Swine Flu Symptoms

Difference between Cold and Swine Flu Symptoms

Symptom	Cold	Swine Flu
Fever	Fever is rare with a cold.	Fever is usually present with the flu in up to 80% of all flu cases. A temperature of 100°F or higher for 3 to 4 days is associated with the flu.
Coughing	A hacking, productive (mucus- producing) cough is often present with a cold.	A non-productive (non-mucus producing) cough is usually present with the flu (sometimes referred to as dry cough).
Aches	Slight body aches and pains can be part of a cold.	Severe aches and pains are common with the flu.
Stuffy Nose	Stuffy nose is commonly present with a cold and typically resolves spontaneously within a week.	Stuffy nose is not commonly present with the flu.
Chills	Chills are uncommon with a cold.	60% of people who have the flu experience chills.
Tiredness	Tiredness is fairly mild with a cold.	Tiredness is moderate to severe with the flu.
Sneezing	Sneezing is commonly present with a cold.	Sneezing is not common with the flu.
Sudden Symptoms	Cold symptoms tend to develop over a few days.	The flu has a rapid onset within 3-6 hours. The flu hits hard and includes sudden symptoms like high fever, aches and pains.
Headache	A headache is fairly uncommon with a cold.	A headache is very common with the flu, present in 80% of flu cases.
Sore Throat	Sore throat is commonly present with a cold.	Sore throat is not commonly present with the flu.
Chest Discomfort	Chest discomfort is mild to moderate with a cold.	Chest discomfort is often severe with the flu.

RECOGNIZE SWINE FLU SYMPTOMS! DEFEND YOURSELF
High Risk Groups
·        Children below 5 years  
·        Senior persons above 65 years
·        HIV infected persons
·        Diabetic patients
·        Pregnant Women
·        Lung & Heart patients
·        Obese persons
Warning signs for children
*        Troubled or abnormal breathing
*        Bluish skin color
*        Lessened intake of water/fluids
*       Extended sleep or lack of interaction
*        Irritable
*        Fever with rash
*        Flu-like symptoms recede, but return with fever and worsened cough
Warning signs for adults
·        Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath
·        Pain/pressure in chest/abdomen
·        Sudden dizziness
·        Confusion
·        Severe or persistent vomiting
*       Seasonal flu vaccines or past immunizations DO NOT provide protection against the H1N1 virus
*   Please visit a qualified physician if you suspect Swine Flu symptoms. Avoid self-treatment
* Persons infected with the H1N1 virus may be able to pass it on 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 7 days after infection
. TAKE CARE FRIENDS .

The First Food and Drink on the Moon

The Apollo 11 crew had a variety of foods that were nutritious if not delicious. Much of it was freeze-dried in pouches, so astronauts had to squirt water into the bags and squish the contents around to prepare the food. There was no hot water aboard the Lunar Module, so the moonwalkers were stuck with cold meals and snacks for a day.
But the first things a man ate and drank on the moon were a Communion wafer and a thimbleful of wine.

Buzz Aldrin was a Presbyterian church elder at the time. The pastor of Webster Presbyterian in suburban Houston near the Johnson Space Center gave him a home Communion kit to take to the moon. It contained the wafer, a tiny vial of wine and a thumb-sized silver chalice.
NASA had urged Aldrin not to celebrate the sacrament publicly. Atheist activist Madelyn Murray O'Hare had already filed suit because the Apollo 8 crew read from the Book of Genesis for all the world to hear as they orbited the moon on Christmas Eve the year before.
So instead, Aldrin got on the radio shortly after the moon landing and asked everyone listening to observe 'a few moments of silence' to think about what had just happened and to give thanks in their own way.
Aldrin's way was to turn off the microphone and administer Communion to himself. Armstrong watched silently as Aldrin poured the wine, read a few lines of scripture from a card, then ate the wafer and drank from the tiny cup.
It was years before Aldrin told anyone about his Communion on the moon. He doesn't attend church anymore. Wine is no longer on his menu. Aldrin has been outspoken recently about his battle with alcoholism and his 30 years of sobriety.
'My Sunday mornings are spent in a recovery meeting in Pacific Palisades,' he told the New York Times.
Aldrin brought the little chalice back from the moon and returned it to Webster Presbyterian Church, which has it locked in a safe-deposit box. The church uses a replica of the chalice every year in a service marking the anniversary of the first moon landing.

A story passed to me on the internet. A very important distinction is that this is not the true presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. Still an interesting story of the role God played in the astronaut's lives

Who can this be?

Who can this be? Who can this be? that the sea and the wind obey him?

My wife Jennie likes thunderstorms. The raw power of God's creation is so awesomely displayed that she delights in them. I like the smell of the world after a storm.
My 8 year old enjoys the rainbow after the storm, most likely for the beautiful brilliant colors. I am always reminded of God's promise that He will not touch us with anything like the flood of Noah's day.

Near the top of my blog I keep a quote: Lord I shall be very busy today... I may forget thee, please don't forget me.

God keeps nature in line, and the storms come to allow us to experience "after the storm". I sometimes forget that the storm is also gift, a gift that God invites us to embrace and make our own.

I pray today for all my brothers and sisters in whatever storm they stand in, that God will give us the strength to see it through, but if it is Gods will that we have to stand in it, may He be our umbrella, freeing us to obey Him and to act, as always, in love.

Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us and lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory now and forever. Amen.

English as a Human Language

You think English is easy???

1) The bandage was wound around the wound.

2) The farm was used to produce produce.

3) The dump was so full that it had to refuse more refuse.

4) We must polish the Polish furniture.

5) He could lead if he would get the lead out.

6) The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert.

7) Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present .

8) A bass was painted on the head of the bass drum.

9) When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes.

10) I did not object to the object.

11) The insurance was invalid for the invalid.

12) There was a row among the oarsmen about how to row.

13) They were too close to the door to close it.

14) The buck does funny things when the does are present.

15) A seamstress and a sewer fell down into a sewer line.

16) To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to sow.

17) The wind was too strong to wind the sail.

18) Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear.

19) I had to subject the subject to a series of tests.

20) How can I intimate this to my most intimate friend?

Let's face it - English is a crazy language. Are English speakers verbally insane?
There is no egg in eggplant, nor ham in hamburger; neither apple nor pine in pineapple.
English muffins weren't invented in England or French fries in France.
Sweetmeats are candies while sweetbreads, which aren't sweet, are meat.

We take English for granted. But if we explore its paradoxes, we find
that quicksand can work slowly, boxing rings are square and a guinea
pig is neither from Guinea nor is it a pig.

And why is it that writers write but fingers don't fing, grocers don't
groce and hammers don't ham? If the plural of tooth is teeth, why isn't
the plural of booth, beeth? One goose, 2 geese. So one moose, 2 meese?
One index, 2 indices? Doesn't it seem crazy that you can make amends
but not one amend? If you have a bunch of odds and ends and
get rid of all but one of them, what do you call it?

If teachers taught, why didn't preachers praught? If a vegetarian eats vegetables,
what does a humanitarian eat?

In what language do people recite at a play and play at a recital?
Ship by truck and send cargo by ship? Have noses that run and feet that smell?

How can a slim chance and a fat chance be the same, while a
wise man and a wise guy are opposites? You have to marvel at the unique lunacy
of a language in which your house can burn up as it burns down, in which you fill in
a form by filling it out and in which, an alarm goes off by going on.

English was invented by people, not computers, and it reflects the
creativity of the human race, which, of course, is not a race at all.
That is why, when the stars are out, they are visible, but when the
lights are out, they are invisible.

PS. - Why doesn't 'Buick' rhyme with 'quick' ?

A Prayer for Discernment.

Lord God, by the words of St. Francis lead me where you will Today!

"Most High, Glorious God, enlighten the darkness of my heart and give me true faith, certain hope, and perfect charity, sense and knowledge, Lord that I may carry out
Your holy and true command. Amen."

Draw near Oh Lord....

Oh Lord,
Hear our prayer as we turn our hearts to you.
Take our world, our nation, our family and ourselves
And draw us ever the closer to you.

When we turn away, allow us to hear your voice calling us back.
When we ignore you, show us your truth and open our hearts to you.
When we forget you, do not forget us and gently remind us of your love.

Come close to us Lord, and give us the courage and strength to change our lives
So that we can forever sing with all creation
Of your mighty deeds.

Pro-Life Conversion Prayer to Saint Paul

Conversion Prayer to Saint Paul

Blessed Apostle Paul, who labored so zealously for the conversion of the Gentiles in many lands, obtain for us a perpetual zeal for the salvation of souls and especially enkindle our interest in the conversion of our separated brethren. Ever mindful of the interest that our Divine Lord, the Good Shepherd, has for the other sheep not of His fold, I now beg your intercession and obtain for me the gift of the true faith for Barack Obama and all the supporters of abortion and any other policy that forsakes the sanctity of life.

May God grant this request so close to my heart and thus enable me to extend to another what I so richly enjoy, through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Pray with Our Holy Father

Jesus Help Me

Jesus Help Me

In every need let me come to Thee with humble trust, saying,
Jesus, help me!

In all my doubts, perplexities, and temptations,
Jesus, help me!

In hours of loneliness, weariness and trials,
Jesus, help me!

In the failure of my plans and hopes; in disappointments, troubles and sorrows,
Jesus, help me!

When my heart is cast down by failure, at seeing no good come from my efforts,
Jesus, help me!

When others fail me, and Thy grace alone can assist me,
Jesus, help me!

When I throw myself on Thy tender love as Father and Savior,
Jesus, help me!

When I feel impatient, and my cross irritates me,
Jesus, help me!

When sickness and loneliness overcome me,
Jesus, help me!

Always, in weakness, falls and shortcomings of every kind,
Jesus, help me and never forsake me.

Thanks to http://www.cukierski.net/index.shtml

Prayer For Employment

God, our Father, I turn to you seeking your divine help and guidance as I look for suitable employment. I need your wisdom to guide my footsteps along the right path, and to lead me to find the proper things to say and do in this quest. I wish to use the gifts and talents you have given me, but I need the opportunity to do so with gainful employment. Do not abandon me, dear Father, in this search, but rather grant me this favor I seek so that I may return to you with praise and thanksgiving for your gracious assistance. Grant this through Christ, our Lord.

Amen

Red Letter Day......

Get a red envelope. You can buy them at Kinkos, or at party supply stores. On the front, address it to

President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
Washington, DC 20500-0001

On the back, write the following message.

This envelope represents one child who died in abortion.
It is empty because that life was unable to offer anything to the world.
Responsibility begins with conception.

Put it in the mail, and send it. Then forward this email to every one of your friends who you think would send one too. I wish we could send 50 million red envelopes, one for every child who died before having a a chance to live. Maybe it will change the heart of the president.

MISSING- Update:Found :(

MISSING!



FRISKY

Missing on or around 10/15/08 in the Canaan Court area.
He is a grey tabby (long hair)brown eyes
He is approximately 3 yrs old.
He does respond to his name and is a very friendly cat.
If you've seen him please call Jennie at 243-3373
or Paul at 685-0544

On February 3, 2009, We found Friskie in the middle of the road less than a quarter mile from our house. Thanks to all who searched, prayed and hoped for his safe return. Although it was a horrible end, I know that any pain or suffering is over.

I found a poem which reflects aspect of heaven (which I define as living in the full presence of God and his many gifts, outside of temptation and sin)
http://www.petloss.com/poems/maingrp/rainbowb.htm

May all creation forever praise the living God!

A prayer for Life for focus in the coming week

A prayer for Life for focus in the coming week.

Daily Prayer to End Abortion

Lord God,
I thank you today for the gift of my life,
And for the lives of all my brothers and sisters.
I know there is nothing
that destroys more life than abortion,
Yet I rejoice that you have conquered death
by the Resurrection of Your Son.
I am ready to do my part in ending abortion.
Today I commit myself
never to be silent,
never to be passive,
never to be forgetful of the unborn.
I commit myself
to be active in the pro-life movement,
and never to stop defending life
until all my brothers and sisters are protected,
and our nation once again becomes
a nation with liberty and justice
not just for some, but for all.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

From Priests for Life

Kutless Giveaway

free Kutless MP3 is being given away at Bible Study Magazine. They are also having a contest to win cool Kutless gear and Logos Bible Software. Go check it out!

Please Pray for Zimbabwe from Anne Seggerman - paul.kravitz@gmail.com

Please forward this to as many people as you can.

St. Martin de Porres Guild *

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

A beautiful Christmas greeting, sent to me by a dear friend, from Jesus, who said that in essence with the crass materialism of the Christmas season, He was not being invited to His own birthday party. Mother Theresa of Calcutta said that when she was taking care of the poor, hungry, neglected, mistreated; the poor of the streets of Calcutta, that she was taking care of Jesus.

Many of us are faithful sisters and brothers of St. Francis and so we have been exhorted to take care of these multitudes increasing at an alarming rate and now, particularly, with the unspeakable horrors of the genocide taking place in Zimbabwe.

It has been said that in these days, sometimes referred to as the Latter Days, satan has been set loose, for he knows his time is short. It has also been remarked that many of the people who are now found in positions of leadership have been taken over by satan himself or by one of his evil spirits. No one fills that description better than avowed communist Robert Mugabe, who for 28 years has inflicted the tortures of hell on his own people, now along with mass starvation culminating in a deadly epidemic of cholera killing hundreds a day.

In Medjugorje, we have been told that for some difficult situations prayer alone does not suffice, but prayer accompanied by fasting is required to be rid of grave evil.

Along with St. Martin de Porres, and all the saints in heaven, I plead with you, my sisters and brothers in Christ, to pray every day and fast however and whenever you can for the poor, sick and starving millions of victims in what was once the bread basket of Africa, a place once called Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe, and that the Lord God Almighty might rescue these people from the terrible scourge of the evil Mr. Mugabe.

Together, our prayers and fasting directed to the salvation of these people and of their nation can become the greatest birthday present we could offer to Our Savior on His birthday!

Anne C. Seggerman SFO DM

NOVENA TO SAINT MARTIN DE PORRES

For 9 days in a row, say:

Saint Martin de Porres,

your concern and charity embraced

not only your needy brethren,

but also the animals of the field.

You are a splendid example of charity;

we thank and praise you.

From above,

hear the requests of your needy brethren.

(Mention your request here...)

By modeling our lives after yours,

and imitating your virtues,

may we live content knowing that

God has looked favorably upon us.

Because this is so,

we can accept our burdens

with strength and courage

in order to follow

in the footsteps of our Lord

and the Blessed Mother.

May we reach the Kingdom of Heaven

through the intercession of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Amen.

A traditional Catholic fast, as recommended by the seers of Medjugorje, is on Wednesday or Friday or both days. During fast days a single simple meal is allowed after sundown so that one goes without food for 24 hours from the last evening meal to the meal the following evening closing the fast. Only water and plain bread if necessary is permitted during a fast. Only those persons considered well enough should fast. Check with your doctor before embarking on a fast.

* a committee of the Fourth World Foundation Inc.

Human Rights Day

A Call to All Franciscans to . . .
A Day of Prayer and Fasting
On Wednesday, 10 December 2008
World Human Rights Day
To Commemorate the 60th Anniversary
of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
To Be in Solidarity with Our Sisters and Brothers . . .
. . . In the DR Congo; Palestine / Israel; India
and Wherever People Are Suffering Violence
Let us use
“The Peace Prayer of Saint Francis” and/or
“The Canticle of Creatures”
to unite our voices in a cry for world peace
with universal justice and respect
for all of God’s creatures.

Prayers to the unborn Lord Jesus

Think about Jesus, as an unborn child within the circumstances that God placed him within our story of redemption. Thank you Lord for coming to us and being with us.


Lord, thank You for first coming among us as the Unborn Christ Child. Today, untold numbers of our tiny sisters and brothers have been abandoned by the world’s leaders, by the traditional defenders of justice, by the healing professions and even by their own parents. But You are their Savior—You have not forgotten them. Savior, rescue and protect these little ones from the neglect and violence of an uncaring world.

Merciful Lord, Your tiny infant heart, which was later emptied on the cross, offers this world its only hope. Forgive us our sins against the unborn, against their parents and against all Your children. Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, have mercy on us. Lord, have mercy on us.

Prince of Peace, through Your healing Spirit, help us to lovingly accept every conceived child created in Your image and likeness, as a messenger of peace and goodwill towards all people. Amen.

Taken from : The Unborn Word Alliance

Getting Into Advent

A nice meditation to start Advent:

Advent Conspiracy

I have set the framework for Christmas this year.
It shall be a Holy Day like NONE OTHER.

Jesus is coming.

He has shown us the way.

We are blessed if we look upon it.

Join the conspiracy, look down the path. And know that the gift is here.

With us.

Every Day.

Waiting to be unwrapped. Waiting to be taken. Waiting to be given.

A day like none other is coming soon. Will you be ready?

http://www.adventconspiracy.org

A thought from St. Therese

St. Therese: 'Why should we defend ourselves when we are misunderstood and misjudged? Let us leave that aside. Let us not say anything. It is so sweet to let others judge us in any way they like. O blessed silence, which gives so much peace to the soul!'"

This theme reminds me of many of the Saints who faced persecution of all sorts. If we apply this to how faith is looked at in the country, and actively persecuted in other parts of the world, we should consider ourselves blessed to be called to bring the gospel to the marketplace.

Our joy goes far beyond what is visible in this world, for where is the Love of Christ in this world- it can not be seen in countries or buildings or programs or even prayers and devotions, but in the hearts of the followers of Christ.

So live your life as you are called to, for in the understanding and judgment of the Lord all will be brought to light, and for those who live in the light, darkness can no longer be.

Thnaks to Wendy and company for the quote.

Franciscan thought of the day 10/24/08

Keep on truckin', fellow travellers:

"'Let my Gospel be your Rule, and My life be your life, My cross your repose, My charity your life, My death your hope and resurrection, Let the reproaches, blasphemies, and mockery against Me be your honors, blessings, and commendations; let your life, joy, and glory be to endure death and torments for Me; let your portion and riches be to wish to have nothing under heaven; let your distinction, consolation, and triumph be to be humbled beneath all and to rejoice to be afflicted and vilified on account of My name.' (Angelo Clareno, The Book of Chronicles [Prologue, Christ Instructs Francis])"

Our True Face

Ghandi said:

I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ.

It seems to me that Christ still suffers today.

If we have the spirit of Christ within us, and everyone who accepts Christ and eats his flesh and drinks his blood, Then the anonymous face on the street is not so anonymous. We will have to answer to the king when he asks us of we fed the hungry clothed the naked and all the meriful acts he REQUIRES of us as followers.

Anything less is lip service and brown nosing.

If the Christian (myself included) does not live up to this, yet insures that SELF is fed, SELF is clothed and we do not concern with the person next store or the person holding their hand out on the street, then we deny Christ. If we see Christ in ourselves but cannot see Christ in the Other, then we are missing the Christ He wants us to see.

No matter how hard we try, we cannot see our true face:
In a mirror, the image is reversed.
In a photo we are captured in a monment.
Though a video, we see what the lens (or person behind the lens) can see.

Yet a stranger walking the street would see our glance.
Our spouses can see the look of the emotion of the moment.
Nature can observe the joy.

Discipleship has a price....

PLEASE PRAY FOR CHRISTIANS IN INDIA
Christian Persecution India

From: persecution, 2 weeks ago

Christian Persecution India

View SlideShare presentation or Upload your own. (tags: india persecution)

Christan persecution India


SlideShare Link

A Call For Convention

Today, the Connecticut Supreme Courts approved "Same-Sex" Marriages as being legal. I am not surprised that Connecticut would do this, but I am saddened, and I hold up this state to Almighty God to continue showing His mercy towards us.

It seems we have turned our face away from him- again.

At first, I was not in favor of the vote to invoke a constitutional convention, which I saw as a waste of taxpayers money and pretty much a waste of time.

But Times (and opinions) change. I join the bishops of the state in calling for votes to support a convention.
I encourage you to do the same.

Perhaps this state can return to morals that are consistent to the Gospels, with a lot of prayer and a lot of votes.

Here is what the CCC had to say:

Connecticut Catholic Conference calls for Constitutional Convention

Vatican Official Simplifies Voting Guidlelines for American Catholics | Agnus Daily

Here is a simple explaination of why I support John McCain.

Vatican Official Simplifies Voting Guidlelines for American Catholics | Agnus Daily

If you support the respect of all human life, you will support him as well!

A Message to Obama

Meditate on this and vote Pro Life.

SFO Mom: A Message to Obama

Thanks SFO Mom

An Election Day Prayer - Mary stand with us

An Election Prayer to Mary

O most Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Mercy, at this most critical time, we entrust the United States of America to your loving care. Most Holy Mother, we beg you to reclaim this land for the glory of your Son. Overwhelmed with the burden of the sins of our nation, we cry to you from the depths of our hearts and seek refuge in your motherly protection. Look down with mercy upon us and touch the hearts of our people. Open our minds to the great worth of human life and to the responsibilities that accompany human freedom. Free us from the falsehoods that lead to the evil of abortion and threaten the sanctity of family life. Grant our country the wisdom to proclaim that God's law is the foundation on which this nation was founded, and that He alone is the True Source of our cherished rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. O Merciful Mother, give us the courage to reject the culture of death and the strength to build a new Culture of Life.

Trusting in your most powerful intercession, we pray,

Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to thy protection, implored thy help, or sought thy intercession was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, we fly unto thee, O Virgin of virgins, our Mother. To thee do we come, before thee we stand, sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not our petitions, but in thy mercy hear and answer us. Amen

Msgr. William J. Blacet

Servant and Steward: Sad yet happy

Servant and Steward: Sad yet happy

A great reflection on the Stigmata of Francis.

I remember the flags.

I remember the flags.

This is the 7^th September 11 that went by since the terrorist attack on our country.

I remember the sound of the incredulous radio broadcaster announcing the first tower being hit. I remember thinking that it was just some sort of crazy media scare, something blown out of proportion as I sat in my car on the way to the office.

I remember praying in front of the neighbors television as we came from nearby offices to see "Ground Zero" and witnessing in the collapse of the second tower the deaths of thousands of innocent people - and I was thankful, as I was often the person in the wrong place at the wrong time.

I remember the uncertainty of what was going on around us- rumors of other incidents until the dust cleared. How much was hanging on the thread of civilization, which I had not ever seen as vulnerable before.

I remember the desire to get home to be with Jennie and the kids… The desire to light a candle, say a prayer and commend the day's events to God.

I remember our personal response, a pulling together of loosely fitting neighbors. I realized on September 11^th that being an American was something to not be taken lightly.

I remember singing the patriotic songs. And the flags that sprung up as flowers in a place where the dirty destructive fingers of terrorism had spread a rotting odor. The flag reminded us where we were, where we came from and where we wanted to go. And the flag moves forward. The American People move forward. The stench of terrorism is in the air, no longer ignored, but overwhelmed by the sweet breeze of freedom which is felt in our hearts and seen in the flutter of the flag.

I don't see them around so much these days. Much like the feeling for the appreciation of our American way of life, the flag is mostly put away and only taken out when we need to remember. But the flag is there. Always real. Always ready. We will see it when we need to and know that we do not stand alone, but as one nation under the protection of almighty God.

Prayer for the Coming Kingdom

I bow to the sacred in all creation.
May my spirit fill the world with beauty and wonder.
May my mind seek truth with humility and openness.
May my heart forgive without limit.
May my love for friend, enemy, and outcast be without measure.
May my needs be few and my living simple.
May my actions bear witness to the suffering of others.
May my hands never harm a living being.
May my steps stay on the journey of justice.
May my tongue speak for those who are poor without fear of the powerful.
May my prayers rise with patient discontent until no child is hungry.
May my life's work be a passion for peace and nonviolence.
May my soul rejoice in the present moment.
May my imagination overcome death and despair with new possibility.
And may I risk reputation, comfort, and security to bring this hope to the children.
- Mary Lou Kownacki, OSB.

God Answers Prayer!

God's responses to prayer:

1.) No, not yet
2.) No, I love you too much;
3.) Yes, I thought you'd never ask;
4.) Yes, and here's more"

Moments

Happy moments, PRAISE GOD.
Difficult moments, SEEK GOD.
Quiet moments, WORSHIP GOD.
Painful moments, TRUST GOD.
Every moment, THANK GOD

A Letter from God

I came across this some time ago and wanted to share this.

I hope it lifts your day and that you experience the touch of the Father.

Peace be with you.

A Letter from God

The American Life League Report on blip.tv

The American Life League Report on blip.tv

Why would youtube pull this but allow Planned Parenthood (Prenatal Peril) their "clever" ads.

I asked God...

I asked God for water, He gave me an ocean.
I asked God for a flower, He gave me a garden.
I asked God for a friend, He gave me all of YOU...

If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.
Happy moments, praise God.
Difficult moments, seek God.
Quiet moments, worship God
Painful moments, trust God.
Every moment, thank God.

31 Days to a More Powerful You

31 Days to a More Powerful You

A program of reading the book of proverbs over the month for 1 year. Give God's word a chance to take root in your life. It will be a true blessing to you.

MANGER SCENES VANDALIZED

The world would destroy what is is looking for!

Please erect display and promote manger scenes so that people can be reminded of what CHRISTMAS is all about.

I don't know what a holiday season is supposed to be about, but Christmas is something I do know (being a son of Claus) and is a time of love and family.

I hope that the Christmas gifts of Hope, Peace Joy and/or Love are yours always, kind reader.



MANGER SCENES VANDALIZED

Today, the Catholic League erected a nativity scene in Central Park. Unfortunately, vandals have destroyed or stolen manger scenes nationwide. Here are some of the locales:

· Foreman, Arizona
· Rogers, Arizona
· Antioch, California
· Glastonbury, Connecticut
· Arredondo Farms, Florida (three instances)
· Bal Harbour, Florida
· Fort Walton Beach, Florida
· Panama City, Florida (more than a dozen incidences)
· Tampa, Florida
· Bainbridge, Georgia
· Schaumberg, Illinois (two instances)
· Kearney, Missouri (two instances)
· Kirkwood, Missouri
· Bozeman, Montana
· Lattimore, North Carolina
· Westbury, New York (the homeowner was assaulted)
· Elyria, Ohio
· Sylvania Township, Ohio
· Greensboro, North Carolina
· Leesburg, Virginia
· Marlow, West Virginia

In perhaps the sickest incident, an elementary public school coach in Marietta, Georgia drove students around the area in his pickup truck instructing them to thrash Christmas displays after dark; they also created obscene displays with some of the adorning statues.

baby hedgehog - iriqi

baby hedgehog - iriqi
Originally uploaded by The Kosovar

I saw this picture and it reminded me of our pet hedgehogs we had about 6 or 7 years ago.

They are very hard to find, and I found a pet store that was willing to order it. We took a triip also to NYC where I found a nice fellow on the internet who had a pet hedgehog and was trying to get someone to pay attention to her.

So we had 2 hedgehogs. They lasted about 4 or 5 months. We used to let them go on the couch with us and Jennie would make a tunnel for them to run along. Our pet cats were curiouis but kept their distance.

How a spikey creature got to be so close to us is beyond me. When they picked up a cough and passed on it was sad for the whole family. Their time with us ws a special blessing and I'll aways have a warm place in my heart for these creatures.

Just this side of heaven
is a place called
Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies
that has been
especially close
to someone here,
that pet goes
to Rainbow Bridge.


There are meadows
and hills for all
of our special friends
so they can run
and play together.

There is plenty
of food, water
and sunshine,
and our friends
are warm
and comfortable.

All the animals
who had been ill
and old
are restored
to health and vigor.


Those who were hurt
or maimed
are made whole
and strong again,
just as we remember
them in our dreams
of days and times
gone by.

The animals are
happy and content,
except for one
small thing;
they each miss
someone
very special
to them,
who had to be
left behind.

They all run
and play together,
but the day comes
when one suddenly
stops and looks
into the distance.


His bright eyes
are intent.

His eager body
quivers.

Suddenly he begins
to run from
the group,
flying over
the green grass,
his legs carrying
him faster
and faster.

You have been
spotted, and when
you and your
special friend
finally meet,
you cling together
in joyous reunion,
never to be
parted again.

The happy kisses
rain upon your face;
your hands again
caress the beloved head,
and you look once more
into the trusting eyes
of your pet,
so long gone
from your life
but never absent
from
your heart.

Then you cross
Rainbow Bridge
together....

Author unknown

One in a million shot A smile from God...

Miracle Monday

The following reflection from Jim Rohn reflects my belief that Miracles abound in everyday life. Thanks to Sr. Pat for the quote!

I have found in life that if you want a miracle
you first need to do whatever it is you can do -
if that's to plant, then plant;
if it is to read, then read;
if it is to change, then change;
if it is to study, then study;
if it is to work, then work;
whatever you have to do.
And then you will be well on your way of doing the labor that works miracles.
Jim Rohn.

What miracles did you experience today?
The smile of a child.
A revelation of a mystery of who I am
Feet trodding familiar paths
A fall breeze foreboding winter.
A memory of a face from the past, a prayer on my lips.
A moment to pause and marvel- Shhh... I'm talking to God!

Remember Me- Veteran's Day

The email I received had the following note:
This film was made by a 15 year old girl.

The following is the hottest thing on the Internet and on Fox News today.

Lizzie Palmer who put this YouTube program together is 15 years old. There have been over 3,000,000 hits as of this morning. In case you missed it, here it is.



Take a minute. Remember Them. Pray for them.

And When they are home, embrace them.

How Halloween Can Be Redeemed

How Halloween Can Be Redeemed

I learned a few things about the background of Halloween, and I now I can support if for the right reasons!

Happy Halloween! And walk carefully, for Sister Death follows.......

Hang On to Each Other - [from LifeSupport]

The following illustrates how God may send us to others, to shower his love on them, and in the process, shower His love on us.

HANG ON TO EACH OTHER

Too often we feel alone. But there is always someone ready to take our
hand. There is a beautiful story of an overworked nurse who escorted a
tired, young man to her patient's bedside. Leaning over and speaking
loudly to the elderly patient, she said, "Your son is here."

With great effort, his unfocussed eyes opened, then flickered shut
again. The young man squeezed the aged hand in his and sat beside the
bed. Throughout the night he sat there, holding the old man's hand and
whispering words of comfort.

By morning's light, the patient had died. In moments, hospital staff
swarmed into the room to turn off machines and remove needles. The
nurse stepped over to the young man's side and began to offer
sympathy, but he interrupted her. "Who was that man?" he asked.

The startled nurse replied, "I thought he was your father!"

"No, he was not my father," he answered. "I never saw him before in my
life."

"Then why didn't you say something when I took you to him?"

"I realized he needed his son and his son wasn't here," the man
explained. "And since he was too sick to recognize that I was not his
son, I knew he needed me."

Mother Teresa used to remind us that nobody should have to die alone.
Likewise, nobody should have to grieve alone or cry alone either. Or
laugh alone or celebrate alone.

We are made to travel life's journey hand in hand. There is someone
ready to grasp your hand today. And someone hoping you will take
theirs.

-- Steve Goodier www.lifesupport.com

Do You Have It?

I bet you'll know the answer before reading this article. If not, you'll know when you are done.

LifeSupport : Message: The Symptoms of Inner Peace

Prayer for Autumn Days
God of the seasons, there is a time for everything; there is a time for dying and a time for rising. We need courage to enter into the transformation process. God of autumn, the trees are saying goodbye to their green, letting go of what has been. We, too, have our moments of surrender, with all their insecurity and risk. Help us to let go when we need to do so. God of fallen leaves lying in colored patterns on the ground, our lives have their own patterns. As we see the patterns of our own growth, may we learn from them. God of misty days and harvest moon nights, there is always the dimension of mystery and wonder in our lives. We always need to recognize your power-filled presence. May we gain strength from this. God of harvest wagons and fields of ripened grain, many gifts of growth lie within the season of our surrender. We must wait for harvest in faith and hope. Grant us patience when we do not see the blessings. God of geese going south for another season, your wisdom enables us to know what needs to be left behind and what needs to be carried into the future. We yearn for insight and vision. God of flowers touched with frost and windows wearing white designs, may your love keep our hearts from growing cold in the empty seasons. God of life, you believe in us, you enrich us, you entrust us with the freedom to choose life. For all this, we are grateful. Author Unknown

Fund Adoption Vanity Plate

In this day of vanity let some vanity do some good.... with a vanity plate. (available in CT, NY, and NJ)

Fund Adoption

Abortion is not a choice, it's a baby!

99 Balloons

What is life truly about? I think Elliot and his family have a gimpse of the answer and have shared a taste of the truth about the purpose of life. This is really moving and brought me to the tears which are a gift from the Spirit to allow us to know that we have touched the Holy, the veil has been lifted and God is with us today.

Took My Place!

One day, a man went to visit a church, He got there early, parked his car and got out. Another car pulled up near; the driver got out and said, ' I always park there! You took my place!' The visitor went inside for Sunday School, found an empty seat and sat down. A young lady from the church approached him and stated, 'That's my seat! You took my place!' The visitor was somewhat distressed by this rude welcome, but said nothing. After Sunday School, the visitor went into the sanctuary and sat down. Another member walked up to him and said, ' That's where I always sit! You took my place!' The visitor was even more troubled by this treatment, but still He said nothing. Later as the congregation was praying for Christ to dwell among them, the visitor stood up, and his appearance began to change. Horrible scars became visible on his hands and on his sandaled feet. Someone from the congregation noticed him and called out, 'What Happened to you?' The visitor replied, as his hat became a crown of thorns, and a tearfell from his eye, 'I took your place.'
Say a prayer when you see this. Maybe, just maybe, we can get the world to start thinking of who took our place.

Author Unknown

May the Lord Bless You....

“Tell Aaron and his sons to bless the people of Israel with this special blessing: ‘May the LORD bless you and protect you. May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. May the LORD show you his favor and give you his peace.’ Whenever Aaron and his sons bless the people of Israel in my name, I myself will bless them.” Numbers 6:22-27"

Miller Time Again

September 28, 2007

MILLER OFFICERS RECEIVE S&M PHOTOS;
BOYCOTT TO EXTEND BEYOND SUNDAY’S EVENT
Catholic League president Bill Donohue explained the latest developments in the boycott against Miller Brewing:
“Miller Brewing will now be known as S&M Miller, and that is because it has apparently decided to drop anchor with the sadomasochistic festival that it is proudly sponsoring on Sunday at the Folsom Street Fair in San Francisco. It still refuses to pull sponsorship of this obscene event, knowing full well that it is making a financial contribution to an anti-Catholic group, the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence; the Sisters is one of the beneficiaries of the street fair. And last night in San Francisco, the Sisters held a mock Last Supper, ridiculing all Christians.
“Yesterday, we sent all eleven members of the company’s Executive Committee a sample of the kinds of sick behaviors (click here) S&M Miller is sponsoring; the packet was sent by overnight mail to the all-male committee. The accompanying memo says:
It is hard to believe that if you knew exactly what kind of event the Folsom Street Fair is that you would want Miller to be sponsoring it. That is why I am sending the enclosed photos of this event (taken from previous years) to you. In the outside chance you are not disturbed by these photos, please show them to your mother, wife and daughters. I trust that you will do the right thing and withdraw sponsorship of this event immediately. Rest assured that we will not walk away from this issue. The public is rallying to our side, emboldening us to stay in this fight for as long as it takes.
“Over 200 religious organizations spanning six faith communities were sent a letter yesterday asking them to join us in the boycott. If S&M Miller doesn’t pull its sponsorship, we will announce a game plan on Monday that will make the company regret it ever decided to insult Christians.”
Contact Miller Brewing at 1-800-MILLER 6 or 414-931-2000

International Talk Like a Pirate Day - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Ahoy me hearties,

It's talk like a Pirate day!

International Talk Like a Pirate Day - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Just a reminder - even if you can talk the talk, can you walk the walk? Or would you walk the plank?

Only be the grace of God!

Arrrrgh!

God is in New York!

Who would think??
Right here.
In our presence.
The awesome wonder of God.
Here.
Sharing our Daily life.



Thank you Jesus.

Catechism Quiz: How Do We React to Mother Teresa's Doubts

How Do We React to Mother Teresa's Doubts? (from Friar Jack's E-spirations)
by Friar Jim Van Vurst, O.F.M.

I met Mother Teresa of Calcutta in 1981 during the dedication of a peace garden located at my seminary in Cincinnati, Ohio. She was in the U.S. visiting primarily to establish her community in New York City. It was a beautiful June Sunday afternoon, and I found myself standing right next to this amazing little woman. I say “little” since I’m 6'2" and Mother’s head seemed to barely reach my elbows.

Many of you saw on the Internet and television the reaction to the “revelations” of Mother’s book (Come, Be My Light) of correspondence with her spiritual directors. She described in deeply moving words her struggles with faith, her doubts and sense of abandonment by God. On the surface, her words appear shocking, but in reality she was experiencing what Catholic spirituality describes as the “dark night.” There is no question that to suffer this for a 40-year period must have been a terrible trial. What it says is that this saintly nun, so dedicated to others, also bore a gigantic cross that only increased her holiness and union with God.

What was unfortunate, though understandable, was how people, who didn’t know the theology or language of the spiritual life, reacted, referring to Mother Teresa as a “fake and a pretender” and, worse, a “liar.”

One thing we know for sure is that Mother Teresa was never a fake or a liar. Her whole life was as honest and true as it could be. Her entire being was to do the will of God and, in fact, that it is exactly what she did so wonderfully. If you look at her influence, her wonderful religious community and the tens of thousands of people she and her sisters have helped, we see that her life was an amazing journey with God and ministry to the poorest of the poor.

But what about the darkness, the doubts and the dryness of her life where God seemed to be gone? We ordinarily equate the presence of God with deep feelings of certainty, almost as if you can reach out and touch him. But all those feelings and experiences are not God himself. They are our understanding and images of God. As a person seeks to draw closer to God, God begins to remove all those things that we think are God but are only representations. And one by one, the closeness of God may seem to fade or disappear.

In the language of the spiritual life, Mother Teresa was experiencing the dark night of the senses and of the spirit, which has been written about in Catholic spirituality. The dark night is certainly not punishment given by God. Quite the opposite. It is a sign of spiritual growth and reflects the paradox of the gospel: To die is to live, to live is to die, less is more and more is less. The great expositors of these spiritual principles were St. John of the Cross and St. Teresa of Avila. (For those of you who would like to read about these spiritual principles, check this Web site: danschrock.org/Contemplation.aspx.)

Mother Teresa was not fake, nor did she lose her faith. In fact, her faith grew all the time while she was walking with the Lord, growing deeper in her union with him. However, her experience was of just the opposite. Real faith is believing in what we cannot see or feel. Faith is the strongest when there are no feelings and reassurances. All saints speak of similar experiences, whether they were religious or laity.

From St. Francis of Assisi to St. Thérèse of Lisieux, saints and all those seeking union with God have experienced darkness and struggles, some more than others. But perhaps the most important example is what Jesus experienced during his own passion and death, hanging on the cross. In his human nature, he experienced an abandonment of God: “Why have you forsaken me?” But would anyone doubt that his faith at the moment of deepest sacrifice was the greatest ever?

One final point: Some people may feel upset that Mother Teresa’s letters were published and not destroyed as she had wanted. If every saint who died got their wish that their correspondence be destroyed, the Christian world would be without some of the most instructive and inspiring writings we could have. (Saints don’t always know what should be and should not be published.) Her experiences will enlighten a lot of people. (I just ordered her book, Come, Be My Light.)

I had to share this. May the doubt expressed by Mother Theresa be:
- a sign that God's greatness surpasses human (even Saintly) understanding
- an encouragement to us
- a reminder that God simply does not abandon us. We may not always see Him through our Life on earth, but he is unmistakably. present. Our knowlege of His presence is a gift from Him to us. Its a gift to pray for and not take for granted.

May Christ Always be With Us!

Encourage not needed, time marches on.....

The following quotes provide no great encouragement for the future.
Yet time marches on, and each great idea in its time....

"Radio has no future. Heavier-than-air flying machines are
impossible. X-rays will prove to be a hoax." - English
scientist William Thomson, Lord Kelvin, 1899

"Television won't matter in your lifetime or mine." - Radio
Times editor Rex Lambert, 1936

"There is no reason anyone would want a computer in their
home." - Ken Olson, president, chairman, and founder of
Digital Equipment Corp., 1977

"By 2000, the machines will be producing so much that every-
one in the U.S. will, in effect, be independently wealthy.
- Time Magazine, 1966

"An impractical sort of fad, and has no place in the
serious job of postal transportation." - Second Assistant
U.S. Postmaster General Paul Henderson on airmail, 1922

"It's a bad joke that won't last. Not with winter coming."
- Fashion designer CoCo Chanel on miniskirts, 1966

"Everything that can be invented has been invented." -
Charles H. Duell, Commissioner, U.S. Office of Patents,
1899

"Who the hell wants to hear actors talk?" - H.M. Warner,
Warner Brothers, 1927

"You ought to go back to driving a truck." - Concert
manager, firing Elvis Presley in 1954

"We don't like their sound, and guitar music is on the way
out." - Decca Recording Co., rejecting the Beatles, 1962

"It doesn't matter what he does, he will never amount to
anything." - Albert Einstein's teacher to his father, 1895

Drive-by Evangelism, or Missional Rescue Force?

Drive-by Evangelism, or Missional Rescue Force?

Where is the Love? A California pediatrician reportedly refused to treat a baby girl because her mother had tattoos. The doctor, whose name I won’t mention, says “his Christian faith has inspired him to enforce certain standards in his medical practice, and that means no tattoos, no body piercings, and no gum chewing.” The article goes on: “After taking one look at Tasha Childress, who has both tattoos and piercings, [the doctor] asked her and her daughter to leave.” The shunned mother, speaking about her daughter, said, “She had to go that entire night with her ear infection with no medicine because he has his policy; it isn’t right.”



Christ did not deny any who came to him. We must be prepared to do the same.



Lord allow me to see You in all who come to me for assistance, and may be be as eager to help them as I would you.

Anne Rice and Hillary; Pa. bishop responds to Catholic activist

Anne Rice and Hillary; Pa. bishop responds to Catholic activist

Is Hillary Clinton the voice of America?

I know at least some people in this country who do not believe that she is the voice of anyone else but herself and special interests wo support her.

I would sooner listen to a bishop who speaks from tradition and the bible, who holds life as a sacred creation.

RU 486 abortion pill unsafe despite media reports

RU 486 abortion pill unsafe despite media reports

Let us pray for those who take this pill. Let us pray that the word of the unsafeness of it is spread to the point where no one wants it and no one will prescribe it.

God of Light and Life enlighten our hearts to remain on your path!

A Pure Heart

A Pure Heart
by Jon Walker



“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10 NIV)

Oh God, create in me a pure heart ...


A heart that won’t run with lust after physical pleasure,
A heart that obediently refuses what you’ve rightly and wisely fenced away as sin,
A heart of love that never insists on its own way (1 John 2:16).

Oh God, create in me a pure heart ...


A heart that knows no greed when it looks upon worldly treasures,
A heart that thinks of others, and not itself,
A heart that argues for love instead of fairness.

Oh God, create in me a pure heart ...


A heart that never boasts about what it has or what its done,
A heart that walks humbly, not trying to appear more important than it is,
A heart that takes no pride in the flesh.

Oh God, create in me a pure heart ...


A heart that chases after you,
A heart that looks to you for its provision,
A heart that trusts that you are at work in others,
A heart that does not manipulate people or circumstances,
A heart that looks upon the things above and not the things below.

Heavenly Father, renew a steadfast spirit within me ...


A spirit committed completely to you,
A spirit that is not double-minded,
A spirit that is focused, and single minded on your purposes,
A spirit resolved to know Christ and Christ alone.

So what?


Start from the top of the devotional, and work your way down.

© 2007 Jon Walker. All rights reserved.

May my heart always reflect You Lord!

A Message From a Saint About Cell Phones & Life - Natural Life Magazine May/June 2007

A modern discussion about cellphones and technology with St. Francis. Yes, St.Francis somehow approves technology as the means to an end, not the end in itself.



St Francis took every opportunity to follow Christ and we must do the same.



If we figure out how to make cell phone calls, do laundry, drive our cars (see Pope Benedict's Ten Commandments of the Road) do our appointed jobs in the Spirit of St. Francis, the Peace of Christ will be with us.



A Message From a Saint About Cell Phones & Life - Natural Life Magazine May/June 2007



May Peace be with you today!

Chicago Catholics Outraged by Hillary Speech

I have shown (and currently eliminated) Rudy as my candidate.
Hillary Clinton goes even further down the totem pole. Apparantly she only cares about current voters and not the voters of the future.

Chicago Catholics Outraged by Hillary Speech

Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel for the Conversion of Abortionists

"Saint Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle, be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the devil. May God rebuke him we humbly pray; and do thou, O Prince of the Heavenly host, by the power of God, cast into hell Satan and all evil spirits who wander through the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen. www.hli.org/st_michael_prayer.html

Giuliani’s Catholic chameleon campaign

I am looking for a candidate who aligns with Catholic beliefs and social activism.

It appears that Rudy falls short. Catholics are not chameleons. We are what we are. We are not perfect, but we strive for the perfect kingdom of God.

Giuliani’s Catholic chameleon campaign

Bishop of Rhode Island condemns Giuliani's abortion stance

New FDA guidelines threaten religious freedoms; Holy water could be regulated as "drugs" and rosaries as "medical devices"

New FDA guidelines threaten religious freedoms; Holy water could be regulated as "drugs" and rosaries as "medical devices"

A while a go I saw this- something that made me go 'hmm'.

What kind of government would keep the health from the health seekers.

And what kind of license would the Heavenly Physician require?

And allow the perfectly created to die because they were not yet born......

Maybe "Culture of Death" is where you are when you step outside the kingdom of God.

God shows His love for us because

God shows His love for us because:

He chose us,
He seeks us,
He instructs us and teaches us with patience,
He demonstrates His love in ways we can understand,
He hurts for us,
He forgives us,
and He saves us. -

Hosea 11

What Saints Are For!

What Saints Are For!

(Just a Word of Encouragement from Mark Shea and Jeff Cavins)

1 Corinthians 11:1
Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.

If you've ever wondered why the Catholic Church canonizes saints, today's verse gives the basic reason. We don't just learn about Christ from looking at Christ. We learn about Christ from looking at how His Spirit works in the lives of all His holy saints. 'For Christ plays in ten thousand places,/ Lovely in limbs, and lovely in eyes not his/ To the Father through the features of men's faces' Gerard Manley Hopkins.

St. Juan Diego is model of lay evangelist says Mexican cardinal

St. Juan Diego is model of lay evangelist says Mexican cardinal

Echoes of St. Francis of Assisi and his evangelization entered as I read this article. St. Francis always submitted to his bishop, and then, in starting his order, to the pope. The comments about St Juan Diego and his releationship with his bishop remind me of our relationship with the Pope, who has been teaching and clarifying the position of the church.

Juan Diego's obediance to our lady and the church as personified in the bishop speak volumes of his love for Jesus. And the miracle that blessed him is an echo through history that God will bless us he will not abandon us, he will provide for us and provide abundantly.

It is said that if you look with a microscope into the eyes of our lady's image on the tilma, that the images of those present can be seen in those eyes. Just as we are always present in the eyes of God, in an eternal gaze of love.

May St. Juan Diego and our lady keep us in prayer before our Lord. May he steady our steps in walking the path set before us and so enter our eternal reward.

[LifeSupport] Encouragement Works

Author Ron Dunn tells the story of two altar boys. One was born in 1892 in Eastern Europe. The other was born just three years later in a small town in Illinois (USA). Though their lives were quite different,these two boys shared a similar experience. Each altar boy assisted his parish priest in the celebration of Mass. While handling the chalice during Holy Eucharist, they both accidentally spilled some of the wine on the carpet.But this is where their stories diverge. The priest in the Eastern European church, seeing the purple stain, slapped the altar boy across the face and shouted, "Clumsy oaf! Leave the altar." He did. The little boy grew up to become the atheist and communist dictator of Yugoslavia, Josip Broz Tito. The priest in the church in Illinois, upon seeing the wine stain,knelt down beside the boy and looked him tenderly in the eyes and said, "It's all right, son. You'll do better next time. You'll be a fine priest for God someday." That little boy grew up to become the much loved Bishop Fulton J. Sheen.We will never know how much a kind and encouraging word from the priest, or the lack of one, influenced these boys' lives. But kindness and instruction are always far more valuable than anger and criticism.Encouragement works.-- Steve Goodier

A Delicious Solution for High Blood Pressure

A Delicious Solution for High Blood Pressure
By Jon Herring
More good news for chocolate lovers. A recent study, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, shows that eating just a small amount of dark chocolate can be as effective at lowering blood pressure as making major dietary changes. And it is certainly an easier regimen to maintain.
German researchers at the University Hospital of Cologne divided 44 adults with early-stage hypertension into two groups. The subjects ate 6.3 grams of either dark chocolate or white chocolate each day. While the dark chocolate contained about 30 mg of beneficial polyphenols (from cocoa), the white chocolate contained none.
The subjects who consumed the dark chocolate experienced an average systolic blood pressure reduction of 2.9 mm Hg and diastolic BP reduction of 1.9 mm Hg. Furthermore, the percentage of the test subjects who were clinically diagnosed with hypertension dropped from 86 percent to 68 percent. And these improvements were made without any changes in body weight, blood lipids, or blood sugar levels. Those who ate the white chocolate saw no changes.
The polyphenols in cocoa work as vasodilators, helping the blood vessels relax and become more flexible, and thus reducing the pressure inside. And it takes a surprisingly small amount to have an effect.
So if you love chocolate, take heart. But stick to dark chocolate. Milk chocolate has very little cocoa and too much sugar. You can also buy organic powdered cocoa at most health food stores. I often mix a teaspoon or two into my coffee, or I mix it in milk and add a teaspoon of erythritol for a tasty and healthful chocolate drink.

Letter to Amnesty International

Good Day to All!

While the proposed action by Amnesty International (in support of abortion) may appear to some to support women's freedom or provide a compassionate response to women in difficult situations of pregnancy, abortion injures the health and dignity of women at the same time that it ends the life of the unborn child. A far more compassionate response is to provide support and services for pregnant women, advance their educational and economic standing in society, and resist all forms of violence and stigmatization against them. (See Bishop Skylstad's Letter to AI .)

Many of the great figures of our time who advanced human rights and compassion for the destitute - Susan B. Anthony, Mohandas Gandhi, Mother Teresa, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Archbishop Oscar Romero, Dorothy Day, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Fannie Lou Hamer - also opposed abortion. Many will find it incomprehensible that these giants of human progress must now be seen as enemies of human rights. The action of the Executive Council undermines AI's longstanding moral credibility, diverts its mission, divides its own members (many of whom are Catholic or defend the rights of unborn children), and jeopardizes AI's support by people in many nations, cultures and religions.

I humbly ask that the action be reconsidered as many lives and the quality of other lives hang in the balance. There is a great opportunity presented in this issue to defend human lives, especially those who are unable to speak for themselves.

--
God does not ask about our ability, but our availability.
-Anonymous

Sandal tracksto Paradise