Mary the Mother of Jesus, the HUMAN side of her (1)

I cannot claim the honour of this precious piece of writing. Many years ago, when I was a member of the Catholic Women's League in Taradale, Napier, New Zealand, I was asked to read this tribute to Mary, the Mother of Jesus. I have to say, although honoured to do so, after a proef read, I realised I was not going to keep it dry. So many truths, mother love's and pain, that I could in a tiny way identify with Mary. I also realised that there would be many who thought this- the meeting which I addressed was to a large number of women, of mothers, scared in some way in their mother role.

I will print it in parts- spending some moments on the contents which I am sure, will inspire me to reflect and share my thoughts.

This precious writing was originally delivered to the Palmerston North Diocesan Conference of the Catholic Women's League by Patricia Hocqaurd of Wanganui, New Zealand, the author of this writing. This is her ode to Mary.

I, who am a middle aged woman, stand before you to speak of Our Lady.I have little knowledge of scripture, I am ashamed of my lack of piety, so I offer you no learned discourse, no spiritually uplifting treatise, I shall simply share with you my view of Mary, the Mother of God.

When I was young I saw Mary as a very romantic figure. My favourite image was of a beautiful young girl, with serene white face, blue eyes uplifted to heaven, long curling brown hair, smooth hands folded serenely on her breast, wearing a robe of the purest white embroidered in gold and covered with a pale blue cloak, - a lovely girl crowned witha  circle of stars.

Now that I am older I do not think of her that way at all. At times in my life when God seems very remote and far away, I think of the humanness of Mary, and am comforted by the knowledge that this woman who experienced things in her life that women today experience, is with the Lord and that she will intercede for me. Mary was a woman of great virtue and holiness, but today I will speak of her HUMANNESS.

Mary as a human, Mary as a girl, Mary as 'one of us'.

In the Catholic Church we first and foremost honour and pray to God our Father, Jesus His Son and the Holy Spirit - all three as One.

We also acknowledge the importance of Mary, the mother of Jesus and Joseph His earthly father and Mary's husband.

God wanted Jesus to have a mother and a father here on earth. He had his reasons for that. I also 'seek' Mary in my prayer life.

It was custom in my childhood years, for parents to add the name Mary to their children's chosen names. They did this as a tribute to Mary and also as an 'extra' support, as Mary was seen as Mother of all mothers. Who better to ask to keep an extra special eye on their child? My 3 brothers, my sister and I all carry her name.

My grandmother ( on maternal side) so loved Mary also that she used to encourage us to say 3 Hail Mary's before sleeping. This request has stayed with me all my years, I am 62 now. I admit to skipping nights - but also giving heed to that request. Especially when I have 'mother worries'.

It doesn't take much imagination to conjure up some HUMAN events in Mary's life. events that many woman face today.

The angel delivered the message of the Incarnation to a 14 year old Jewish girl. He told her she was going to bear a child who was the Son of God. The girl, Mary, accepted the will of the Lord.

Do not worry... all will be well! You'll see.

Yes, DO NOT WORRY!

How often have I heard those words?

On many occasions when 'things' happen is this one of the most uttered comments, meant as a comfort for sure, but none the less, easily said.

And I have said it too - countless times, to those who also spoke of 'things' that rocked their world.

Behind every door - no matter how well maintained that door may be, there are WORRY MOMENTS.

Short term worries and long term worries.

Some worries drive people to despair and other worries disappear as fast as they have arrived.

I read a fair few blogs - and in some of those people mention their worries.

In others the writers manage to openly discuss and discern their worries with others.

And in some - I detect that the optimism could be a cover up for their own worries.

Not that I think EVERYONE worries

OR....... is there not a household where there are NO worries?

Job prospects!

Relationship worries!

Financial worries!

Addiction worries!

Health worries!

I believe worrying to be a human condition. I also believe worrying can be identified as 'just being or showing concern(ed)'

I also think that the level of worry depends on the close relationship with those facing the issues listed above.

One worries more about one's closest relation ( spouse, sibling, parent) than that of a neighbour or friend.

As a believer - we are called NOT TO WORRY.

AH, YOU SAY " ONLY BELIEVERS AREN'T MEANT TO WORRY.

NO, we are all called not to worry - only believers have the added responsibility to follow the will of their God and to head his call to : NOT WORRY!

And that is sometimes very hard to do.

It means - letting go and letting GOD!

Not having control, not meddling, not being at the helm, not searching for the 'perfect' solution.

Matthew 6: 25-34 ( NIV) and Luke: 12:22-31

Do Not Worry

6:25–33pp—Lk 12:22–31

25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?

28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.


I know, I know- it all makes sense - is it easy - it should be but right this minute - NO!

Can I let go of this worry that now plagues me? 

I do my utmost - I soldier on and I pray - daily!

The Serenity prayer. 

A prayer of hope- of love and support.

Dear God, I know you love for me and all those in my care and who play a part in my life

I  know that small worries send ripples and larger ones send tidal waves in my life.

You calmed the storm Lord, you made the waves subside.

Level the storm in my heart Oh Lord!

Save me from drowning in my despair.

Be my safety net O Lord - drop me a life jacket of comfort

In you O Lord I put my trust!

Amen

How time flies- still Counting Blessings

I just CANNOT believe it has been 5 weeks since my last BLOG here.

OMGoodness me. I have neglected my readers for far too long.

But how joyful a message I have for you, you just won't believe.

I have a follow up on the Counting Blessings post from January!

If you want to reflect... feel free.

Well here the update:

How BLESSED and a HUGE miracle is this?

I have a great granddaughter.

To understand the relationship a read of the BLOG Counting Blessings - is useful.

Welcome into my life Rhiver.... welcome! Looking forward to cuddles on my next visit Down Under.

Rights ( or wrongs)

King Willem Alexander - 48 years young!

It has been a week of National Festive activities. One to come- our queen's birthday on May 17th. After which I can store my flag till next April ( unless some shattering event, happy or sad, rears it's head).

As always around this time many issues play a large part in headlines and discussions.

• About the monarchy and how it might need changing- Should it stay or go.

• About freedom and whether or not we have learnt from our mistakes -war springs to mind!

• About freedom of speech- being able to say whatever comes to mind- regardless of the hurt we may cause!

• About our country's well being both financial and political - whose 'fault' is it that we are 'poor'..

• About the number of public holidays we get - should we all be free on Christmas, Good Friday, 5th May? To mention a few.

Lest we Forget - We SHALL remember them!

As well as a number of other issues I may have unintentionally or been unaware of omitted to mention.

Looking at these statements all I can say is - we are a moaning people. How I would like to turn all these things around and say:

• Three cheers for our monarchy - They serve us well. Thank you.

• We remember those who died bringing peace to our country - let's honour them by caring for each other and appreciating that we have a country not at war.

• Our constitution states we are a free people, can think, act and be ourselves. That doesn't mean be rude or disrespectful - but be mindful that others don't think the same thoughts or hold the same ideals. They too have that same right! Choose your words wisely.

• About being appreciative for what we have - and if we are not happy with how things are - GO VOTE -  and have your say. Help make the changes - don't just moan about them. We have that possibility in total freedom and safety.

• The days that are 'holy' to some are not important to others. How hard is it to say which days SHOULD be free. We are gunning for a 24/7 working week. Sunday trading becoming more the norm. Sunday off unified the nation - in general terms that is. No day is really 'FREE' for all anymore.

70 years of freedom

Today - 70 years ago, the Netherlands was 'freed' from their enemy. 

How far have we travelled? Who  or what is our enemy now?

Are we really FREE? 

LIBERATED?

I totally miss the gratitude, the feeling of being fortunate- of being blessed to live the lives we are able to live in this country. All around me people moan and dispair about their situation. We sympathise with those less fortunate - still not fully realising our privileged lives. Our freedom, our wealth.

Religion has always been a point of discussion, diversity and item for debate. I am grateful I am allowed to believe in a God of love and compassion. No, HE isn't going to pull all the string to right the wrongs - that is OUR task. HE will HELP us though. Call on HIM and seek the advice needed to live life the way it was intended.

Love one and other as I love you!

Seek and you shall find!

Knock and doors will be opened unto you!

I will be with you always!

If we were to head the call and be loving to ALL and not just our personally selected few - what a freedom we would all experience.

Let's FREE the world people - Let's share the LOVE

Today!

Time to reflect, to slow down, to enjoy.......

My house is in total disarray. Although shifted end of last year- there is still a lot to sort out, throw out and allocate a permanent place.

Slowly but surely we can see the light at the end of the tunnel- it is getting brighter and brighter as we complete task after task.

Yesterday we finally got round to organising large storage cupboard  in the hall. It now holds 5 shelves and a rail for coats and jackets. It was a whole day job. Stripping, wallpapering, tidying and drilling holes. And at 8pm we were pretty satisfied with the result.

Today, sorting and organising. It is Sunday. Not something I would normally do today. The thing is- I am so 'had it' with boxes and piles of stuff hither and yon. I WANT IT FINISHED.

This week I am going to give it my best shot to BE DONE!

And it starts NOW!

Well, famous last words.

I went down to the shed- grabbed a couple of boxes and started sifting through the contents. I actually thought- you now what " I am going to tip all these negatives OUT! DONE with carting them from address to address.

I pulled a piece of paper out of the box- oh memories. As if it was meant to be. If I had thrown the whole contents of the box out- this would have been lost to me for ever.

So, time out:

SLOW ME DOWN LORD!

Slow me down, Lord

Ease the pounding of my heart by the quieting of my mind.

Steady my hurried pace 

with a vision of the eternal reach of time

Give me, amid the confusion of the day,

the calmness of the everlasting hills

Break the tensions of my nerves and muscles

with the soothing music of the singing stars, that

live in my memory

Help me to know the magical restoring power of sleep.

Teach me the art of taking minute vacations

of slowing down to look at a flower.

to chat with a friend

to pat a dog, to read

a few lines in a good book.

Slow me down Lord, and inspire me to

send my roots deep into the soil of life's

enduring values, that I may grow toward

the stars of my greater destiny.

I have no idea who wrote this- I copied it many many years ago off a poster and there was no mention of a name of the author. I do not even know how old it is - or when it was first published. Just reading it gives me a sense of rest, peace and space. So I looked it up online - I have had this in my position for such a long time- pre-internet!

Author: Wilfred A. Peterson - well so I thought. 

Then I found this- on a website called " A spiritual journey of healing.com".

Who wrote Slow me Down Lord?

This Slow Me Down Lord poem / prayer previously appeared here with the wrong author. 

According to Wikipedia, the poem, Slow me Down Lord, is written by Wilferd Arlan Peterson. This American author published 9 books and wrote for "Science of Mind" magazine.
He wrote regularly about the Art of Living and with his wife Ruth collaborated on inspirational writing, essays and poems.

Further on this thread you will see a suggestion from a visitor that the beautiful prayer poem was written by Holborn. 

But the mystery seems to have been solved. It is a Hittite prayer, well known in Turkey. See the comment below, and thank you for all your answers and the popularity of this page. 

It seems that whoever wrote Slow me Down Lord Prayer was writing something that God has written on all our hearts. 
When we read the poem we recognise the truth in them.

Just a chance find then - and once again 're-found'. It will be cherished.

Life, love, friendships and blessings

Oh dear, that last blog does sound very  'poor me-ish'. The message is clear though for me- yes life has disappointments. Get over it! 

And believe me, I am a fast learner. I get lots of practice.

Thing is, I am generally a positive person. And I approach each day with renewed zest and vigor awaiting what the day has in store and tackling it with the necessary energy.

It may be about a year or so ago that I joined a group of Christian Bloggers here in Nederland. Through this interaction I have 'met' a few lovely people whom I now consider to be friends.

As I am a member of the blogging world I read a variety of blogs. Even though I enjoy the blogs, not every writer is known to me- so I don't build up a relationship with that person. But some, some just touch me in a way that I get curious and I dig deeper. I leave a comment, share the blog or in some other way let know I have ' been' and read the blog. The upside of that is, that some now also visit my blog. A reciprocal arrangement of appreciation. So up lifting. I learn a lot from long time bloggers. Some already being published writers in their own right. Inspiring to say the least.

I want to highlight some of these ( and believe me I visit many more but too many to list). If you have a hobby, activity or interest you want to read more of , share or want to connect with- just google the blogs. You wil be amazed what is out there for your enjoyment, source of information or just relaxation or inspiration.

Blogging has enriched my life, brought me in touch with strangers who are now friends and blessed me in ways unprecedented. 

This blog has become a sort of promotion-advertisement to GO BLOG! Something I didn't really intend to do but just 'happened' as do many inspirations once I get going on the keyboard.

For those who have held a long time dream to write- go for it, for those wanting to read and learn- here is your opportunity to resource without having to got to the library or buy books.

One thing though- let the blogger know you have 'found' them. That you read their works. It nurtures and encourages the blogger to soldier on.

Enjoy the links-

Jeanette Levellie is one such Blogger whose pages I frequent: I recently ordered one of her books- The heart of humor: Sixty Helpings of Hilarity to nourish your Soul. I LOVE my hips like never before!

Then there is Jen Cudmore: An awesome writer and again, inspirational. She has started a series on Marriage problems. I think she is extremely courages in opening up in such an honest way. Oh pity this blogger wasn't around in the 1990's.

Another Blog I enjoy is that of Karen Lange. A multi talented author who also drops in from time to time. I am sure she has bruised fingers at the end of her busy writing day- as Karen writes for a multitude of media. I do so appreciate her hints, tips and words of encouragement.

Then two people who are so blessed, Marja and Jan. Their Blog Traveling Light as a way of spreading incredible good news, help and assistance to those in need. So awe inspiring and a great read. Marja is also a published writer and her books grace my shelves.



There are Foody bloggers, Childrearing bloggers, Music Bloggers, Gardening Bloggers, Quilting Bloggers- oh soooo many you wouldn't believe.

Go look, search and find. 

They are there for you!

Am I allowed to be disappointed.....?

Many a blogs of mine have been about the blessings I have received and continue to receive in this life. And believe me, I am more than just thankful for all those blessings.


Somehow though, silly as it sounds, I struggle with the emotion -

disappointment!

It feels so ungrateful.
It feels so ' spoilt child' like.
It feels so not christian.
It feels so greedy.

This emotion comes to play when things don't give the desired result.

I try to approach disappointments with a sense of sobriety- test my resistance to find out why I am not happy- not satisfied with something.

Generally I can 'put it behind me'. Realise that sometimes things don't work out according to 'my' plan but the alternative isn't bad either. Then I shed the feeling and it is a thing of the past.

But some things just stay niggling, stay waltzing around in my mind. Keep me unsettled and messed up. I say - it's ok - but it is NOT!

This problem has followed me into our new home. We have radically upgraded this apartment and are extremely proud and happy with our new dwelling. We have spent some time coordinating colours and style. Chose some new furniture and spent hours stripping, painting, wallpapering, tweaking the little bits and bobs.

For the big stuff we had professionals. Electrician, plumber, carpenters etc. We also needed to replace the windows for double glazing. The kitchen, toilet and bathroom needed a total overhaul.

It dawned on us - this may be our last shift, so let's make sure we make a good job of the interior- it has to see us into our old age and end of days so to speak.

This is where the crunch comes into play.

There are certain aspects that I have trouble with accepting.

And that's where I get all mixed up.

I have had to accept some situations that I know are going to be there for ever and the day!

They are not of my choosing.

And I am stuck with this unsettling feeling of dissatisfaction. How ungrateful is that?

But I am grateful for what I have - just disappointed in the things that went wrong.

It will take time to let them go - to distance myself from that feeling.

I won't, I JUST REFUSE let it get me DOWN or get the overhand.

It is my intention to embrace those things that 'bug' me.

Why is it so difficult to 'get along' with disappointments?

Life - what a blessing

To my children

( and all those who read my Blogs)

Today just a wee note to say - Enjoy everything you attempt today.

This moment will not return, there are memories but no re-runs!

And that is the magic of life.

We get one shot at everything we do.

So do it as well as you can with the capability, knowledge and insights of that very moment.

Today I need to focus on all the jobs on my list.

I know that while writing this I am fulfilling a need to just say 'hi'. I can tick the box.

Go for it - go for LIFE.  Go for your goals and dreams.

Doesn't matter if the sun doesn't shine.

You shine and spread your warmth with all those you encounter today.

Be the LIGHT.

Be your unique YOU!

Voting - the process

Yesterday the voting booths were open for business in Nederland.

The 12 Provincial State elections. All politically motivated - all candidates convinced they have what it takes to rule our country.

It isn't my intention to dive into our political arena, do an analyses or even discuss the politics or the politicians.

In fact, I want to write about the voting process. Or at least my vision and insights as I have experienced them.

A number of years ago my husband suggested I volunteer to take my place at a voting booth as official. These booths are manned by volunteers, some with political history and connections others just out of service to their community. It isn't a glamour job - I do however enjoy the event as the people with whom I share this task make the day ( and night) a pleasant one.

The rewards - yes a small monetary deposit in my account, the pleasure of being of service to others, the fellowship with those I undertake the task and the enjoyment and interaction with the voters who visit our booth.

Maybe the place 'our booth' is in makes a difference to the general atmosphere - the foyer of a church. This church being right at the start ( or end) of the township's shopping centre, De Meent. Also strategically placed between two retirement/ care homes, and at the start of a residential area.

Our voters come from all walks of life - from shoppers, office workers, shop attendants, mums and dads, the elderly and the youth. So a diverse section of the community.

At 6:30 am the lights go on, the necessary supplies and settings are arranged, the voting forms hand counted, registered and laid ready. Lists checked, forms signed, chairs and tables placed, coffee and other refreshments provided. Time out moments scheduled, "Voting booth open" signs placed on sidewalks and at 7:30 open for business.

The first voters are generally office staff on their way to work or mum's and dad's after dropping children at preschool or the like.

Those of us seated at the tables are instructed in our task - we are not to influence the voter in any way or form. We take care to wear clothing that doesn't affect voting preference ( no political party colours), but that does reflect our role as voting staff officials. We greet and receive the voters with respect - ensuring our neutrality when conversations tend to involve choices to be made.

I have been part of a team of 4 for a number of elections now - and see some faces regularly appearing when there is a voting 'moment'. I also note that some faces disappear, realising that not everyone is either interested or able to come vote.

There are characters that leave the same impression all the time, there are cheery voters, disillusioned voters ( they do keep coming back though), optimistic voters, well informed voters, curious voters, first timer voters, knowledgable voters, searching voters, and ho hum- who cares voters.

As an election booth official it is my duty, along with my colleagues, to see to it that everyone and everything runs according to plan. That rules are abided by, that people feel safe and protected in their freedom to vote and that their privacy is guaranteed. So no peeking, no rushing, no influencing and certainly no judgement calls.

It is also our duty to see to it that the process is carried out according to the law of our land. That the counting process in without blemish ( no electronic voting here) and the results are passed on to the rightful authority.

A long and (what could be) stressful day - starting when the birds are awakening and ending when the rest of our world sleeps.

We are fortunate to be able to bring out our vote in a peaceful and free country. I believe that many do not realise the privilege and responsibility this holds. I may not be totally politically informed - I do know:

If I don't vote I can't complain or have my say.

Why do you blog?

"Why do you blog?" A friend and I were enjoying a leisurely coffee at a cafe. We hadn't seen each other for a while and it was time for a catch up.

"So why do you?' she continued. Before I could answer she added " I would be ever so embarrassed to let the world in on my life - you just flaunt yourself in pubic and don't seem to care what people think. Do you really believe they want to read about your impressions, ideals and experiences?"

Flaunt, embarrassed!!! I was struck dumb for a moment. Where on earth was this coming from - and where was the conversation going to?

Our, or at least her tirade went on about how privacy, freedom of speech, the written word and the dangers of Internet all had their moment of glory. She wanted me to know how concerned she was and also how negative her experiences had been reading some of the blogs written by these 'so called' experts and their views. Surely I didn't think I was contributing positively to society by being ' one of them".

Well, this was the last topic I thought we would be discussing today. I was completely caught by surprise. My brain was racing trying to discover what had brought on this waterfall of words - gunning for me it seemed and my writing efforts. I tried to make the right noises at the appropriate moments - wanting to hear more while trying to gauge where this was all coming from.

Suddenly it became clear when the item of 'topics' was aired. How did I pick my topics? " I mean", she said " you need to be pretty well informed before you can advise or even pretend to know all there is to know about something". Apparently I had written about a subject close to her heart - winter blues' and this had not been well received. Well, after all, I didn't suffer from it, and where did I get the nerve to write that with the oncoming spring - those negatively affected by the dark months - could now come out of hibernation and enjoy the sunbeams once again. ( in fact that wasn't how I had written the piece but it was how she had interpreted it).

I let it ride - no use defending myself or my writing passion. As we ordered our second coffee my friend leaned over and reached for a weekly left laying on the next table. " Oh", she said, " have you read the latest installment of Anna's Diary - wow, this woman is amazing. I love reading about her escapades".

I suppressed a grin - let's have a muffin with our coffee shall we?

Letter of farewel to a dear friend

Our last encounter - November 2013 - Waikanae

Dear Colin

I tried to remember exactly what year we met. It was somewhere in the late 70's. Where,  I do remember -  Taradale, Napier to be exact. We had just joined the parish of St Mary's in Taradale. You and your lovely Clare we members there too.

It appeared you were a dutch - kiwi having lived in New Zealand for many a year. That created a bond.

In 1982 you and Clare were blessed with the lovely Anita. A wee daughter to brighten your day. Her golden curls and freckles brightening up any room or space she entered.  

Later Kelly arrived, a playmate for Anita and more fun and laughter for you and Clare as loving parents.

Tragedy and grief wasn't spared either of you as it became clear that Anita's body wasn't functioning as it should.

What a worrying time and sadness as her health deteriorated before your very eyes. My heart bled for you all.

I travelled to Nederland and took with me a video and photos of Anita and you all for your family. An important visit to be able to communicate what was happening in your lives. A double feeling for me. Being honoured with such an important task - and being saddened due to the contents of my message.

Privilege should have it that Easter, when we visited you only days prior to Anita's death. Having a warm and wonderful visit - not knowing how quickly her short life would come to an earthly end.

Colin, in all the years we have know each other, you stayed strong in your faith despite your grief. You and Clare raised a beautiful young woman called Kelly who now, is her mother's support and haven.

The news of your failing health and finally your death has hit me hard.

I mourn for you, for Clare and Kelly and all those whose lives you touched.

It has been a privilege and honour to have had you as my friend

Rest in Peace Colin. Thank you...... for being you.

your friend

Anita

I haven't retired- I will return!!

Hi there trusty readers

Yes it has been a while

Shortly I will be able to pick up te reigns again after a short absence.

Not planned but unannounced - life got too busy

But you haven't been out of my thoughts

Plenty of subject matter to want to write about

Now to get my A- back into G and reschedule my days and activities

After having shifted, visited my (grand) children Down Under and trying to finish unpacking, re-organise my writing space, hanging up pictures and trying to start my plants on the terrace, I am slowly approaching that lovely bright light at the end of a very long tunnel.

Be patient, I will be back - SOON, maybe sooner than I think or at least imagine.