Rx for the Soul

Thankful Thursdays

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2012-02-09T14:15:02Z

Some time ago while reading One Thousand Gifts, a book wherein the author embraces everyday blessings, I thought to start my own list. At first, it was a piece of cake, but once I was done listing the obviously important big stuff like health, family, faith, friends, etc., it became progressively difficult because I didn't want my list to take a shallow tone as I started to pen down things like dark chocolate, daisies, sun block, café Cubano....But truth is, I am thankful for those things too! Ironically, it's been precisely the small stuff that's often made me realize that even on days when I feel anger, anxiety, exhaustion, pain, unforgiveness, disappointment, fear, or what have you, there's always, always, always something to be thankful for.

What's great about this exercise is that it prompts me to reflect on more than the obvious. It opens my eyes, especially on days when my sight is blurred by discontent, to a slew of gifts that show me that in the succession of frames my life is there are many snapshots of happy. And because I find it difficult to be both genuinely grateful and grumpy at the same time, I end up choosing to antidote my toxic emotions with gratitude, and consequently make peace with what's on my plate.

On that note, I'll be posting "Thankful Thursdays." Please join me every week and share your "gifts" too (here, on the blog's Facebook and/or Twitter pages) when the post comes out. Don't miss the chance to deliberately contemplate and share your blessings, big or small, and trigger someone else's snapshot of happy.

I'll kick off today's with a biggie: I'm thankful for my children...they are my oxygen; and Cuban coffee...it helps me keep up with them.

Your turn.

"In daily life we must see that it is not happiness that makes us grateful, but gratefulness that makes us happy."
~ Steindl-Rast

A Matter of Inconvenience

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2012-01-20T20:52:44Z

As of the start of this writing, what I'm feeling is disappointment. I trust by the time I post it I will feel differently. The last couple of days though, whole other story.

Earlier this week, my son was rear ended by a teenager obviously not paying attention. Fortunately no one was hurt. This story should end right here, because what else should matter? Except that like with most incidents, there are consequences to deal with. In this instance, getting our vehicle repaired. To that end, my husband and I chose to play nice (as we would hope others would do for us) in an effort to save the other teen from the wrath of license points and higher insurance, and agreed to work out an arrangement between the adults for the auto repairs. Within minutes a deal was reached verbally and in writing and everyone went on their merry way. Worked out for all. Or so I thought.

I won't get into details so as not to crank myself up again, but suffice it to say the events that followed have put a dent (no pun intended) in my willingness to trust another's word (at least for the time being). What ever happened to accountability and responsibility? A good reminder that life is a constant lesson. I live and learn.

Despite the turn this eventful week took, I feel good about our initial choice to help another and even better about our actions thereafter. Surely, I'm still bothered by the whole thing (honestly, up until last night I was kind of mad and frustrated....grrrrr!....that kind), but that passed. I can't say the same about my being disappointed. I'm still feeling that, although that's passing too.

After all, in the grand scheme of things, I realize this mostly is a matter of inconvenience. We have to take the time and spend the money to replace the damaged part on the truck, while my cousin's husband patiently, eagerly, and faithfully awaits a new heart to replace the damaged one in his body.

'Nuff said.

"I thank Thee first because I was never robbed before;
second, because although they took my purse they did not take my life;
third, because although they took my all, it was not much; and fourth
because it was I who was robbed, and not I who robbed."
~Matthew Henry

"It all depends on how we look at things, and not on how things are
in themselves. The least of things with a meaning is worth more in life
than the greatest of things without it."
~Carl Jung

Simply, thank you.

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2012-01-13T22:02:55Z

It's been over 7 years since I first started sharing tidbits of writings with my closest allies, despite doubting anyone would be interested in what I thought or had to say. It was the surprising feedback I received that prompted the creation of Rx for the Soul shortly thereafter.

The past few years this blog has enjoyed visits not just from those close allies, but also from thousands of guests from all over the States and across the pond.

I thank you for your visits, your reading, your countless comments, e-mails, and texts supporting and critiquing the posts, for subscribing, for even "liking" and "following" it in the world of cyberspace, and yes, for passing it on.

I hope that this year I can provide to you words that count, and that you continue to be part of this blog, and my life.

God bless.

"Fill your paper with the breathings of your heart."
- William Wordsworth

Be up to the Test!

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2012-01-10T16:43:55Z

A good friend shared this with me today. I want to share it with you:

Several years ago, a preacher from out-of-state accepted a call to a church in Houston, Texas. Some weeks after he arrived, he had an occasion to ride the bus from his home to the downtown area. When he sat down, he discovered that the driver had accidentally given him a quarter too much change. As he considered what to do, he thought to himself, 'You'd better give the quarter back. It would be wrong to keep it.' Then he thought, "Oh forget it, it's only a quarter. who would worry about this little amount? Anyway, the bus company gets too much fare; they will never miss it. Accept it as a 'gift from God' and keep quiet.'

When his stop came, he paused momentarily at the door, and then he handed the quarter to the driver and said, 'Here, you gave me too much change.' The driver, with a smile, replied, 'Aren't you the new preacher in town?'

'Yes' he replied.

'Well, I have been thinking a lot lately about going somewhere to worship. I just wanted to see what you would do if I gave too much change. I'll see you at church on Sunday.'

When the preacher stepped off the bus, he literally grabbed the nearest light pole, held on, and said, 'Oh God, I almost sold your Son for a quarter.'

Our lives are the only Bible some people will ever read. This is an example of how much people watch us as Christians, and will put us to the test! Always be on guard -- and remember -- You carry the name of Christ on your shoulders when you call yourself 'Christian.'

Watch your thoughts; they become words.

Watch your words; they become actions.

Watch your actions; they become habits.

Watch your habits; they become character.

Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.

Have a great day!

Win or lose, it's how you play the game...of Life.

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2012-01-09T22:24:05Z

Don't tell Tebow this is all just about football. Tebowmania is about so much more.

Before the game yesterday, he met with 16-year-old Bailey Knaub from nearby Loveland, Colorado. The girl is battling Wegener's Granulomatosis, a disease that affects the vital organs, and has undergone six dozen surgeries, chemotherapy, and has lost a lung. She is the 13th "wish kid" Tebow has hosted at a game this season. "You know, I'm playing a game, but this little girl has had 73 surgeries and she's fighting for her life. That's real perspective," Tebow told reporters. "I'm very thankful for the platform that God has given me...because I have an opportunity to affect people," Tebow said during the post-game conference last night.

Aside from going on yearly mission trips to the Philippines since he was 15 years old, Tebow talks in hospitals, schools, and prisons here in the U.S. His foundation funds a ministry that supports 650 orphans. This offseason, he'll again visit the Philippines, this time to break ground on a children's hospital, a 30-bed surgical facility scheduled to open in 2013.

I'm a fan. Not just because I like the Gators, not just because I was at that incredible National Championship Game in '09, and not just because I met him and shook his hand last June. I'm a fan because of what he represents -- what is good and decent about humanity. I hope and pray God gives him the courage to continue to walk his talk.

[Tebow threw for 316 yards against the Steelers yesterday.
His average per yard was 31.6.
The peak in view rating was 31.6.
All of this on Jan 8, the three year anniversary of Tebow wearing John 3:16 in the 2009 National Championship Game which sparked 90 million Google searches for John 3:16.

Just sayin'.]

My wish for you...

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-12-22T17:14:23Z

My dearest family and friends, another year of precious life has gone by. I take this moment to wish all of you wonderful days ahead. Days filled with health, happiness, love, peace, prosperity, good company and lots of laughter...lots and lots of laughter. I wish you a delightful Christmas and a happy New Year: may it bring you new hopes and renewed vigour to traverse the way before you.

Though I may not be with each of you in person, I am always with you in spirit. May God bless you, my friends, my family, today and always. Catch you again in 2012.

With much love and prayer,
Connie

Another year I enter
Its history unknown;
Oh, how my feet would tremble
To tread its paths alone!
But I have heard a whisper,
I know I shall be blest;
"My presence shall go with thee,
And I will give thee rest."

What will the New Year bring me?
I may not, must not know;
Will it be love and rapture,
Or loneliness and woe?
Hush! Hush! I hear His whisper;
I surely shall be blest;
"My presence shall go with thee,
And I will give thee rest."
- Author Unknown-

The True Meaning of Christmas

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-12-09T14:23:57Z

Hoping all of you are enjoying this Advent season.

No portion of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent. Copyright © 2004-2011 Rx for the Soul / Connie Perez. All rights reserved.

Once upon a time I was a princess – and then I woke up.

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-11-10T14:08:20Z

As Thanksgiving nears every year and I begin to be more in tune with gratefulness (I should be this “in tune” year round), I always think back to the time period that changed my life forever – those years of missionary work.

At a time when selfishness, arrogance, and taking things for granted defined my young adulthood, the experiences I had in those third-world communities during that phase of my life gave me first-hand insight into the real meaning of humility and gratitude.

From nerve-wracking trips up mountains through rugged and dangerous terrain, to shoveling dirt during construction of schools and aqueducts, to painting churches, to washing clothes in rivers, to tending to villagers’ open cuts, scrapes, and tooth aches, to distributing countless boxes of donated clothing and medicine, to sleeping on floors, to using latrines (have you ever used a latrine in the dark of night on the edge of a mountain in the middle of nowhere? It’s like being in your own horror movie). All of them experiences which shook me to my core and made me realize how fortunate I was; am.

My parents, from very early on, made sure to show me and tell me how this was so. But some of us need more than show 'n tell. I needed a life lesson in living color.

When I think back to those days I remember, more so than what shook me to my core, who rocked my world: The individuals I met over there.

The demeanor these people exhibited day in day out in the face of adversity made an incredible and long lasting impression on me – how they helped our group help them; how they offered us the little they had to make us comfortable; how they prayed with such devotion – all the while with a spirit of contentment. In my eyes they had nothing and lacked everything, yet their living conditions were heartbreaking only to me. Because the existence of nothing and everything, as it turns out, is in the heart of the beholder – they were rich where it counts and they knew it…..and we felt it.

Once upon a time I set out to help some people who, in turn, helped me. Today, whenever I catch myself in fleeting moments of that princess-like behavior, mostly as I take something for granted, I think about the sights, sounds, and smells of the villages I lived in during those summers. And thanks to the infinite wisdom of our merciful God, who sent me there because He knew I was in much need of a few great lessons (lest I forget those courtesy of my sister's illness and death), there are enough of these incredible images engraved inside me to slap the foolish out of me and remind me of what counts.

Once upon a time I was a princess. I left a pampered city girl and returned dethroned carrying the sights, sounds, and smells of........ humility, faith and love. This is the stuff that keeps one real.

I have so many reasons for which to be thankful. So many. Mostly, I thank God for the individuals He has chosen for me throughout my life (some of whom I miss terribly), and the lessons they brought along with them.

Wishing all of you a wonderful journey of awareness leading up to Thanksgiving.

Much love. God bless.

“Thanksgiving is possible only for those who
take time to remember; no one can give thanks
who has a short memory.”
~ Unknown

Your love, Jesus, is an ocean
with no shore to bound it.
And if I plunge into it, I carry
with me all the possessions
I have. You know, Lord,
what these possessions are—
the souls you have seen
fit to link with mine.
~ St. Thérèse of Lisieux

With Change Comes Opportunity

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-11-01T13:45:04Z

The chalice, tabernacle, candles, and incense, will be the familiar view from the pew for us parishioners, but the wording of many of the prayers and hymns that we have recited and sung in Mass for decades will soon sound different.

Beginning November 26, the first weekend of Advent, Catholics will experience the new translation of the Roman Missal, the book that contains the ritual text for the celebration of the Mass. The revision of the Missal, called for by Pope John Paul II in 2000, is the most significant change in the Catholic Mass in 40 years.

This is a change that has many Catholics thinking “spiritual growth.” Most of the people I’ve spoken to about this transition feel, as I do, that after having gone through the motions of Mass week in week out for many years, monotony has set in, and so this is a great time to revamp this holy routine. With the new text comes the opportunity to deepen our understanding of the sacred liturgy, as we re-learn the words we’ve recited many times over; some of us since childhood.

According to the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, this third edition of the Missal which has been a decade in the making, “is a more literal and direct translation of the original Latin, containing, among other things, prayers for the celebration of recently canonized saints, additional prefaces for the Eucharistic Prayers, and updated translations of existing prayers, including some of the well-known responses and acclamations of the people.”

The new liturgical text includes changes starting with the greeting to the conclusion parts of the Mass. In the greeting part, for instance, when the priest says, “The Lord be with you,” the congregation now responds: “And also with you.” In the new translation, we will say: “And with your spirit.”

The most noticeable change is in The Nicene Creed. In this statement of faith the words “one in being with the Father” are being replaced with “consubstantial with the Father." Consubstan-what? I know, I know, I get stuck on this word too.

Of course, there are aids already available to guide us through the changes. Helpful resources can be found in the Welcoming the Roman Missal Third Edition section of the USCCB website, which lists and discusses the new text. Also, most churches will have “pew cards” outlining the new translation, along with the new Missal book.

And in case you’re wondering, yes, there’s an app for this. The app, appropriately called The New Mass, provides a different avenue other than printed material, especially for the younger crowd. A hipper way to learn the new words. Just don’t use it in church, please!

My friends, I invite you to check out the links above and familiarize yourselves with the new text before November 26. Let’s use this opportunity to disengage our auto-pilot and re-light our spiritual fire.

God bless.

Guest Post: Good Grief!

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-09-15T21:37:03Z

A guest post by my good friend Barbie Rodriguez --

Good grief! Halloween is not even close and they are already putting Christmas merchandise out, REALLY? True, stores need to make money and yatta, yatta, yatta, but come on, isn’t this just a little heavy-handed? Not to mention, it really takes the joy and specialness out of that most special season. By the time the holidays actually roll around, we’ve been hearing tinny versions of “I’m Dreaming of a White Christmas” and “Jingle Bells” way too long and you feel like drawing a bead on the next Rudolph that crosses your path. I know I am being idealistic here, but maybe, just maybe, if we concentrated on the MEANING of the season, instead of joining the present-hungry hordes who will engage in a VERY unladylike tug-of-war over a red plastic tablecloth because it’s on sale (yes, that is a TRUE story), it’d be a little nicer holiday all around? Bake cookies, feed the hungry, clothe the poor, by all means have an awesome Nochebuena capped off by Midnight Mass and then next day a big family gathering with lots of presents and a killer turkey dinner, but geez-o-pete, seeing Christmas stuff in September? Ugh! What’s next Easter Eggs right after New Year’s??? Just sayin’ …

Bittersweet Godinkidinks

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-09-12T16:12:34Z

Life is ironic I often say. And nothing like irony to set me straight. Because nothing happens by coincidence. It seems these bittersweet synchronicities that are peppered over my life are God's way of showing me what I need to see, even that which I rather not. Some times to set off a new set of circumstances and nudge me along when I'm getting too comfy; other times to reveal things which open my eyes and help me let go when I'm too caught up in my own illusions; and yes, I wouldn't doubt if at times even to test me to see if I can indeed practice what I preach. By many means, I tell you, He always shows me. Nothing happens by coincidence. His hand is in all of it. And what a blessing that is!

I thank God for the Unseen Hand, sometimes urging me onward, sometimes holding me back; sometimes with a caress of approval, sometimes with a stroke of reproof; sometimes correcting, sometimes comforting. My times are in his hand. – Vince Havner

God grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change;
Courage to change the things I can;
And wisdom to know the difference.
- Reinhold Niebuhr

In life as you want out of life...

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-09-08T16:20:42Z

‎If you appreciate honesty be sincere.
If you welcome attention give of your time.
If you grasp the meaning of value express gratitude.
If you want respect be considerate.
If you long for understanding be compassionate.
If you treasure loyalty be true.
If you hope for eternal life, follow Him.
In life, as you want out of life.
~ Me

Seriously???

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-08-31T18:58:11Z

Listen, I know Spaniards are known for their off-the-wall annual festivals, but this one takes the cake. I rather see them being chased by bulls than engaged in this kind of squandering activity. Does the word famine not mean anything to them? Seriously??

Read about it:
Tomatina Festival
Source: Photo Blog on msn.com

Sunday Warriors

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-08-29T21:45:42Z

I read recently that "...many believers are Sunday warriors and Monday whiners." That we talk a good talk on Sunday in church but that on Monday, when it's time to "walk the talk" we faint at the slightest test. So true. I'm glad I was reminded of this.

Note to self: Life's no picnic. Don't be afraid of the difficulties that arise. Remember that you can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.

No portion of this publication may be reproduced without prior written consent. Copyright © 2004-2011 Rx for the Soul / Connie Perez. All rights reserved.

Guest Post: The Feast

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-08-20T02:04:26Z

An inspiring guest post -- ~ by Candie Suarez ~

Once upon a time there was a King. The King was a good and kind, and generous King. The day came when the King was to give a feast for his son. The King planned a grand and fabulous feast in celebration of his Son. The King's servants were dispatched to call all of the people in the Kingdom to this Feast, to partake with the King in His banquet. The day came and all was prepared and the King awaited the people in joyful anticipation. The time for the feast arrived and the King waited at the door for all his people to come; but no one arrived to the Feast. The people were busy with work, school, vacations and just every day life in the Kingdom. The King was hurt, offended and very disappointed, and his displeasure soon turned to anger. Once the King became angry things began to go badly for the people in the kingdom.

Now imagine how we would feel if we planned a party, and we cleaned the house and prepared the food, and played music and planned a wonderful time to be shared in unity with those we love, our friends, our neighbors, our family...and the day came for the party --and no one showed up. This was the meaning of the message for me today. I have been feeling pretty down, situtations in my personal, professional and spiritual life have left me feeling hurt, disappointed and at times bitter even angry. These displeasures intensified my feelings of unworthiness in many things, but mostly in the partaking of the Feast the King prepares for me every week.

You see Friends, for over one year I have stayed away from mass. And while I stayed away, life kept coming my way....chock full of roses, some thornier than others; some days even with wrenches, just to keep it interesting; and every week an invitation went unanswered by me to go and partake in the Feast my King had prepared for me.

During a recent conversation with a friend as she listened to my tirade, she said simply you know what you have to do..We'd talked about it before; but I defused her persistence by acting a fool. What? I asked as if I didnt know, and made other stupid comments. But we both knew what she was talking about. In my human-ness, I rejected the idea of going there. Yet I knew that the King has been waiting....the feast prepared...and it was up to me to partake, or not.

For me personally, the mere fact that I have offended our King and rejected communion with his Son, has caused me so much sprirtual despair that I didnt know how to even get back there, and it was only through reconciliation with Him, that I am even to share this story with you my beloved friends and family.

The weight of my feelings started to lift when I stepped into a closet sized- room with two chairs, closed the door and sat down with a man I'd never met, dressed in black garment with a white collar and told him about how I had been feeling and that I had allowed my human-ness and anger and bitterness to keep me from showing up for the Feast that the King had prepared for me. The man admonished me, lovingly, but none the less. I was ashamed. However, as I walked out, I noticed that my heavy heart felt lighter. I walked to the front of the church in waitful readiness. This time I was the one in joyful anticipation for the King and His Feast.

As the priest read from the Gospel, Mathhew 22:1-14, the parable tells a similar story, except that in the parable, the King did infact enact his anger against the people and destroyed them. We are not there...yet.
I sat and contemplated the message that felt as if it had been waiting just for me; and as the priest read it he glanced my way a few times. Then the King opened the door to His heavenly Kingdom, and as I walked up to the Feast, He received me with such joy and love, I felt His arms embrace me and He lovingly led me to His table, where He once again introduced me to His Son, for whom the celebration was prepared and He said to me Come my child, I have waited for you, welcome home, your Feast is ready, partake, and be blessed.

As I drove home I felt today began a new day. My despair was turned to cheerfulness, my anger is now condonation, my hurt has been soothed, my disappointment replaced with gratification and fulfillment; my feelings of unworthiness have been replaced with feelings of appropriateness.

In the evening, I shared this story with two of my children, I started it out as I did in this writing, once upon a time there was a King..... We can always get our chidlren's attention when we tell them a story....except this story was not a fable as they learned when I got to the end. Both their eyes teared, as did mine. And so I decided to share it with you, all of you whom I love, that you may share it with those you love, and that you may be ever mindful, that our King has prepared for us a Feast, for all of us and that when we dont show up, He is hurt, He is disappointed, He is offended, and while He is ever patient and loving and forgiving, we could anger Him, and should that ever happen.....well, let's just say, the partaking of the Feast He has prepared for us will serve us far far better, than the hurt and offense we cause Him by not showing up and let's not even think about the anger He could ultimately unleash.

Those of you who have children returning to school on Monday, perhaps this Sunday, we could partake of the Feast He has prepared for us, that we may celebrate with the King, the Glory that is His Son, that you and your house too will be Blessed and that we will go in Peace, to love and serve our Lord; in gratitude for the Kingdom in which we live and the amazing banquet He has prepared for us all.

Have a wonderful weekend, with love.

(by Candie Suarez 8/18/11)

...no better hands.

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-07-19T14:54:57Z

Mid-July and a few of my friends are getting ready to ship out their kids to college very soon. One as early as this week - my best friend of thirty years, Esther, heads to Embry-Riddle tomorrow with my goddaughter. I know for a fact that she and most of these other friends feel very anxious about their kids leaving and I don't blame them one bit. I feel queasy about it myself and it's not even my kids flying the coop. Mine have chosen a University half an hour from our home. For now anyway. But it could've been me in my friends' shoes right now and I feel for them, because I know they are as close to their kids as I am to mine. I'm fresh back from a two-week vacation where every second of every day was spent within a breath of my children and I miss them terribly now that I'm back at work. And they live with me!!!

Nonetheless, although most of us don't like to see our kids go, we certainly don't want to hold them back. But whether moving out because of college or marriage or whatever, thankfully, and ironically enough, we have technology. Quite a few moons ago when I left home for college I remember my mom had to deal with her separation anxiety cold turkey. Now parents go digital and stay in touch with the kiddies via text, e-mail, BBM, Skype, Facetalk and whathaveyou as soon as they're out the door, if they choose to. A total techno-blessing if you can believe that. For us parents at least. I think it's a definite plus because, after all, communication is key. And I won't go here into the little things us parents miss when the kids venture out so as not to make this into a mushy read, but I will say that no matter what lessons we have instilled in our children about the importance of family and staying close, it is up to us parents to keep the communication going forward and the kids coming back. No, not to move back in, rather to keep us in each other's hearts. If cyberspace can help in this regard while our kids are away and ease those empty nest blues, more power to it.

Of course, technology can never, and should never, take the place of a hug or a real live conversation with our kids. The absence of such leaves a void hard to fill. And that's where our family and friends come in; to help us through this very poignant transition.

Even though my husband and I still have our kids living at home, already we feel inklings of empty-nest syndrome by virtue of their busy teenage life, and our friends and family do, and will, play an important role in our sanity. So parents, hang on to your socks and to those around you!

And do I even need to mention faith and God here? Suffice it to say, without our faith in God during this chapter of our lives we are...well, toast! So I'd like to ask you to join me in prayer for all the children starting college next month, especially for those moving away, and for their parents. My heart goes out to them. Our children are in God's hands. And truly there are no better hands.

[Dedicated to Esther: My sister, I love you; hang in there, God's got your back, and me.]

The greatest gifts you can give your children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence."
- Denis Waitly

Ready to Grow in Holiness?

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-05-20T13:04:21Z

I know, big title. Don't be afraid though. Read on. We think "holiness" is synonymous with perfection, and when we read or hear the word we can't help but feel discouraged, understandably so. Immediately we think that being holy involves much Christian activity, weekly attendance to mass, praying many rosaries, etc. etc. At least that's what I thought for a long time, but the more I live, the more I learn, because it's about much more than that. Evidently, it is a matter of having our heart transformed into a heart of love.

A few days ago I came across a particular quote for the second time in my life which strikes a chord only now. First time was a few years ago when a close friend sent it to me. Goes to show sometimes you're not ready until God says you're ready. For me these words are the roadmap to holiness. I share them here in case God thinks you are ready:

"One of the important ways of growing in holiness is looking to see whom God has placed us in relationship with to love, and then loving them as Christ loves us. The road to holiness leads us to serve our families, our friends, our relatives, our neighbors, our coworkers - the people God put us with in our daily lives.

As we grow in holiness, we will be less likely to take offense and more likely to be the one who bridges the gap when there is tension and pressure in relationships. We will be less likely to fall into dissension and rivalry. We will be more able to hang in there, loving when things get difficult. We become more capable of being...the one who forgives again and again. We become more able to love even when we are not being loved in return, to give even when we are not receiving anything back. We become more capable of acting out of compassion when we notice opportunities for doing good that are not strictly our responsibility."
- Ralph Martin

I believe we are all called to holiness, we just think of it as impossible to attain so we don't bother with the challenge. After all, perfection is inconceivable if left to our own resources, don't you agree? But don't we know that with God all things are possible? Especially our transformation. May well just be that the secret to holiness begins with looking at the people God puts in our lives and throwing their way some real love. What a concept! Ready to grow in holiness?

And I know that if I do this...

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-05-12T18:38:00Z

Beloved Creator... I have no idea where I am going.
I do not see the road ahead of me.
I cannot know for certain where it will end.
Nor do I really know myself,
and the fact that I think I am following your will
does not mean that I am actually doing so.
But I believe that the desire to please you
does in fact please you.
And I hope I have that desire in all that I am doing.
I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire.
And I know that if I do this you will lead me
by the right road though I may know nothing about it.
Therefore I will trust you always
though I may seem to be lost
and in the shadow of death.
I will not fear, for you are ever with me,
and you will never leave me to face my perils alone.

- Thomas Merton

Life Rhythms

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-05-09T14:49:00Z

As I pressed my ear to my son's chest I was momentarily taken back to that magical day when I heard his heartbeat for the first time. That surreal moment when I realized life was inside me, once again. I will never forget that.

Yesterday morning my son came to my bed, kissed me, and wished me a happy Mother's Day. I was barely awake at the time. A bit later, as I sat up in bed lost in my own thoughts, or lack thereof (typical morning scene for me), he came back, stood by the bed and hugged me for a little while. My head rested on his chest so that all I could hear was his heartbeat. That magical day's distinctive rapid ultrasonic whooshings announcing "I am here," now clear, slower, somewhat matured beats. I was listening to life. One of two lives God used me to bring into this world. The sudden overwhelming sense of gratitude I felt for God's grace is indescribable...words elude me.

All I can say is that I fell into that moment and lost myself in it. It's happened before. A mother's music to her soul, those life rhythms. Never gets old.

I hope all you Moms had a grace-filled Mother's Day.

Children and mothers never truly part -

Bound in the beating of each other's heart.

- Charlotte Gray

Before you were conceived
I wanted you
Before you were born
I loved you
Before you were here an hour
I would give my life for you
This is the miracle of life.
~ Maureen Hawkins

O me of little Trust!

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-04-12T16:17:00Z

"It is easy to call Him best friend when things are fine and dandy," I recently told a friend who's going through a rough time. I know this, I speak from experience. I mean, He showers me with His blessings and life is great. Couldn't be better. I feel safe and comforted day after day after day. It gets to where I wonder if I even need to pray that much. Because God is good; my bff — Then wham! — The proverbial stormy weather rolls in -- as it will and does -- lasting days, a week or two, or longer. I start to feel a bit abandoned, and my praying increases, but to no avail it seems, and incertitude sets in and I get all doubting-Thomas-like, antsy about my bff's whereabouts, leaving the door wide open for the Tyrant. Because by now I'm vulnerable and my spirit's quite conquerable. All the while my Lord's smiling and shaking His head at me: "Lighten up girl you know better!" Do I?

My friend wonders how many trials one must go through before breaking this pattern of infidelity. I know for me, it appears, as many as it takes for my fearful self to learn to Trust. Full and devoted Trust in God with a capital T. The kind that reassures me that even though I don't know the why of something, I will deal with the adversity in everything, and see the lessons in gratitude, perspective, and strength in all of it.

"We're all God's work in progress, and thankfully He doesn't give up on us, ever," I told my friend, "we are the ones who give up on Him." Really, more often than I'd like I find that I'm the one shaking my head at myself saying, "O me of little Trust!" It is precisely then, I know, that I must humbly take a knee and utter those telling words: "God, I trust in You." I do know better.

He's got my back. And yours. Believe it.

"It is not to be imagined that the God who
has been so faithful to me in the last six
trials I've gone through, will now abandon
me here on the seventh."
- C. Spurgeon

"Why are you afraid, O you of little faith?"
- Matthew 8:26

A Blogger's Prayer

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-04-06T18:35:00Z

I am no longer my own blogger, but Thine, O Lord.

Refine me with each post how You will, rank me how You will.

Put me to service, or put me to suffering.

Let me post for Thee or be put aside for Thee,

Lifted high, only for Thee, or brought low, all for Thee.

Do with me and each post whatever you will, because You alone know best.

Let me not strive but submit Let me not compete but care

Let me not desire hits but holiness

Let me be a follower, instead of seeking followers.

Let my blog be full of Thee, and let it be empty of me.

Let me crave all things of Thee, let me care nothing of this world.

Let my words be worthy of the greatest of audiences: You.

And You are enough.

May I write not for subscribers… but only for Thy smile.

May my daily affirmation be in the surety of my atonement,

not the size of my audience.

May my identity be in the innumerable graces of Christ,

never, God forbid, the numbers of my comments.

May the only words that matter in my life not be the ones I write on a screen ---

but the ones I live with my skin.

I freely and heartily yield every sentence, every title, every post, every comment… or no
comments… all to Thine pleasure and perfect will.

My only fame is that I bear Your name

My only glory is the gift of Your Grace

My only readership, Your eyes that seek to and fro to find a heart hard after You.

Make this so, oh Lord…

Yahweh, You alone are my God, not Google

Jesus, You alone are my Savior, not site meters

And Holy Spirit, You alone are my Comforter, not comments

So be it, today, yesterday, and every post to come.

This is my prayer I have made on earth and over this keyboard… let it be ratified in heaven.

Amen.

- Ann Voskamp

Just A Game You Say?

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-03-30T15:41:00Z

Hey Dad, can you feel it? First pitch, organ playing, 7th-inning stretch, warm weather. [Sniff, sniff...] I smell baseball in the air. Opening Day is tomorrow!

Okay so I'm a fan. Those of you who aren't, it's fine, I forgive you. Yes, I know, the sport has had its share of negative publicity and more, and like most people, that hasn't sat well with me at all. But I can't help it. It runs through my veins like my father's blood runs through my veins. He taught me the game way back in the day. I remember those days when sometimes just as I'd had about all the pretend doll playing a girl could stand, he'd come up and say: "Dale, corre, busca el guante." "Go, run, get your glove." How I loved that tantalizing escape outdoors to realness. As a kid, I got to know the best of both worlds. I've always been so thankful for that. Through the years my Dad and I played catch, went to games, watched them on TV, and talked stats. Sure, maybe not your typical father-daughter relationship. It was better. It was lovely. I so miss that.

        No other time of year brings those memories to life more than baseball season. And no other flick connects both for me like "Field of Dreams." You know, that movie where Ray Kinsella (played by Kevin Costner) ends up helping some baseball ghosts once banned from the game find peace on a baseball field in Iowa. Have you seen it? There's a lot more to the story than that, and it's one of the most spiritual and hope-filled movies I've ever seen. I highly recommend you watch it. Its ending still packs an unexpected kick even after countless viewings. It touches my heart like no other. Check out the clip. In this last scene, Costner encounters his father-ghost and they have that classic exchange about heaven you've probably heard before even if you haven't watched the movie:


             A Catch With Dad by movieclips

                John Kinsella: Is this heaven?

Ray Kinsella: It's Iowa.

John: I could have sworn it was heaven.

Ray: Is there a heaven?

John: Oh, yeah. It's the place where dreams come true.

Ray: Maybe this is heaven.

Costner's realization at that moment of what his heaven on earth is -- his family, his home -- is a poignant reminder of what is truly important, and is a mirror imagine of my heaven on earth. Just a baseball movie? Think again.

My catch-playing days with Dad were once part of my heaven on earth. And as I look back, I realize my relationship with Dad would've been just as special without the game. Baseball was a bonus. And I am ever so grateful. I look forward to that day when the two of us hook up to play catch once again. That would be a dream come true. Just a game you say? Not for me.

"Earth's crammed with heaven,
And every common bush afire with God:
But only he who sees takes off his shoes."
- Elizabeth B. Browing

Fasting: Hardly a food thing.

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-03-25T13:33:00Z

I hope all of you are having a blessed Lenten season so far. I came across this writing from St. John Chrysostom which put fasting in a whole new light for me.

"Do you fast? Give me proof of it by your works.
If you see a poor man, take pity on him.
If you see a friend being honored, do not envy him.

Do not let only your mouth fast,
but also the eye and the ear and the feet and the hands
and all the members of our bodies.

Let the hands fast, by being free of avarice.
Let the feet fast, by ceasing to run after sin.
Let the eyes fast, by disciplining them not to glare at that which is
sinful.

Let the ear fast, by not listening to evil talk and gossip.
Let the mouth fast from foul words and unjust criticism.

For what good is it if we abstain from birds and fishes, but bite and
devour our brothers?

May He who came to the world to save sinners, strengthen us to
complete the fast with humility! Have mercy on us and save us."

- St. John Chrysostom

Guest Post: On Faith and Change

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-03-15T19:06:00Z

A guest post by my good friend Barbie Rodriguez --

“Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.”
Hebrews 11:1

Like a very dear friend, I hate change. This stems from all the changes my family went through when I was a child. Leaving Cuba, going to Mexico, then Panama (where we spent a few hellish months). Flying to Miami, Florida and on to Los Angeles, California. A few years later, back to Miami, Florida, when my Dad’s parents arrived from Cuba. A few months after moving to Miami, my Abuelo (my Mom’s dad) became ill and passed away. My Mom’s parents always lived with us. They raised me as much as my parents did. We truly were a family unit, the five of us, my parents, my grandparents and me. We were, for lack of a better term, a whole. After Abuelo’s death, we weren’t so whole anymore. I know now, of course, that it is part of life, losing loved ones. But still, I really detest change.

Through all the changes we went through, one thing was always clear. Their faith. I really believe it was what got them through. It can’t have been easy for them, leaving their country, their way of life, everything familiar, to start anew in a country with a different language, customs. No matter where we were, however, there were some rock solid constants. Abuela prayed the rosary first thing in the morning and last thing at night. Abuelo always walked me to and from school. Dad made pancakes for breakfast Saturdays. Mom always burned the bread on Nochebuena (the roast pork, though, was always perfect). Midnight Mass was not to be missed. And Sunday mornings, rain or shine, it was off to church, the five of us.

A lot has changed through the years. Abuela passed away a few years after Abuelo. Then my Mom and Dad. I found myself making a new life without them. I am grateful for our time together. I was blessed to have them. I was and am blessed to have truly dear friends. I found a job where I was very happy. A little apartment I deemed my cocoon. I was content. And now change. Again. My job, where I have always been quite happy (and how many people can truly say that) is ending. The company has been in trouble for a while. I find myself sending out resumes and going on interviews I really don’t want to go on. Maybe it is God’s way of telling me I had gotten too comfortable, I don’t know. Every night I get home and thank the Father for getting me through another day. I ask Him to please keep all my friends and me gainfully employed. I ask Him to continue holding all of us in the shelter of His loving arms. I know that, much as I detest change, it is inevitable. I know that just like my grandparents and parents, my faith will see me through.

Marked By Ashes

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-03-08T17:10:00Z

Hard to believe I'm on the eve of another Ash Wednesday when it seems just the other day I was ringing in 2011. Time's flying! And here I am again anticipating one of my favorite days of the year. Tomorrow morning during Mass I'll receive the sacred ashes that for me mark the time to revamp my faith and my life in general. This time, more than any other, makes clear to me how much I need to lighten my soul and how much some parts of my life need changing. It takes some slowing down and listening to the cries of my imperfect inner spirit, but if I give myself to it, I know this can be a season of grace for me. It can give me the boost I need to get through the months ahead with hope and determination. And so I'm ready. Ready and eager to go through the motions of Lent.

As called for, I plan on giving up something and/or taking something on, and on praying more than usual. I expect that there will be some fasting involved too, as well as the seeking and giving of forgiveness. But more importantly, I use this time to consider and measure some aspects of my life -- family, work, politics, values, and desires -- against the model set forth by my Savior. Ay, that right there is an eye opener, can I tell you? This process typically leaves me brow-raised and saying, "Ugh! And I thought I was doing so well!" Uh huh. In the past I've felt frustrated when my efforts have fallen short and I've failed in this regard, because it's difficult to maintain such level of goodness. So I try to make myself feel better by remembering that God doesn't expect perfection from me, He just plants the thought, throws the bait, and hopes I bite. Lent is a time for me to try again, thank goodness. I hope it is for you as well.

Tomorrow, ashes will mark many of us, either all day long or just for a little while. That's a very personal choice. For me, those ashes will mark not only my forehead, but also my heart, and remind me of my mortality and need for deeper conversion. That, my friends, doesn't happen every day. This cross of ashes is enlightening, and its effects on me intoxicating. How it brings me to my knees as the sinner that I am, and raises me up at the thought of His forgiveness, all in the same breath. So I will wear that smudge faithfully...and humbly. Yes, strange looks, comments, questions, and all: "You have dirt on your forehead, oh no, wait, are those ashes? Is it Ash Wednesday?" No matter, I'll wear them not out of ritual or to show off, but because I crave their message, what they say to me when I look in the mirror or feel them crinkling on my skin: "Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return." And because this sacramental, to me, is like a drug; just the perfect dose I need to start me off and keep me going.

Yes, I want to be marked by those ashes. That mark that will remind me, and tell others: This is me. This is me on Christ. Any questions?

A blessed Lent to all of you. +

Get ready...

ccp@thesoulsentinel.com (Connie Perez) — 2011-03-07T17:38:00Z

Okay so tomorrow is Fat Tuesday and you know what that means. Indulging in all the chocolate, cussing and badgering you wish in the hopes of getting it out of your system just in time for Wednesday. Seriously? So Lent's almost here. I thought I'd toss around a few ideas on stuff to give up, in case that's the sort of thing you consider doing during this time:

- TV (or at least Glee)

- Alcohol (the kind you drink, duh!)

- Road rage

- Cursing (without it, road rage's no fun)

- Chocolate

- Gossip (unlike chocolate, it's not good for your health)

- Social networking (after 40 days you may end up realizing how much you can slash
that Friends list)

- Texting (will re-acquaint you with your friends' voices in case you've forgotten what
they sound like)

- Complaining (about Lent especially)

Good luck. And no, I won't list any of the things we can take on during Lent. We know what those are, don't we? Get ready.