Reflection

Since I was basically published twice on the last post and finally able to delete one of them. I was attempting to write a reflection when I hit publish. So as a added here it is. This morning as I was doing the usual, getting the bird his food, a peppy song popped through. I love when this happens on occasion. It took me awhile to find the song because all I could recall was the tune and the words monkey business. The words produced some very strange songs, but upon reflection of the song something about jungle came in. Voila!! I found the song. I was delighted because there were words to the effect are you listening.

To me that meant the world, to know that God is so good. For someone else it may be senseless but for me I understand how God can speak to a soul that listens in various ways.

Words to think on.

I don't know if there is much on my thoughts that would affect having certain lyrics come through on two different mornings. But I had them again this morning and I'm not sure what to make of it. Something about Dr Zhivago and some other words. But I did locate the song to hear the whole thing. It's a song done from 98 degrees called "The Hardest Thing." As I write this I have tried to recall the exact words that played in my thoughts upon waking but all I had that really sticks out is the word Dr Zhivago. The song is the right one too. I wonder if that is the key about the whole thing. Maybe I should watch the movie or more or less pray for more discernment and guidance from the Holy Spirit. Anyway please enjoy the music.

David Gates - Bread - Goodbye Girl - Lyrics

I woke to the words Goodbye Girl not knowing the reason for it. Then I heard the song and the words.

Ever So Softly

Last night I believe I learned more after Scripture sharing than I have learned in quite awhile. Totally expecting to go home right after, but found myself in an hour long conversation with Keith. I learned much about his faith and how he came to be where he is in it, that is learning about Theology. He more or less opened my eyes to many things. I am grateful in many ways for the opportunity to have the time given to me in this way.

It's the discovery about seeing things in a different way in a new approach to what I've been dealing with lately. A tremendous blessing!! I went home lighthearted and with a renewed purpose about the gifts of the Holy Spirit. So today, after work I stopped by the Chapel to offer my gratitude, my prayers for vocations, and for those whom I offered to pray for, I approached prayer in a different way and perspective. As I gazed upon the Blessed Sacrament that is Jesus our Lord, in the tiniest imaginable way a song was faintly heard. I knew at once it was from the artist Robert Kochis, yet the melody of the song was faintly familiar, but the song was unknown. It matters not at this time as at the time it occured my heart rejoiced for the love that was given at the time. The smile that spread upon my face spoke loudly of the grace that was poured out upon my heart. It just might be that I may never know what song it was just the fact that I received what was meant to receive or relayed to have a better understanding.

I am not ashamed to relay this wonderful moment, I don't question it, only if it was something truly far off and unusual in the way it was given. The part of the discernment as always comes with moments such as this. But our Lord does speak ever so quietly and if my thoughts were full of others stuff I would not have heard what he wanted me to hear in the very depths of my heart.

Wow

Surrendering to God's Will

Those words yesterday morning were unmistakable seemingly coming from distance in the guise of flowing womans singing voices that I took to be the Daughters of St. Paul. Yet, upon listening to the song I posted, I played it and it seemed right. Today was different as I listened it was familiar, yet those words were not even part of the song. Come, take my hand was not even there. Should it matter, no, since I did get what was meant to be given. Possibly to also draw my attention to that particular song as well. He knows my heart better than anyone.

I do trust and believe more than ever His grace and those blessings to keep me ever in focus of my path. I believe this is the first time that words that came in the form of a song did not match the words of a song. But the song sung was in the same form of the words sung interiorly. I understood what was given and took it a step further in what I was to understand. This at least makes sense to me. It's also a lesson in humility as well. I received and went in search, found and took to heart what I needed at the time. Who knows but God for what purpose it was done this way.

Anyway, last night I took my parents to LaSalette because my mom wanted to go before it was too cold for them. We arrived and had time to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation before Mass. I think that song had a huge part in my own confession, because my heart was totally given to God. The Priest who heard my confession, I enjoy going to him, and I can't even pronounce his name unless he says it first. I feel very comfortable going to him, which I usually don't feel when I go to others. I do know that at least on those occasions when I do go to the Shrine and avail myself of the Sacrament it's not always with the same Priest. That too keeps us humble.

None of us were disappointed seeing the lights this year, they are magnificent. A definite must see. There was a bus that came all the way from New Jersey to see the lights too. That is awesome to know. It's nice to know that Parishes and communities arrange this for the season of Advent. To help them prepare for the coming birth of Jesus. I believe with all my heart in what God has done for me and continues to do in preparing me.

Lift High The Cross

There was a brief moment when this song title interiorly came about. The words Lift High the Cross was remarkable. Thank you Holy Spirit for the words. Here are the lyrics to the song.

Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim,
Till all the world adore his sacred name.

1. Come, brethren follow where our Savior trod,
Our King victorious, Christ, the Son of God.

2. Led on their way by this triumphant sign,
The hosts of God I conqu'ring ranks combine

3. O Lord, once lifted on the glorious tree,
As thou hast promised, draw men unto thee.

4. Thy kingdom come, that earth's despair may cease
Beneath the shadow of its healing peace.

5. For thy blest cross which doth for us atone,
creation's praises rise before thy throne.

Light A Candle #2

God is always generous in giving His love. This morning upon waking those song words, light a candle to start a new dawn were once again present. The words are from a song called "Light A Candle" that is sung by Daniel ODonnell. This morning was a treasure, since lately my listening has been mostly on the albums "Signatures" by John Michael Talbot and his other one "Meditations In The Spirit."

I was thinking too about confessions and what makes a good one. Quite sometime ago, months I think it was, when I went and was told I made a good confession. That happened to me a few times when I was told that. It had me thinking about how I did those particular confessions to merit those words from the Priest at the end. And all I can think, when I was relating my sins I was forming the words as if I were speaking directly to God himself, but upon reflection I think it may also had to do with how truly sorry we are when we are relating those sins. For the truth of our sorrow to be heard by the Priest. Or was it the Priest himself, who just happened to be one in unity with our Lord? I wonder if others have also experienced the depth of confession that evokes this response from the Priest.

Anyway, I went to Mass yesterday afternoon to hear such a delightful heartfelt prayers by a Priest during Adoration prior to Mass. I think that was the highlight of my day to know of his love for the Eucharist. That is always a pleasure to see a beacon burning bright, almost like the song itself.

My Beloved

We hear songs but often fail to notice the beauty of the song and the words that are imparted or even notice how it moves the soul. Yet, there are moments some songs stir the spirit within to know the beauty of how much God gives us. This song, done beautifully by John Michael Talbot, has done just that, stirred the soul when these words are sung about. My spirit exalts in God my savior, for he has looked with mercy on my lowliness. How deeply these words touch my heart. Our blessed Mother first spoke these words long ago when she was chosen by God to be the Mother of Jesus. None can compare to what God has done for her. With understanding in how truly magnificent God works, my soul too rejoices in these words when I hear them. A sinner such as I, can rejoice in God my savior for he looked upon this lowly servant and gave so much of Himself.

My dearest blessed Mother, I honor you for allowing me to be part of your sons life. I honor God my father for chosing me to be his. A bride of his heart. I have chosen Him above all else in the world. I yearn for him always, my thoughts are on Him constantly. There is no rest nor respite for the constant longing my soul endures. Those precious moments when absolute joy surrounds my heart, I know that is when he kisses my soul with his love. It is then that I too who exalts in God my savior.

Sing A New Song

No words can ever express how grateful I am for such a delight this morning. God is so good.


Sing A New Song


Sing a new song unto the Lord
Let your song be sung from mountains high.
Sing a new song unto the Lord
Singing alleluia.

Yahweh's people dance for joy.
Oh come before the Lord.
And play for him on glad tambourines,
And let your trumpet sound.

Sing a new song unto the Lord
Let your song be sung from mountains high.
Sing a new song unto the Lord
Singing alleluia.

Rise oh children from your sleep.
Your Savior now has come.
He has turned your sorrow to joy,
And filled your soul with song.

Sing a new song unto the Lord
Let your song be sung from mountains high.
Sing a new song unto the Lord
Singing alleluia.

Light A Candle

This morning the words highlighted in red were playing over and over upon waking up. The CD I have of Daniel ODonnel doesn't have this song on it, yet I recognized the singer, I haven't listened to any of his songs in a while. Last night we started to do Lectio Divina during Scripture Sharing. What an evening of reflection! I gave Sister Therese my photo album of the Eucharist to look through last night. That's the second time that album has been given out for a period of time. It's always been kept with me. It's amazing how God's Word is. People don't realize how alive the Bible is in their lives unless they begin to see with new eyes the love God has for them. Like this song that I awoke to, how amazing God is when we place ourselves in His hands.

LIGHT A CANDLE

Just one little candle
Can shine through the night
A symbol of faith
A flame that keeps burning
That never stops turning
The darkness away

Light a candle
To start a new dawn
Let it be like a prayer
And together we’ll shine
In a moment of time
We can share
Light a candle
To start a new dawn

Life is for giving
For those who are living
In love’s ray of light
And life is for caring
So never stop sharing
Your beacon so bright

Chorus

Bridge

We can unite the world from one tiny spark
Its better to light a candle
Than curse in the dark

Chorus

Light a candle
To start a new dawn
Light a candle
To start a new dawn

Light a candle
Light a candle

Possible

One thing people never get over is unconditional love. A few words from this song came through ever so softly while sitting quietly pondering the remnants of my life. More than anything God knows our hearts, at least mine. The words highlighted are words that were softly known. God knows more than anything how much my heart would break if he were to leave my side. I would never get over him, it would take an eternity and then some. A strange song to come through the depths of my heart. But as I read the lyrics I also have come to realize that sometimes our dreams destiny's pass us by, and that's sometimes how I feel with my life. Yet God's presence is my dream and my destiny at this time in my life. Where my heart is aimed directly for his love.

I'll Be Over You

Some people live their dreams
Some people close their eyes
Some people's destiny
Passes by

There are no guarantees
There are no alibis
That's how our love must be
Don't ask why

[Bridge:]
It takes some time
God knows how long
I know that I can forget you

As soon as my heart stops breakin'
Anticipating
As soon as forever is through
I'll be over you

Remembering times gone by
Promises we once made
What are the reasons why
Nothing stays the same

[Bridge:]
There were the nights holding you close
Someday I'll try to forget them
Someday I'll be over you

The Sound Of Silence

(you tube video removed on march 10, 2009)

The past few days have been quite a whirlwind. After the last blog entry, it was a check the link to make sure it worked. But it led to an ongoing musical youtube from one artist to another. It was a time of recalling when love for music truly began. A song from the Platters called "Smoke Gets In Your Eyes"from the early days of my childhood has always brought to mind the very first time I heard it to many others that brought memories.

We are at the end of the year with pretty much the same thing going on all over the place. Fond memories of way back when to what happened throughout the year. I came across this from Simon and Garfunkel called "The Sound Of Silence." I couldn't help but post it, even though it seems a bit sad, it brought so much to me in the way of the last few years. Words that speak quietly to the soul in the sound of silence. A place where I have long learned to listen to God speak softly to my soul.

There are many that I have listened to that spoke beautifully of my love for God, but songs that are meant only for the ears of my heart. I may not sing quite good nor play an instrument but one thing for certain I love the harmony in song and the beauty of a song that tells of love. At least for me it is where I sing silently to God of my undying love for him. Where in the sound of silence his word is embedded in my heart.

More or Less

While looking for the Holy Family I came across The Work of God and found a wonderful site of prayers and Catholic information. It took me awhile after browsing through and praying the prayers to find it again after I closed the site. I forgot to add it to my favorites. After locating it I made sure it's in there. Plus I wanted to share this site with others as well.

I love how many can create and build up God's Kingdom and share their faith with the world. One thing about loving God is the ability to love all else even when they err. Aren't we called to love the sinner as well. We may not like how they live or what they may say, but if we avoid those who transgress, how on earth is God's love able to bring conversion to their hearts. Maybe that's why during the years of Jesus' ministry he ministered to the poor, the sick, and the sinner. He didn't go around avoiding, rather he brought love.

St. Paul is a perfect example of how he brought love and conversion to a heart against God. Jesus went straight to the heart and worked quite a miracle. Jesus didn't pass down to us how to be picky and choosy, he gave us himself and his example of extreme love for mankind. What a blessing we have received on that Holy Night he was born.

That brings me to a discussion that we had with Father Plasse about a song called "O Holy Night" or as he said it in French "Minuits, chrétiens." Between my mother and him they recalled those long ago times of a Church filled with people and the beauty of this song. This is a song that truly touches the heart and thankfully so. I've always favored how it is sung by Johnny Mathis, he does it so beautifully, so listen to it here for a treat.

La Salette Shrine

Sometimes days don't always start out so good especially when there is a need for spiritual cleansing. Not always knowing for certain the why of it, but the end result is a renewal. All I knew is I needed reconciliation. Yesterday morning I thought about going to an area Church that offers confession and toyed with the thought of heading to Stockbridge to the Divine Mercy Shrine as well. But the thought of LaSalette poked through so I grabbed my camera and headed east. I even managed to take the wrong exit to get there and found myself on a very busy route 1 and attempted to hopefully get there in time to receive the Sacrament of Penance before Mass.

It was close for sure with less than ten minutes to pay a visit to the restroom then to the Reconciliation Chapel and then hopefully be in the Church before Mass. The timing all came about beautifully too. Part of God's plan for sure. I have found that when things happen according to his plan things flow very smoothly.

The Nativity scene is absolutely beautiful as shown by this picture.

Part of the evening included a 45 minute concert by Father Pat, but my eyes tend to focus on the central figure that is hanging on the Cross or the tabernacle where our Lord is ever present.



This one is in the direction of the Stations of the Cross and the outdoor Chapel where the Creche is. A statue of Jesus is holding the large anchor. I took quite a few pictures but most of them came out very dark. I used the flash too. Some of the pictures inside the Church came out dark too, but the inside lighting was also lower. This year it seems the season of lights are extended to Epiphany which is January 4. So if anyone in the surrounding area would like they are more than welcome to see for themselves a beautiful setting on Holy Ground.

Include a visit to one of Father Pat's concerts it's amazing how words can touch a heart. For the past few years I have experienced quite a bit when attending a concert, this time as well. "Holy Light" was quite strong and this is on a second time that it came across again. Sometimes I wonder what significance they have for me. Just like when I receive them in my sleep or at Mass. I think I was in denial about this gift and the relating of it over the years. I didn't understand it too well, but then again when God chooses his time to reveal things to a heart he does it magnificently. One thing that being at Mass or in a Church is the joy that I feel when I am doing God's will.

What I would like to do is also invite those who read this blog to also listen to Father Pat's beautiful music and hopefully obtain a DVD called "Tears of Love" a delightful video with very beautiful songs about Mary. It's all about our Blessed Mother and her love for us. After all she said "Yes" and gave us Jesus. Without her we all would be in the dark.

Delightful

This was a nice way to wake up this morning with a few words from this song. So I'll have to say I love you in a song. I fall ever more deeper in love with our Lord when he delights the heart with his loving messages.

The Color Of Love

Masculine

I have had the good fortune of being given a cd from Marguerites cousin Paul by Robert Kochis called May The Angels Welcome You. and one by Daniel O'Donnell. It's beautiful to listen to. I haven't quite worn it out yet that's how much I have been playing it. My collection is mostly of John Michael Talbot, Vince Ambrosetti, The Monks of Weston Priory, Father Pat, Josh Groban, Tony Melendez, Interior Castle, and the all time Catholic Classics, Mark Forrest, and many Gregorian Chants and I've missed a few that are not in my field of vision at the moment. So when I received a new one by an entirely different singer, of course then it has become the most popular for listening pleasure. Amazing what music and a wonderful voice can do to a soul. Except hearing a deep male voice somehow stirs the heart and soul, go figure on that.

Even when I hear mens voices when talking to people on the phone and hearing those deep particular ones, I sit in absolute amazement at the beauty of their voice. I always wondered why I love the sound of a male voice even in song. If I knew a singer who sang at that particular level then I could use them as an example of what the deep sound is. Well anyway that's my particular fixation with voices and singing, one could say they sound absolutely masculine. I was thinking about people who have been in my life, and truth to tell none spoke with that type of masculine voice. Not even men I dated and now I wonder where on earth did I ever get this love of a particular deep tone. Sigh, one of these days something will give and I will see why I love deep sounding mens voices. I went to check on youtube by checking tenors and baritone singers and didn't even come up with one close enough, even the bass are too low and deep. So I will continue that ultimate search then.

Restoration

The Pope is doing a wonderful thing to restore harmony in regards to music with the Mass. It seems to be the fad to try to make voices blend that do not sound harmonious at all. When reflecting upon how far we have come in the world of music and what we deem melodious is not always the case. Because we are human and our ears are all tuned in to what we all prefer to hear. We sometimes fail to understand God's beauty or his hearing in regards to what might please HIM.

But then we go back to the Mass and how choirs attempt to sing in such a way that exludes the body of the Church during Mass. How do people follow along and sing when they hear variations that they cannot follow. I've seen people cringe as well as myself at times when the music was atrocious and not suitable for reflection. Granted there are many a song that that are plain and simple but in harmony. Sometimes the complexity of the music and the complex way the attempts to make a different sound can create what is not beautiful. The same can be said when mixing colors, sometimes we create mud rather than a clear picture. But mind you this is my humble opinion on the matter. Not all music in this world is harmonious nor is it pleasant to listen to. I pray that our Blessed Pope Benedict succeeds in restoring harmony and unity in the Church. The sanctity of Mass, the very holiness that has been missing for so very long is slowly coming back. And I'm sure that pleases God very much. After all it is His in the first place and who are we to change what God deems beautiful and pleasing. In that regard I too concur with our Heavenly Father, the Mass is where I can give my self offering to Him for all that He does for me by honoring Him on the one day he asks to give to him.

Sing Hosanna!

It was nice to have a day off, just not used to having them in the week. I didn't realize how long a work period it was since I ended one job and continued to the next without time off. So today was a nice day to get some things done. Straightening out the closet was one of the long overdue things to be done. I'm so happy that I can finally get rid of long held clothes that I was hoping to fit into, it was time to let them go. Taking one moment at a time and tackling one and completing it is important.

I took my mom to the store and bumped into an old friend from an old job I used to work at. He's still with them, and found out his girlfriend of two years has cancer. When he was telling me about it, I heard the tears in his voice. This man shares the same birthdate as I do, not the same year, so I know how he is in regards to taking care and being there for his girlfriend. I'm proud of him for it.

It was odd too since earlier in the day I was in the general vicinity of where I used to work, and thought how nice it would be to see one them. God delivered, later in the day that person. I told my mom that as we were headed back home. After unloading the car and putting some of the food stuff away, the strangest thing occured. I began to sing, "Sing Hosanna, sing hosanna, sing hosanna, sing alleluia." And by now it no longer is strange either. These words were sung I believe in Church, but unsure to what part of the Mass they were sung. I could almost hear the children singing this, because the kids sing it. It was nice to have this special grace.

I think part of growing and accepting the graces that are given make a difference. But I can't help recall that night on Holy Thursday and the feeling of a new softness to my person, and I can't explain it in a way to justify it. Nor how the prayer flowed so easily when it began so hard.
A friend from my last job had emailed me and wrote this "the journey down the narrow road to life awaits you, many will choose the wide road, for those ones will be lost forever." I was stunned by those words Henry wrote but also knew the truth in them too. Henry is an amazing guy, he wrote me such a nice letter to read after I left my last job. People often come into our lives for a reason, Henry is like a spiritual brother, he always called me sister.