518_960_720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRsYo51dNGrLCbstlCPeuguNqpzUrIVw-XBHuMTW8-tQm-2Hc3PgbcGmg1C0xfww9BrZh8GqjsISm8_4Tp-ZKTvNvpwM8ElCO-3_s3MiR8cd9kgg_Hr1BFnPcbV6TGpOvmb0ob58JqOIpH/s1600/christmas-1103518_960_720.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />I've been following Matthew Kelly's '<a href="http://dynamiccatholic.com/best-advent-ever/advent-2016/how-to-pick-the-best-christmas-traditions/?mkt_tok=eyJpIjoiTVRRMVpXWTJNamcwWW1WbSIsInQiOiJVaktsK1pVNHFocTJGUFpBNHVwM05CVmpsMVQ3OVBqcCs3N2NNaldEeG00WGNFUGVwUDVvd2F1Vk40VEl2TE5iU0lPSW93UkkxOUU0VHNSSFpTREpiMkQyYVBZU0JqcWR2YU5JdDNxakRNYTFpYlpxNzVUR2p0K1wvQzFnVURkTHkifQ%3D%3D">Best Advent Ever</a>' to discover how to best lead up to experiencing genuine Christmas Joy with my family. During these weeks we have been instructed on how to discover the best version of ourselves - which aspects of our lives to improve, which to reconsider or discard. Today's lesson offers the following:<br /><br />Our essential purpose is to grow, change, develop, and become the-best-version-of-ourselves. Do your Christmas traditions help you do that? Will they help you prepare for Jesus’ coming? Follow Dominick’s 3-step process to decide which Christmas traditions to keep and which ones to consider eliminating.<div>
<br />Take an inventory of all the habits and traditions that make up your typical Christmas.<br />Look at each one and determine which ones will help you become the-best-version-of-yourself this Christmas, which ones don’t make a difference, and which ones are just distractions.<br />Eliminate the things that are just distractions, even if they are fun or old traditions.<br /><br />This left me pondering about which Christmas traditions are dead weight in my life. We all know that our Christmas preparations can sometimes become overwhelming. As our families grow and change, we may even add more in the way of traditions and activities. But is that what it really takes for the most joyous Christmas ever?<br /><br />Let me share a few things that have made my Christmas more joyous throughout the years. Some of these changes have been deliberate while others happened due to necessity.</div>
<div>
<br /><ul>
<li>Some years I don't bake. Yes, I know that's a shocker to most of you but as my family grew and expanded, I realized that my cookies were only a part of the crowd. I have grown children now, who have spouses. While my baking was a source of pride, the need simply wasn't there for more sweets.</li>
<li>Our menu was also altered for more enjoyment and less duty. After our mother died, we felt duty bound to cook everything she had prepared – plus any dishes added as our family grew. The leftovers would last a week! Now we have honed our menu to include favorites while eliminating overkill. This is better for everyone – less expense, less calories, and less effort. Our meals would still match most Christmas feasts but we have done away with unneeded extravagance.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>We eliminated adult gifting for our extended family Christmas Eve gathering. As the family grew there were many, many children - siblings, cousins, friends. Having even just a name drawing became more chore than joy for the adults. We concluded that we would switch to a "Funny Santa" game with a reasonable price limit. The caveat being that we had to bring a gift we wouldn't mind taking back home with us - no pranks.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The children each give and receive one gift – the drawing is held on Thanksgiving. To make the children's gift exchange more meaningful, we begin with the youngest and each child is handed their gift by the giver. One gift at a time is presented and there is a 'no rushing' rule. In this way, each child is allowed the joy of both giving and receiving - two 'gifts' in one.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>As more children came along even "Funny Santa" became a stretch, so off it went, never to be practiced again. Watching the child gift exchange is more than enough to satisfy the adults.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Sometimes we don't go on an official Christmas light excursion. One of the traditions we used to practice was to rent a limousine each year for light viewing. We would pack snacks, cocoa, and provide the driver with our choice of Christmas CDs. These days we may combine a late afternoon grocery run with driving through the local light attraction at a public park and spotting lights on our way home.</li>
</ul>
<br />Allowing ourselves to let go of things that we cling to out of habit or tradition frees us for keeping and developing more enriching practices. Here are some example of faith building traditions that do we intend to keep:</div>
<div>
<br /><ul>
<li>Advent Wreath – whether it is a traditional, fresh pine wreath, one made with children’s <a href="http://designsbybirgit.blogspot.com/2011/11/adventuresome-family-fun.html">hand prints</a>, or an artistically fashioned faux wreath, this is a must. We light our candles daily and read a bit of scripture or other text providing a build up to the Nativity.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://designsbybirgit.blogspot.com/2013/12/advent-waiting-tree-when-advent.html">Waiting Tree</a> – this was a tradition I introduced when the first of our nine grandchildren were very young. It’s a small, tabletop tree that holds tiny books, hanging from golden threads. Each book contains a portion of the Christmas story - one is read and hung per day.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://designsbybirgit.blogspot.com/2012/12/advent-time-of-waiting-craft.html">Petition Activity</a> – another tradition was started to make Advent more meaningful for little children. One child takes a turn, day by day, to choose a colored clothes pin with a prayer petition on it. This reminds us of those we love or those who are in need.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Christmas caroling – even if we are unable to sing with a large choir (our parish is quite small), we choose a day for the cousins to get together to sing. We visit the elderly and widowed up and down our rural road to give a bit of cheer to those who might otherwise miss out.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Advent/Christmas books and movies – each year we purchase another Advent/Christmas themed book or DVD for our collection. While anticipating Christmas, what better way to spend evenings than to share a spiritually themed story or two?</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Confession –whether it’s a local penance service or just a regularly scheduled time, we make sure that we are up to date on our confession. Even with the aim of going once per month, we sometimes fail. During Advent we make sure that we have prepared a proper home for Jesus, when He comes.</li>
</ul>
<br />As we live amongst the hustle and bustle of the world around us, we sometimes struggle to ‘keep up with the Joneses’. It is only when we set out to prioritize our activities – and even our thoughts – that we are able to become the best version of ourselves. When we find a new way to accomplish this and practice it, our efforts contribute to peace in the family and in the world. As we await Our Lord’s coming, as a little Child, may we find the proper priorities and through them shine His Light for the world.<br /><br />What are some of your family’s Advent and Christmas traditions? Are you willing to reconsider some of your priorities? Or is your tradition-driven activity already finely honed? Chime in and let us know!<br /><br />Happy Advent!</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-75129540323768366222016-12-15T12:08:00.001-06:002016-12-15T12:18:38.814-06:00We Are the Reason for the Season<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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As children, many of us enjoyed carefully studying the Highlights pages to find the hidden objects. I remember diligently seeking for each one until all had been found. Our adult lives are like that as well, although our diligence may not mirror that of our childhood.<br />
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<h3>
Seeking the Hidden Objects in Life</h3>
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The possibilities of finding the hidden are endless. Do we see the poor, hoping for a hand up? Or the lonely, hoping for a smile? How about the misunderstood? Hidden needs and opportunities are only as limited as our ability to see and hear – and feel.<br />
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Advent is a time of waiting and preparation. Jesus is coming in the form of a child born of poverty and displacement. He comes to set in motion our very Salvation. As we hustle and bustle around in preparation of gifting, feasting, and fulfillment are we aware of the hidden objects?<br />
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As humans, created in the image and likeness of God, have we found our hidden saint? Are we seeking to emulate Him Whose creation we are? Or are we more concerned with our search for that illusive gift or that earthly happiness we all seem to crave?<br />
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<h3>
Seeking for the Reason for the Season</h3>
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During his homily this past Sunday, our pastor made a surprising statement. He said, “Jesus is not the Reason for the Season – we are.” Jesus’ coming had not so much to do with Him as it did with us and our seeking of the Kingdom. We are on this earth for the sole purpose of seeking the Eternal Promise – the real gift given to us on Christmas, when the Son of Man was born of a virgin. That he later died on the Cross for us and our sins, cemented the deal. Our Eternal life with God rests solely on our persistence in seeking it with our thoughts and actions.</div>
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<h3>
Preparation is Key</h3>
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Preparation is as important as the destination; without it, we may never find our goal. “We walk over the anniversary of our death each and every year. Let that sink in for a moment. As our pastor shared this tidbit, I must admit that I was taken aback. What a profound statement to make – and yet, so true. As Jesus reminded us in the Gospel of <a href="http://biblehub.com/matthew/24-36.htm">Matthew</a>, “But of that day and hour no one knoweth, not the angels of heaven, but the Father alone.” That statement holds true for both the hour of our death and for the end of time when the Jesus we are seeking comes again.<br />
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Are we ready? As we bake, cook, address Christmas cards, and deck the halls, we should keep in mind our eternal preparedness as well. That poor family needs a few groceries. The man who greets us from a wheelchair at the department store could use a bright, sincere smile. The widow a few pews over would love to be remembered by a kind word or thoughtful note. Has our pastor been shown any appreciation lately? We are his family and he selflessly serves us as a representative of Christ Jesus. The possibilities are endless. Our mission as spouse, parent, cousin, and neighbor revolves around sharing the Good News as well. For what we learn, we must share in order to grow the Body of Christ.</div>
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<h3>
Seeking Until We Find</h3>
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In an ever enduring cycle, Christmas comes and goes every year. What we need to do is find a way to reawaken the wonder that we felt as children. Channeling childlike innocence and reliance on God will help us achieve that goal. If we empty ourselves of selfishness, greed, and distraction we will truly find exactly what and Who it is that we are seeking. In living consciously living Advent in this spirit, we will find the Christmas of our dreams.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“All Christians in any state or walk of life are called to the fullness of Christian life and to the perfection of charity.” All are called to holiness: “Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” (CCC 2013)</blockquote>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-78544980438060042412016-12-02T13:20:00.001-06:002016-12-05T10:13:59.815-06:00The Fr. Pavone Controversy - guest post<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4XOm_xnrXmCWHxqKoVs-2pNLuQjgASU2pi4XkMqfwSe35tckdxzZMYWmKf0V8Jb6NWQy8Ny-4Sh9mUFjIWRrtVZrg8AehA-5hOaclXg4hgiTyt4iS1vpXAnU6fVpbKF_CDdY8qlkYfON0/s1600/baby-784607_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4XOm_xnrXmCWHxqKoVs-2pNLuQjgASU2pi4XkMqfwSe35tckdxzZMYWmKf0V8Jb6NWQy8Ny-4Sh9mUFjIWRrtVZrg8AehA-5hOaclXg4hgiTyt4iS1vpXAnU6fVpbKF_CDdY8qlkYfON0/s1600/baby-784607_1920.jpg" /></a></div>
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There has been a lot of controversy surrounding Fr. Frank Pavone’s video on the 7th day of the Election Novena. This controversy exists on at least three levels: 1) the use of the unborn child’s body, 2) the use of the altar and 3) a priest openly supporting a political party. Honestly, I am wondering why this is such a big deal.<br />
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<h3>
Dignity of the Dead and An Aborted Baby</h3>
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I don’t see exploitation here. The child was already dead and was being held up as proof of the evils of abortion. Why is using an aborted baby to give witness to the atrocities of abortion undignified? This poor discarded child is dead and being prayed over and held as an example of the evils of abortion. The sight of the dead baby on the altar was difficult to see but the child was in the fetal position, a perfectly dignified position.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Many are citing the <a href="http://www.vatican.va/archive/ccc_css/archive/catechism/p3s2c2a5.htm">Catechism of the Catholic Church:</a><br /><br />The bodies of the dead must be treated with respect and charity, in faith and hope of the Resurrection. The burial of the dead is a corporal work of mercy; it honors the children of God, who are temples of the Holy Spirit.</blockquote>
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However, in this case, I don’t see where Fr. Pavone treated the child’s body with disrespect or against charity. Yes, the body of a third-trimester child is naked on the altar. Yes, this child has been chemically burned in the ultimate act of disrespect of abortion. Could Fr. Pavone have clothed the child? Of course, but is it necessary? No. This child is a ‘poster-child’ of what abortion really is. It really results in these tiny humans being burned and dispelled from their supposedly ‘safe haven’ of the womb. Yes, it is shocking. Yes, it is horrible.<br />
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<h3>
Sacredness of the Altar</h3>
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As Catholics, we believe our altars are sacred. Many hold ancient relics from the bodies of saints. The altar is typically used for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass or Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. Fr. Pavone placed this aborted child on the altar and began speaking of how that tiny human was a witness to the atrocities of abortion. I guess I just don’t understand what the big controversy is about; our Pope has even had a beach ball on the altar. Yet, here is a priest who has dedicated his life to defending the unborn making a profound symbolic statement by placing an unborn child who has been sacrificed on the same altar used for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.</div>
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<h3>
Separation of Church and State</h3>
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I think what really has people up in arms is that Fr Pavone was brave enough to call out the <a href="https://www.demconvention.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Democratic-Party-Platform-7.21.16-no-lines.pdf">Democratic Party</a> and candidate based on the issue of abortion. There are arguments based on the fallacy that the Democratic Party wants to make abortion “rare” and thus more pro-life than <a href="https://gop.com/platform/we-the-people/">Republicans</a>. It is the State who is infringing upon the Church. Christian business owners are forced to close down or bow to the LGBT movement. The <a href="http://www.breitbart.com/big-government/2015/04/24/church-of-the-state-hillary-wants-to-re-write-religion-to-make-it-more-abortion-friendly/">Democratic Party Candidate</a> herself said the Catholic Church would have to change its moral compass in order to continue in the United States of America. Christians are labeled backward and ignorant, simply for standing up for their Faith. How could a priest not endorse the Party or Candidate standing in defense of religious liberty and life?<br />
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Fr. Pavone wasn’t using the dead child for monetary gain nor was he acting as a paid spokesperson for the Republican Party. Fr. Pavone was making the public aware of the evil of abortion. He was speaking the truth about the Republican and Democratic parties and using the Truth from God as well as the truth from these Party Platforms to inform voters.<br />
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Guest Contributor: Erika Vandiver<br />
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<img src="https://i1.wp.com/www.catholicstand.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/unnamed-4-e1479687472673.jpg?resize=160%2C213" />Erika is a former Forensic Biologist for the State Police with a BS in Molecular Biology. In her almost 10 years as a Forensic Biologist, she developed a respect for law enforcement and assisted in many criminal cases. She is a self-professed biology and Catholic nerd–reading anything and everything in an effort to keep abreast of new revelations. This came in handy when she was diagnosed with Breast Cancer while 20 weeks pregnant. She chose to ignore the doctors’ options of abortion or delaying treatment and instead received chemotherapy while pregnant. She and her little chemo baby girl are alive and well, giving witness to their incredible story. She credits the world-wide Catholic community and the support of her family–especially her husband of 10 years–for the blessing of her daughter’s and own survival. Her miracle baby girl has an older brother as well as four saint-babies in Heaven.<br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-80128740446158483872016-11-23T14:00:00.000-06:002016-11-23T14:00:01.040-06:00Pro-Abortionists Donating to Planned Parenthood in the Name of Pence<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-TPlP1aYZAkVs21We_kO3Oo2bf_b3RWkltIDKw_AlY3sStEZuwPjs2BqxKPw5Qp86b9IrHvqXGDU0btzXOLs1uorrS4yesXfGGeYppQW59Hw4qYKXBGf2_htqWaIFxaW6uUiTkRXisDL/s1600/money.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgN-TPlP1aYZAkVs21We_kO3Oo2bf_b3RWkltIDKw_AlY3sStEZuwPjs2BqxKPw5Qp86b9IrHvqXGDU0btzXOLs1uorrS4yesXfGGeYppQW59Hw4qYKXBGf2_htqWaIFxaW6uUiTkRXisDL/s1600/money.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />The contentious nature of the 2016 political season exposed a division so wide as to have literally split our nation in two. Even the Catholic population has displayed an appalling chasm of difference. That so many Catholics have increasingly found it acceptable to fervently support champions of abortion is heart-rending. The hearty support of candidate Clinton by abortion giant, Planned Parenthood, made her position on abortion well known. While it is understandable for the people who make up the Body of Christ to disagree about how to address certain issues - be they immigration, just war, or care of the poor – a divide encompassing the most fundamental right, life, is incomprehensible. After all, abortion is intrinsically evil and never an acceptable action.<br /><br />The hard-fought election has passed, a president-elect has been chosen, and yet we struggle with appallingly diverse feelings and opinions. Never in my lifetime have I seen political division escalate to such a frenzy after the votes have been counted and an election has been decided. Yet those who voted for Hillary Clinton, a staunch fan of abortion up until the minute of birth and beyond, refuse to let go of their vitriol. Riots are devastating cities and lives across our nation. Calls of “not my president” are heard in all corners of America.<div>
<br /><h3>
Worship at the Table of Planned Parenthood</h3>
<br />As horrifying as this glaring lack of unity is, what troubles most of those of a conservative bent is the activities of Planned Parenthood – the abortion giant that is not only responsible for the majority of abortions but also the <a href="http://www.catholicstand.com/planned-parenthood-videos-haunted-still/">sale of unborn baby parts</a>.<br /><br />A dear friend of mine is mourning the lack of civility, even humanity, this morning as some of her close friends gleefully publish stories that <a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fpeople.com%2Fbodies%2Fplanned-parenthood-mike-pence-20000-donations%2F%3Fxid%3Dsocialflow_facebook_peoplemag&h=HAQH1vMOs&s=1">Planned Parenthood Confirms It Has Received 20,000 Donations in Mike Pence’s Name Since the Election</a>. In response to these donations, Pence will receive a disingenuous thank you certificate for each one. As a US Senator, Pence initiated a bill to defund Planned Parenthood in 2007 and continues that goal to this day. His persistence and pro-life successes have raised the hackles of pro-abortion advocates over the years, which explains this effort to embarrass him.<br /><br />The age old question, "why?", garners no acceptable answer. My friend ponders further, “Do they NOT get what Planned Parenthood is?” In the past, heart to heart conversations with these individuals about abortion and Planned Parenthood seemed to resonate with her friends. Yet they are now willfully blind to the harsh reality that is abortion. It can be understandable that some women do find themselves in dire straits, dire enough to consider choosing death for their unborn child. Nevertheless, it is simply unconscionable to consider abortion as being something to celebrate. A donation in the name of Vice President-elect, Mike Pence, appears to be a soulless tactic that at the same time encourages the intrinsic evil of abortion and runs counter to his <a href="http://www.catholicstand.com/pence-pro-life-record-change-perceptions-trump/">pro-life public life</a>.</div>
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Respect for Life Largely Decided the Election for Many</h3>
<br />One of the main reasons many voted for Donald Trump had to do with his promise to defund PP and to appoint justices who held a constitutionalist position. Newly elected US House Speaker, Paul Ryan, has recently reiterated the intent of this governing body <a href="https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/ryan-congress-will-act-to-defund-planned-parenthood-for-one-year-with-bill">to defund Planned Parenthood</a> - an effort that fell to an Obama veto. This may well spur the death of the contrived ‘right’ to abortion in the future. The despondency felt about our tax dollars funding this killer of our progeny is palatable. Any hope of cutting our ties, albeit unwilling ties, resonates as a source of progress to those who are weary of the Culture of Death.<br /><br />So why are those dissatisfied with the election outcome resorting to funding abortion? Why are people who on the surface appear to be godly, becoming cheer leaders for death?<br /><br />Satan wants to shake us to our very core. His use of our close friends is but one tactic he employs to shake our foundation to its core. These individuals are doing the work of the evil one. In their unrequited distress at having experienced an unexpected political loss, their minds are distraught and their consciences distorted. In the words of Jesus, "They know not what they do"<br /><br />Our only recourse is to remain strong in Truth, charitable in demeanor, and to turn to Our Lord Jesus Christ in sincere and fervent prayer. Our work is not finished. As we have in the past, we must boldly witness to the evil that is abortion. Our friends and neighbors need to be lovingly educated about God as the author of Life. We must stand by them all in prayer and have faith that our witness, with grace from the Holy Spirit, will pierce their hearts and souls.</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-66174358274880007212016-11-04T16:30:00.000-05:002016-11-04T16:30:10.889-05:00Cancer While Pregnant, Don't Kill My Baby to Save Me<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-35SJ0dSscHc/WBzt6xYDl-I/AAAAAAAAGOM/OEIRTeHRYmYgBk15KZkhsEOGU6TGTaCyACLcB/s1600/ultrasound.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-35SJ0dSscHc/WBzt6xYDl-I/AAAAAAAAGOM/OEIRTeHRYmYgBk15KZkhsEOGU6TGTaCyACLcB/s1600/ultrasound.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our daughter had regular ultrasounds to check the progress of her pregnancy, while undergoing chemotherapy.</td></tr>
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When a pregnant woman receives a cancer diagnosis, there is much to consider. Yet a little known fact is that cancer does not necessarily mean chosing between the life of the baby or mother. Contrary to popular thought both can safely live. This aspect of oncological medicine is actually not news at all. Decades of successful, safe treatment of mothers with a cancer diagnosis has been occuring for decades – at no danger to any of their unborn children.</div>
<br />As we close October as Breast Cancer Awareness month, we should focus on a perpetuated lie which becomes deadly for either mother or child. Cancer organizations, as well as ill-informed physicians, too frequently convince women that an abortion is necessary – to save the life of the mother, should she be diagnosed during pregnancy. According to their recommendation, she otherwise risks her own life in an unnecessary bid to save her baby – leaving a child without a mother.<div>
<br /><h3>
Why Women Are Left Uninformed?</h3>
<br />Why is this scenario so common? Why do mothers feel driven to decide between their own lives and the lives of their unborn children? One reason is obvious. Abortion is a lucrative business. If women can be pushed into subscribing to unsubstantiated fear, there is money to be made – millions of dollars, annually for abortion giant Planned Parenthood.<br /><br />The reason doctors fail to inform their patients is a bit more cryptic. Perhaps it has to do with keeping patients in their hometown medical facilities. Personal experience has taught us that doctors often prefer local treatment to referral to out-of-town specialists. An obvious conclusion could then be discerned as a desire to keep ‘business’ at home.</div>
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<br /><h3>
The Truth of Cancer Treatment during Pregnancy</h3>
<br />Cancer treatment facilities such as MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, TX have an astounding success rate of healthy births to cancer stricken mothers. Somehow the news just isn’t getting out into the population at large. Although there are numerous medical journals, success stories, and peer contacts, too many doctors still seem to be in the dark. Whether or not this is a matter of willful ignorance or lack of training, remains an unknown.</div>
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Breast Cancer While Pregnant Gets Personal</h3>
<br />At twenty weeks pregnant, our daughter was <a href="http://www.catholicstand.com/evangelizing-life-chemo-pregnant/">diagnosed</a> with BRCA1 breast cancer – a particularly destructive form present in our family genetics. With dire past maternal outcomes – death within weeks or up to five years –aggressive treatment was in order to save her life. There was no time to lose. Aborting her unborn daughter was an inconceivable option.<br /><br />Unfortunately, our daughter was given limited options. In consultation with local doctors, it was implied that she had two choices. The first was to terminate (read kill her child through abortion) and then aggressively treat her BRCA1 cancer. The second implication was that she could wait out her pregnancy, at great physical harm to her own health. As a molecular biologist with a gift for research, however, neither answer was satisfactory. Since she was able to access and read medical journals, our daughter did her own research. As a result, she found her answer in Houston, TX.</div>
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<br /><h3>
Making an Educated Decision</h3>
<br />Armed with the knowledge of a third, much more palatable choice, a trip to Houston resulted in a chemotherapy regimen, to begin immediately. Two weeks before birth, further treatment was postponed to ready her body for childbirth. Her 8+ lb. healthy daughter was born on Thanksgiving Day and scored a perfect 10 on her Apgar test. The miracle of life, confirmed she had made the correct, pro-life decision.</div>
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Sharing the Pro-Life News</h3>
<br />Part of our gratitude for finding such a positive outcome to a frightening scenario finds us proclaiming the good news to everyone we meet. Mothers, nurses, and even doctors are often amazed that they have never heard about this decades old treatment option. The goal of sharing this life-affirming option is a catalyst for an annual sharing of the facts. Please consider passing the word along – a life may be hanging in the balance, even as you read these words.</div>
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<br />Amid all of the superficiality of pink month - pink football teams, toilet paper, blenders, and every other imaginable product of commerce - lies an undeniable fact. The PINK lulls the masses into misguided, yet enthusiastic support for death. Yes, death. What they don't tell you, these opportunistic marketers, is that it's all about the money - even if it's blood money. As an eleven year survivor, I have earned the right to make these distinctions and comments.</div>
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Cancer Awareness Run Amok</h3>
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<br />The PINK doesn't help an actual cancer victim nearly as often as you'd think - just ask me or my daughter, who was <a href="http://www.catholicsistas.com/2012/10/29/bald-pregnant-and-living-2/">diagnosed at 28 while she was 20 weeks pregnant</a>.</div>
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<br />Breast cancer is certainly not the only cancer affecting a huge population. There are others just as devastating, warranting 'awareness', moral treatments, and a cure. While it's not a competition, why discount childhood cancer, for example, because it hasn't been as artfully marketed?<br />The answer is that these other cancers are at a disadvantage because the powers that be can't make sexist sound bites about them. No, 'save the Ta-tas', 'save the Boobies' and playing games about the color of ones' bras is so much more titillating (see what I did there?).</div>
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<br />The 'awareness' organizations have lots of overhead, pay huge salaries, and spend enormous amounts of the funds collected as donations on marketing. They don't even play nice with each other, jockeying around for the big bucks. One year Susan G Komen even tried to co-opt the color pink and sued smaller organizations for using the word 'cure' in their slogans!</div>
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<br />The American Cancer Society and Komen are also supporters of embryonic stem cell research. This research kills tiny human beings - containing the complete package of humanity including an eternal soul - and yet has given us no viable treatments or cures. Unlike ethical adult stem cell research, with many success stories, the attraction for the Frankensteiniam use of embryos comes down to money. </div>
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<br /></div>
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You see, adult stem cells can't be patented - they already belong to you. But embryonic cell lines created in a lab present a high dollar wager and promise government grants galore.<br />An even more unholy alliance comes with bedfellows, Komen and abortion giant Planned Parenthood. Although PP does not a single mammogram, they are given large sums of funding from Komen every year. PP where abortion represents 94% of all prenatal 'services'.</div>
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<br /><h3>
Save the Babies, Save the Victims</h3>
<br />I'm not here to denigrate the good intentions of others; my intention is to steer those giving hearts into an ethical direction. There are cancer victims galore out here - all sorts of cancers. Why not consider giving directly to a victim, attending fundraisers, sending prayers and cards of encouragement, cooking meals, helping with children, or cleaning houses of those affected? The opportunities are as countless as the victims of this horrific disease. Further, there are moral organizations worthy of your funds and support: The <a href="http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fpolycarp.org%2F&h=OAQByb-j0AQDLy__ip5yCkI5uAF3c67_3qcpo6VWuBuV9fA">Polycarp Research Institute (TPRI)</a>, the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bcpinstitute.org%2Fhome.htm&h=cAQCyV6yOAQAoqLhGiShMYVGmC31aFNxUo5Vyidju_CLDhw">Breast Cancer Prevention Institute</a>, and the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nationalbreastcancer.org%2F&h=zAQB2sGNGAQB3zryzsXBRUN4EukGWcL4z46WCl6L9NhyKBw">National Breast Cancer Foundation®</a> offer such opportunities.<br /><br />All in all, people are kind and generous. They innocently fall into the commercial trapping of the PINK crowd. My aim is to steer them and their good will into a direction worthy of their charity. God bless them for their kindness! My daughter and I have been lifted up by many.</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-9854770534431514262016-10-28T12:30:00.002-05:002016-10-28T12:30:23.319-05:00The One Essential Thing: Generosity<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjIyPQKw-zM0_RVlFY98DYqrUSY_lS-kWKCssE9IAmz66RNc-cbXSPlyVHr-1JE4RiniUbEtRrqIhOV1lJLg_bSbjKenszGKYbdzpwSUV8gCggXZs0gy1dug52s74gBdYsI7mAcgoYFh0R/s1600/bible-1031288_1920.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjIyPQKw-zM0_RVlFY98DYqrUSY_lS-kWKCssE9IAmz66RNc-cbXSPlyVHr-1JE4RiniUbEtRrqIhOV1lJLg_bSbjKenszGKYbdzpwSUV8gCggXZs0gy1dug52s74gBdYsI7mAcgoYFh0R/s1600/bible-1031288_1920.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><br />According to <a href="http://cart.dynamiccatholic.com/Seven-Pillars-of-Catholic-Spirituality-CD-p/1spc-cd.htm">The Seven Pillars of Catholic Spirituality</a>, Mass is the third pillar – after Confession and Contemplation. Yet what exactly do we expect to get out of Mass? Are we preoccupied with the ‘cosmetics’ of the Mass – music, priest, parishioners, or other human trappings – or are we there for the nourishment of our souls?<br /><br />In one segment of his inspirational presentation, Matthew Kelly encourages listeners to become aware of the ‘one thing’ in reference to the Mass. He suggests investing in a small journal to take to Mass each Sunday. In it, we are instructed to write ‘the one thing’ that speaks to us in our topic of inspiration during Mass. According to Kelly, after a year of listing our ‘one thing‘, we would own the “most powerful spiritual reference” – a guide to help us to more fully live out our Catholic faith.<div>
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Generosity</h3>
<br />The one thing still on my mind when I attended Mass this past Sunday was,”What would become my one thing? Would I really be able to hone in on one particular topic and expand my efforts in that direction?”<br /><br />As I listened to the readings, sang the Responsorial Psalm, and moved on to the Gospel I became aware of a theme. Not only was our substitute priest a 20 year veteran of missionary work, but the focus of the scriptures was trending toward generosity – doing for the least of these.</div>
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<br /><h3>
It Isn’t Just About the Poor</h3>
<br />However, our generosity can, and should, extend beyond the poor in Haiti and other Third World countries. Yes, <a href="http://biblehub.com/matthew/26-11.htm">the poor will always be with us</a>, yet we are bound to give in charity to the limits of our generosity. There is more demanded of us. Are we generous with our time and talents? Does our generosity extend to family, friends, and community? How about our parish? What do we share of ourselves with these?<div>
<br /><h3>
Creative Generosity</h3>
<br />Surely, the one thing which comes to mind is giving alms – donating money or perhaps even a trip to Haiti, to minister to the poorest of the poor. But there is more to be done. Generosity can mean engaging people in talking about spirituality – the sharing of the Good News. In this sense, evangelization is generosity because we are sharing our time in the pursuit of sharing the Word of God with others.<br /><br />Generosity can also take the form of watching our tongues. Do we really need to share this or that story about someone? Wouldn’t it be more generous to leave information private, if there is no good reason for sharing? Thoughtful silence can, therefore, exemplify generosity.<br /><br />Looking into the eyes of strangers with a smile, listening to a child spin a winding tale that takes way too long, or a commiserating hug for someone in mental anguish – all of these give witness to generosity.<div>
<br /><h3>
God Still Speaks Today</h3>
<br />God hasn’t left the human race. He wasn’t content to speak only to Adam, Moses, or His Disciples. Kelly reminds us that, “It isn’t that God has stopped speaking, it’s that we’ve stopped listening”. What part do we play in our own formation? “He wants to speak to you in your life” and help you become the best version of yourself, explains Kelly. Every time we open up our hearts to the unitive message of God, we will find more inspiration for generosity. There are no limits to the methods we can employ to do the Will of God.<div>
<br /><h3>
Finding Our One Thing</h3>
<br />Now that the mission has been identified, we are ready to take the challenge. As Kelly suggests, write this line in your journal: “God, show me one way in this Mass I can become a better version of myself this week”. Bring your journal to church, arrive early, and be open to the voice of God. Listen. The music, prayers, quiet of your heart, and readings – all of these components will coagulate into a theme, the one thing. Write it down and let it become a prayer during Mass. The one thing will color your perceptions of what is happening there as Heaven meets earth.<div>
<br /><h3>
What Now?</h3>
<br />Fully armed with the inspiration with which we have been gifted we face the coming week, and the world, focused and invigorated, and energized. Kelly reminds us that, “Our lives change when our habits change”. As we begin the journey of living the one thing we will gain everything we need to make a difference. When we count ourselves as one of many who are working to transform their lives, we can awaken a sleeping giant. This sleeping giant of our combined efforts can change the world. With God at the helm, there is nothing we cannot accomplish.<br /><br /><blockquote class="tr_bq">
He said to them: The things that are impossible with men, are possible with God. <a href="http://biblehub.com/luke/18-27.htm">Luke 18:27</a></blockquote>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-68646202596601209532016-10-15T15:53:00.003-05:002016-10-15T19:07:15.305-05:00Are Political Discussions Creating a Nation of Voyeurs?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CVXKVS5kZ_0/WAKUNJbdS4I/AAAAAAAAGNU/RgC13nFw3GgTY5kFr61xoYOSKa9pLhTBQCLcB/s1600/peeking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CVXKVS5kZ_0/WAKUNJbdS4I/AAAAAAAAGNU/RgC13nFw3GgTY5kFr61xoYOSKa9pLhTBQCLcB/s1600/peeking.jpg" /></a></div>
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Please, for the love of God, stop it already! Why is our already morally flawed society hell bent on continuing to drive our political narrative ever deeper toward unapologetic sleaze?<br />
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At this point, more people are 'aware' of the Trump lewd comment and comeon debacle than are 'aware' of <a href="http://designsbybirgit.blogspot.com/2016/10/breast-cancer-and-pregnancy-another.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e69138;">breast cancer</span></a> - to which the month of October is dedicated.<br />
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<h3>
Is this About Smut or Governing?</h3>
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The narrative is blatantly being dictated to us - even by fellow conservatives. Why are we all spending so much time defending or comparing Trump's sins instead of working on matters relative to the governing of our country? Russia is calling all of her citizens home, terrorists (as well as drug lords, gangs, and rapists) are flooding across our borders unchecked, and our relationships with our allies are at an all time low. <br />
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We have an economy that is in the tank, rampant unemployment, hatred between ethnic groups and law enforcement, leaders who create laws out of thin air, and a bloody war on our unborn. There are so many pressing, national issues to discuss and discern before we cast our votes next month. Yet, here we are.<br />
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I've seen otherwise faithful friends post obscene photos, comparing Michelle O's feined outrage at Trump while calling Beyonce a 'role model' for young girls - including her daughters. These memes have graphic photos to which I would prefer never be exposed. Not to mention that I cannot even allow my grandchildren to look over my shoulder, while perusing Facebook.<br />
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<h3>
Please, for the love of God, stop it!</h3>
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While I am well aware of the repugnant behavior of some men, I <a href="http://designsbybirgit.blogspot.com/2016/10/drawing-relgious-line-on-politics.html" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e69138;">have had more than enough</span></a> of the details. There is no defense and no excuse. No comparision will ever resonate with those who are not like-minded. Levels of guilt need no more comparision and, if you have not picked up on the free flowing hypocracy by now, I doubt that endless, salacious repetition will do the trick.<br />
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We get it. Some men are pigs. Many men are pigs. Some outgrow the propensity. Some do not. Do we even know who does or does not? Is this this best tack to take when chosing a president? Taking part in the disgusting pornographic exchanges going on at this point will fail to change anything - anyone.<br />
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<h3>
Leadership Limtus Test?</h3>
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The last time I checked, the oath of office doesn't include promising to be chaste and pure. If that were the litmus test, I doubt that many of our leaders (teachers, judges, or even parents) would pass muster. This is a political issue that has moral connotations, yes. But there is no excusable reason to create a tellall tabloid expose' of potential presidents. The discernment for a president is also certainly not a vetting for seminary. That all candidates are personally flawed is a given. To one extent or another, is that not true of us all? <br />
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How a president will lead, in relation to our government and the will of the people he represents, is the pressing issue. More appropriate questions come to mind. What are their plans, who are their advisors, their cabinet members? How will they address the constituion, religious freedom, the right to life, or national defense?<br />
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Narrow Vision or Larger Picture?</h3>
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It might also be beneficial to recall that there are three branches of government. The president has to work with the legislative and judicial branches, so his word alone is not Gospel or rule of law. The <a href="https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/2016-republican-party-platform-the-most-pro-life-ever" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e69138;">party platform</span></a> he represents, has a certain degree of effect on our government as well, as does his choice of <a href="http://www.catholicstand.com/pence-pro-life-record-change-perceptions-trump/" target="_blank"><span style="color: #e69138;">Vice-President</span></a>. All of these pieces of the political puzzle comprise one, more complete and larger, picture. The various trees make up the government forest, so to speak. Each of these aspects needs careful consideration. A clearer view of the overall picture will give us an opportunity to derive a more complete answer. <br />
<br />
So I ask you, are we electing a leader who will protect our country from enemies and hopefully institute more protection for the unborn and the constitution - or are we choosing a dorm mother (father) or nanny for our children? The job description should put focus on the relevant questions. <br />
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How many presidents have we had? How many of them were unsavory characters? What was the reaction of the people? How did these issues affect their ability to serve? Do we even know of the skeletons in each of their closets? Have we ever been so hell bent on finding and exposing them? Is that really the premier issue when electing a leader?<br />
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<h3>
Our Country Needs Our Focus</h3>
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What I see here is an unbelievable, consistent diatribe pertaining to unsavory characteristics. The degree of titilation is palitable. Look at how we are talking and what our eyes are seeing and what our ears are hearing and what our minds are thinking. This has to have the devil giggling at our foolishness. Instead of focusing on issues - real political, nation and constitition saving issues - we are distracted to the point of a comatose, spit flecked nutty over the one thing that is least relevant to the election. Yes, character matters, but it is only one facet of a secualr leader. A strong love of country, the constitution, and capable leadership ability - these are the traits that make a president. <br />
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Let us not give in to the willful distraction dished up and served to us. Pray, focus, discern, learn, and vote for the best possible outcome for our country.<br />
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God Bless America!<br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-73551426465827786492016-10-14T18:22:00.004-05:002016-10-15T16:11:02.499-05:00Breast Cancer and Pregnancy: Another Abortion Exception Debunked<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Contrary to popular reporting, Breast Cancer does not necessarlily mean a
death sentence for baby or mother. The truth of the matter is that both can
safely live. If you are not aware of this aspect of oncological medicine, it
might surprise you to know that this scientific fact is not news at all.
Mothers with a cancer diagnosis have been successfully and safely treated for
decades – and at no danger to their unborn children.<o:p></o:p></div>
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As we focus on October as Breast Cancer Awareness month, a perpetuated
lie becomes deadly for either mother or child. Cancer organizations, as well as
ill-informed physicians, too frequently convince women that an abortion is
necessary – to save the life of the mother, should she be diagnosed during
pregnancy. According to their recommendation, she otherwise risks her own life
in an unnecessary bid to save her baby – leaving a child without a mother.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Why Women Are Left Uninformed?<o:p></o:p></h3>
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Why is this scenario so common? Why do mothers feel driven
to decide between their own lives and the lives of their unborn children? One
reason is obvious. Abortion is a lucrative business. If women can be pushed
into subscribing to unsubstantiated fear, there is money to be made – millions of
dollars, annually for abortion giant Planned Parenthood. <o:p></o:p><br />
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The reason doctors fail to inform their patients is a bit
more cryptic. Perhaps it has to do with keeping patients in their hometown
medical facilities. Personal experience has taught us that doctors often prefer
local treatment to referral to out-of-town specialists. An obvious conclusion
could then be discerned as a desire to keep ‘business’ at home.<o:p></o:p></div>
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The Truth of Cancer Treatment during Pregnancy<o:p></o:p></h3>
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Cancer treatment facilities such as MD Anderson Cancer
Center in Houston, TX have an astounding success rate of healthy births to
cancer stricken mothers. Somehow the news just isn’t getting out into the
population at large. Although there are numerous medical journals, success
stories, and peer contacts, too many doctors still seem to be in the dark.
Whether or not this is a matter of willful ignorance or lack of training,
remains an unknown.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Breast Cancer While Pregnant Gets Personal<o:p></o:p></h3>
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At twenty weeks pregnant, our daughter was <a href="http://www.catholicstand.com/evangelizing-life-chemo-pregnant/" target="_blank">diagnosed</a> with
BRCA1 breast cancer – a particularly destructive form present in our family
genetics. With dire past maternal outcomes – death within weeks or up to five
years –aggressive treatment was in order to save her life. There was no time to
lose. Aborting her unborn daughter was an unconceivable option.<o:p></o:p><br />
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Unfortunately, our daughter was given limited options. In
consultation with local doctors, it was implied that she had two choices. The first
was to terminate (read kill her child through abortion) and then aggressively
treat her BRCA1 cancer. The second implication was that she could wait out her
pregnancy, at great physical harm to her own health. As a molecular biologist
with a gift for research, however, neither answer was satisfactory. Since she
was able to access and read medical journals, our daughter did her own
research. As a result, she found her answer in Houston, TX.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Making an Educated Decision<o:p></o:p></h3>
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Armed with the knowledge of a third, much more palatable
choice, a trip to Houston resulted in a chemotherapy regimen, to begin
immediately. Two weeks before birth, further treatment was postponed to ready
her body for childbirth. Her 8+ lb. healthy daughter was born on Thanksgiving
Day and scored a perfect 10 on her Apgar test. The miracle of life, confirmed
she had made the correct, pro-life decision.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sharing the Pro-Life News<o:p></o:p></h3>
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Part of our gratitude for finding such a positive outcome to
a frightening scenario finds us proclaiming the good news to everyone we meet.
Mothers, nurses, and even doctors are often amazed that they have never heard
about this decades old treatment option. The goal of sharing this life-affirming option
is a catalyst for an annual sharing of the facts. Please consider passing the
word along – a life may be hanging in the balance, even as you read these
words.<o:p></o:p><br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-46597189834085968492016-10-12T11:53:00.003-05:002016-10-15T16:13:14.200-05:00Drawing a Relgious Line On Politics<div class="tr_bq">
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I am finished. After praying over it with a heavy heart last night, I have decided that I am too attentive to politics. While I will remain informed, I will tear myself away from the constant soap opera/demonic distractions and focus on the Eternal.<br />
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My decision has been made according to the <a href="https://www.catholics4trump.com/cardinal-ratzingers-2004-letter-forbids-catholics-to-vote-for-hillary/" target="_blank">priorities</a> given to all Catholic Christians - abortion is <i>the</i> guiding factor because it is an intrinsic evil upon which all other rights hinge. Without life, there can be no other rights.<br />
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I listened to an excellent presentation by Matthew Kelly last night before bed. He spoke of the<a href="http://cart.dynamiccatholic.com/Seven-Pillars-of-Catholic-Spirituality-CD-p/1spc-cd.htm" target="_blank"> 7 Pillars of Catholic Spirituality</a>. This is the type of thing to which I will be listening - rather than Rush or Levin. My soul is hurting, my mind is tired, and my spirit wants to escape to the comfort of God.<br />
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It remains to be seen how successful I will be - there is so much at stake and no clear answer - but I am going to try and pray for the strength to succeed.<br />
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My Rosary this morning brought me more clarity. It will be tempted to be drawn back in, God help me resist. I will most likely vote for Trump (really <a href="http://www.catholicstand.com/pence-pro-life-record-change-perceptions-trump/" target="_blank">Pence)</a> this November, because reluctantly, I know this is the right thing for<i> me</i> to do. So I do not need convincing or more information. My well-formed conscience has made a choice and now I need to discipline myself by stepping out of the fray.<br />
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I love you, my friends and pray you will also resist the temptation to make every day about too many worldly things.<br />
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<h3>
Put on the New Self</h3>
<blockquote>
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<a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-1.htm">1</a>Therefore, if you be risen with Christ, seek the things that are above; where Christ is sitting at the right hand of God: <a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-2.htm">2</a>Mind the things that are above, not the things that are upon the earth. <a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-3.htm">3</a>For you are dead; and your life is hid with Christ in God. <a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-4.htm">4</a>When Christ shall appear, who is your life, then you also shall appear with him in glory.</blockquote>
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<a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-5.htm">5</a>Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, lust, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is the service of idols. <a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-6.htm">6</a>For which things the wrath of God cometh upon the children of unbelief, <a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-7.htm">7</a>In which you also walked some time, when you lived in them. <a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-8.htm">8</a>But now put you also all away: anger, indignation, malice, blasphemy, filthy speech out of your mouth. <a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-9.htm">9</a>Lie not one to another: stripping yourselves of the old man with his deeds, <a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-10.htm">10</a>And putting on the new, him who is renewed unto knowledge, according to the image of him that created him. <a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-11.htm">11</a>Where there is neither Gentile nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian nor Scythian, bond nor free. But Christ is all, and in all.</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-12.htm">12</a>Put ye on therefore, as the elect of God, holy, and beloved, the bowels of mercy, benignity, humility, modesty, patience: <a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-13.htm">13</a>Bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if any have a complaint against another: even as the Lord hath forgiven you, so do you also. <a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-14.htm">14</a>But above all these things have charity, which is the bond of perfection: <a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-15.htm">15</a>And let the peace of Christ rejoice in your hearts, wherein also you are called in one body: and be ye thankful. <a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-16.htm">16</a>Let the word of Christ dwell in you abundantly, in all wisdom: teaching and admonishing one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual canticles, singing in grace in your hearts to God. <a href="http://biblehub.com/colossians/3-17.htm">17</a>All whatsoever you do in word or in work, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.</blockquote>
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Collossians 3 </blockquote>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-65444672785523507482016-09-30T13:51:00.002-05:002016-09-30T13:53:06.831-05:007 Misguided Reasons to Wear a Chapel Veil <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yriEpAR1gy8/V-6z_UmcZwI/AAAAAAAAGMk/97PD6J3CdSkUTHgZirkJjGISjmiRg_izQCLcB/s1600/Black%2Bsparkle%2Bbw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yriEpAR1gy8/V-6z_UmcZwI/AAAAAAAAGMk/97PD6J3CdSkUTHgZirkJjGISjmiRg_izQCLcB/s1600/Black%2Bsparkle%2Bbw.jpg" /></a></div>
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<h3>
1. Because I Am More Holy than You</h3>
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Many people these days look at women who choose to practice the devotion of veiling as ‘holier than thou’ – most characteristically in Novus Ordo parishes. Nothing could be further from the truth. In my personal experience, the reasons women veil are <a href="https://churchpop.com/2014/12/08/10-reasons-women-wearing-veils-church/">numerous</a>. Their motivation includes emulating the Blessed Mother because she is the consummate female role model. Another reason is that, often times, sacred things are veiled – the tabernacle, for example. As life-bearers, we women, have a sacred collaboration with our spouses and God. We carry the treasure of little souls within our bodies for nine months before introducing them to this world.<br />
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2. Because It Is a Fashion Statement</h3>
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There are so many ways to embellish our appearance. We wear flattering clothing, jewelry, and perhaps a bit of makeup. Yet a chapel veil is not a fashion accessory. If the temptation to look on the veil in this way, it may be wise to reconsider this pious practice. Conversely, wearing a veil is often a hindrance to fashion. That carefully coiffed head, adorned with a beautiful hairstyle may very well be <a href="http://designsbybirgit.blogspot.com/2013/10/interior-disposition-why-fix-your-hair.html">flat and unflattering </a>by the time the final blessing of Mass is given. Wearing a chapel veil can, however, affirm the recognition of our God-given femininity as complementary to the masculinity of our spouses.<br />
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3. Because I Am Stuck In The Past</h3>
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Some Catholics of good faith believe that the obligation for women to cover their heads continues to be binding to this day. Others know the law surrounding veiling was abrogated and therefore, believe the practice to be passé. A quick study of<a href="http://designsbybirgit.blogspot.com/2013/07/veiling-revisited-is-it-mandatory.html"> Canon Law</a>, however, confirms that, while the devotion is no longer binding, it is acceptable, and even desirable, as a <a href="http://www.catholicstand.com/decision-wear-veil-mass/">voluntary practice</a>.</div>
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<h3>
4. Because It Is a Distraction</h3>
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Wearing a chapel veil is, for me, a tangible way of removing myself from this world and entering into Heaven on Earth. As I clip my veil to my hair, my demeanor changes, and my soul stills. Yes, I am in communion with the others in surrounding pews but my soul is in still deeper communion with God. The distractions of life as usual fade away and my soul is transported to the Cross. There, Mary stands at my side and we ponder together this Son she bore and the Salvation He brought.</div>
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5. Because I Am Vain</h3>
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Realistically my almost sixty years have left their mark. Short-cropped, salt and pepper hair that is left undyed, a body not nearly as svelte as my younger self, and creases etched into laugh lines at mouth and eyes – that is the reality of my present self. Wearing a chapel veil of the finest, imported lace would do nothing to change these realities. If anything, donning a veil when few or no others do is the opposite of vanity. It speaks of humility and a comfort with the God-given self.</div>
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6. Because I Want to Call Attention to Myself</h3>
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How easy it is to seek acceptance – to be one of the crowd. When we blend in we are almost anonymous. That bit of extra weight, the charcoal hair, and unexceptional face can make for a monolithic scene. It is exactly when we step out of our comfort zone, for the sake of the spiritual, that we become different. Although this is never the intent, especially for an introvert, it speaks of a devotion that overcomes. It overcomes the trepidation of being judged and presents a vulnerability not usually sought. It could be called a childlike gift to Father God, one of the ways to show Him love.</div>
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7. Because I Want Praise From Others</h3>
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“She’s such a good Catholic; look at how modestly she dresses and wears a chapel veil!” No, that is not at all what wearing a veil is about. If anything, those of us who practice this optional devotion would rather not be called out as holy women. Speaking for myself and those friends who also veil, we are a sorry lot. Our lives have taken us on many crooked paths and self-inflicted detours. We have not always listened when the Holy Ghost whispered, much less when He hit us in the head while shouting at us, like the sinful children we are, to please pay attention.</div>
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<h3>
Women Who Do Veil</h3>
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Women who veil vary as much as our chapel veils do. We come from all walks of life – cradle Catholics, converts, young, old, Latin Mass devotees, Novus Ordo attendees, married, single, and myriad other characteristics. Even our <a href="http://designsbybirgit.blogspot.ca/2014/05/veiling-and-you-5-things-catholic-boys.html">reasons for covering our heads </a>are numerous. The common ground is our devotion to our beautiful Catholic faith, handed down to us directly from Jesus to his disciples in an unbroken piece of Heaven on Earth.<br />
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We seek forgiveness, sin and confess, resolve and fall – but we pick ourselves back up again, keeping our eyes on the Prize. Whether you join us in the devotion of wearing a chapel veil or not, we are your sisters. Let us truly be in communion. Let us pray for one another.</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-44134580837091991252016-08-05T14:43:00.001-05:002016-08-05T14:47:12.878-05:00What Makes You Happy Tells a Lot About You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happiness, it’s all the rage with the human race. We’ve always been quite infatuated with the idea of happiness – after all, it’s only human right? But what makes you happy? Have you ever really stopped to think about it? And on what level does happiness apply to your wishes for satisfaction? Is it something as simple as a good meal or the carefree giggle of a child? Or does your happiness depend on something deeper? Does it, perhaps, lead to spiritual joy?<br />
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<h3>
Earthly Happiness</h3>
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There’s nothing wrong with wanting to be happy, even in superficial ways. After all, God created us and gave us an amazing world in which to live. Happiness can be the silly giggle of a child when you dance to the Chicken Dance with her – while sitting in your computer chair - with the audience of an intrigued one year old. It can be knowing that your husband is in the kitchen, concocting a scrumptious meal – even though it’s meatless Friday and you’d rather have a steak. Gardening and creating and planning our dream cabin makes me happy – as does looking deep into the endless depth of one of our 9 grandchildren's soulful eyes.<br />
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<h3>
Eternal Happiness</h3>
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There's also a deeper type of happiness - of a more Eternal nature. One form of happiness doesn’t preclude the other. We can find happiness – even spiritual joy – from our faith life. From knowing that you’ve delved into something that is difficult to discern and yet have come to a solid decision. Happiness is walking out of the confessional and knowing Jesus has just listened to and forgiven your sins. My happiness also hinges on the knowledge that someone I love is making good, moral decisions. Praying for those I love (and those I don’t) also brings me happiness – even joy.<br />
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What can you tell about me from my sharing? What makes you happy – earthly or Eternal? Share your happiness and let it grow exponentially as we join our happiness together.<br />
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(stop)<br />
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+++<br />
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Here we are again, joining <a href="http://katemotaung.com/2016/04/21/five-minute-friday-unite/">Kate Motaung</a> for Five Minute Friday #fmf - a fun way to participate in timed free writing with other bloggers.<br />
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Today's #fmf prompt is '<a href="http://katemotaung.com/2016/08/04/five-minute-friday-happy-celebrating-two-years-hosting-fmf-with-a-special-guest-and-a-giveaway/" target="_blank">happy</a>'. Follow the <a href="http://katemotaung.com/2016/08/04/five-minute-friday-happy-celebrating-two-years-hosting-fmf-with-a-special-guest-and-a-giveaway/" target="_blank">link</a> to check out some truly inspirational entries.</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-10216330364155769462016-08-01T12:31:00.001-05:002016-08-05T13:26:16.527-05:00Not Voting For Hillary (or Trump): A Moral Dilemma<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last week I wrote an article for Catholic Stand Entitled <a href="http://www.catholicstand.com/10-reasons-can-not-vote-trump/" target="_blank">10 Reasons I Can Not Vote for Trump (or Hillary)</a>. In the ensuing days I've been called a few names, told I don't know my faith, and have been accused of shilling for Hillary Clinton. It has also been stated, in no uncertain terms, that all of my research of sources from various positions - mainstream media, pro-life sites, Catholic voters guides, and actual video footage - is based on hearsay and devious editing.<br />
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My opinion of Mr. Trump was formed long before he became one of many Republican candidates and rebirthed himself from his lifelong pro-abortion, Democrat views. Yet the accusations (against me) and the defensive measures (for Trump) continue.</div>
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Yes, I weighed the (supposed) consequences. I just don't believe Trump when his newly minted persona says he will appoint pro-life justices (after he just said his pro-choice sister would be an excellent addition to SCOTUS).<br />
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Yes, I know that the various moral choices Catholics have include voting for 'one who will do less harm'. Yet, still, here I am exercising one of those moral choices presented by the Church, reached with much soul searching, prayer, and a fully formed conscience. I don't expect to change the minds of the blindly supportive Trump supporters (just as I doubt they can change mine). What I am attempting to do is to give some solace to those who, like me, get a greasy, queasy feeling when thinking of all that a Trump presidency could very well entail.</div>
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Here, then, are my ten reasons for not voting for candidate Trump (or Hillary). For the details, refer to the <a href="http://www.catholicstand.com/10-reasons-can-not-vote-trump/" target="_blank">Catholic Stand column</a>.</div>
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<ol>
<li>Trump is a Political Chameleon </li>
<li>The Lessor of Two Evils (Or the one who would do less harm) Isn’t a Valid Reason </li>
<li>He’s a Loose Cannon </li>
<li>Having Abortion Exceptions Makes Him Pro-Choice </li>
<li>Trump Is In It for Himself </li>
<li>I Am Only Accountable for My Own Vote </li>
<li>No, Refraining from a Trump Vote is Not a Vote for Hillary </li>
<li>He’s a Democrat in Republican Clothing </li>
<li>One Presidency Cannot Repair the Damage That Took Decades to Create </li>
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The only Savior this world has ever seen – or will ever see – is Jesus Christ. The faulty thinking that seeks to justify a vote for Trump is impossible to realize in real life. The litany of problems faced by our nation – healthcare, terrorism, financial ruin, loss of religious liberty, commercialization of women and sale of unborn baby parts – will take decades of righteous leadership to undo. Donald Trump is not the person to begin the pilgrimage down that path.<br />
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Even if a moral champion was elected, years of Congressional failure would have to be addressed as well. Instead of placing all of our hopes in one candidate, we should address the moral failure of all representatives. Accepting empty speeches and backtracking leaders has been the norm far too long. Every vote should be carefully discerned by moral standards. Hold the feet of our representatives – from dog catcher to president – to the fire of righteous judgment. Isn’t it time to aspire to be led by those who lead us to salvation?<br />
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This would be a good to time ponder, “What would we get if Trump won?” Within the answer lies the source of my trepidation. Based on the facts garnered about candidate Trump there are certain conclusions to be drawn. What we get from a Trump presidency will not be like anything we have ever had before – because Trump is unlike any candidate we have ever had. His positions come from a position of power. Morals and ethics are not really given a seat at his table.<br />
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How terrible would it be to have the strongest <a href="https://www.lifesitenews.com/news/2016-republican-party-platform-the-most-pro-life-ever">pro-life/moral plank</a> ever in the GOP platform and then have a president wh0 adhered to it even less than any previous one?<br />
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<br /><br />Editor Update 8-5-16:<br /><br /><h4>
Alternatives?</h4>
"'You shall not murder' contains no exceptions. If there are exceptions made, there can be no equality. Which means there can be no justice. The premises for the rule of law, and any decent claim to liberty, are completely destroyed. What part of this do American Christian 'pro-lifers' fail to understand? The main obstacle to saving our country is not Planned Parenthood, or Obama, it is "conservatives" who don't seem to understand what it is that must be conserved if we are going to survive as a free, secure, prosperous people. I'm sorry if this message is offensive to some, but it's the truth. And it's a truth everyone needs to hear, and act upon in their politics, before it is too late for America and for our posterity."<br /><br />-- <a href="http://www.tomhoefling.com/home/category/exceptions">Tom Hoefling</a> <br /><br />or<br /><br />"...<a href="http://theconservatarianreview.com/cruz-and-paul-supporters-should-vote-for-constitution-party-nominee-darrell-castle/">Darrell Castle</a>, the Constitution Party nominee. His platform is straightforward: the Constitution must be upheld, ALL human life must be protected, the Federal Reserve must be abolished, and national sovereignty must be defended."</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7728684251386365571.post-17872052821419582572016-07-26T17:14:00.002-05:002016-07-26T18:40:31.969-05:00Are We Fertile Ground?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today's first reading from 1<a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/jeremiah/14:17">JER 14:17-22</a> is appropriate as we digest the day's current events.<br />
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Let my eyes stream with tears<br />
day and night, without rest,<br />
Over the great destruction which overwhelms<br />
the virgin daughter of my people,<br />
over her incurable wound.<br />
If I walk out into the field,<br />
look! those slain by the sword;<br />
If I enter the city,<br />
look! those consumed by hunger.<br />
Even the prophet and the priest<br />
forage in a land they know not.</blockquote>
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Just a passing glimpse at the news of any given day garners a fear, deep in the recesses of our minds. For example, one of the first headlines that met my sleepy eyes this morning stated, <a href="http://www.breitbart.com/london/2016/07/26/knifemen-take-several-hostages-french-normandy-church/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+breitbart+%28Breitbart+News%29" target="_blank">‘Islamic State’ Chanting Attackers ‘Behead’ Priest During Morning Mass In France</a>. What are we to make of a world where such headlines are more and more common? A world where the powerful and immoral forces rule while the faithful are downtrodden or forgotten or worse? </div>
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The answer lies not in our own actions. It does not lie with the promise of a political candidate or the rising up of any human effort. The solution to the '<a href="http://biblehub.com/drb/psalms/91.htm" target="_blank">terror of the night</a>' lies in hearing and heeding the Word of God. It starts with the conversion of one - yourself.</div>
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Hearing the Word of God involves more than just the function of the sense of our ears. It means petitioning, 'come Holy Spirit, come' and then waiting and listening. In the silence, our solution will come. It may not be what we expect or even what we think we want, but it will be the voice of our Creator. He will guide us.</div>
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Pray always and listen carefully. His answer will come in the whisper of a breeze. Will we be ready when the Bridegroom approaches or will we have left our Eternal preparation up until the last minute?</div>
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If we set out purposefully to morally address this life, we will be well on our journey to Eternal Life. That is the only way to find true comfort and solace. Our comfort and joy will come from walking the right path and being the good seeds sown by God - being fertile ground that reflects the goodness of Our Lord.</div>
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How fortunate we are, to have an Almighty and Gracious God! Today's Responsorial Psalm speaks our cry of hope and knowledge of the infinite power of our Savior. He, alone, can rescue us. He, alone, can condemn us.</div>
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<a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/psalms/79:8">PS 79:8, 9, 11 AND 13</a>R. (9) For the glory of your name, O Lord, deliver us.</blockquote>
Our choices, however, are up to us. God has given us Free Will. How we discern His Will amidst the turmoil we face will reveal the strength of our faith and the obedience we practice. We can be the good seed, sown by God, or the bad seed sown by Satan. And as the last line of the Gospel according to Matthew sums up the readings today, " Whoever has ears ought to hear.” <a href="http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/072616.cfm" target="_blank">MT 13</a><br />
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When we hear His message are we listening?<br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for stopping by. Please check out my Facebook page @ https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbyBirgit where you will find pro-life posters to share and some of my other work. Let us pray for one another!</div>Birgit Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05755393803510129974noreply@blogger.com0