Saint Francis

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love
Where there is injury, pardon
Where there is doubt, faith
Where there is darkness, light
And where there is sadness, joy.

O Divine Master grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled
As to console; to be understood as to understand
To be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive
It is in pardoning that we are pardoned
And it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life.

*Daniel Barden

Amazing Grace

I received the most beautiful gift today. I suppose at some level it was necessary to adequately prepare myself to receive it. Perhaps yesterdays post was the groundwork needed to insure I was aligned properly to handle so unique a gift. Something so radiant. I won't trouble you with the number of coincidents that had to happen for me to see it (seems it aired a week ago). I will let it speak for itself.

http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/2012/12/18/mcdonnell-parents-live-through-grace/

It was never my intention to single out a child or teacher. I'm sure each has astonishing aspects to their life's. Still, the dignity on display insists on being shared. While Chris and Lynn McDonnell allow the children to "guide them," I will allow Chris and Lynn to guide me. How could I do less?

* Grace McDonnell

Do Not Pass Go

I have been locked in my own limitations. Overwhelmed by the magnitude of Newtown. Challenged by previous posts (12-10; 11-2; and 10-10). What I had misplaced was the reality of the end of John 14:10; "...but the Father that dwelleth in me, He doeth the work." Because simply put, this is a national issue that isn't going away anytime soon. And it is going to take the efforts of millions of Americans. I can only play a small part. But what part I can play, I can do "better than my best."

One of my tasks is to pray for Wayne LaPierre (CEO-NRA) and those who share his views. To meet fear with love. To be as inclusive as I suggest. Respect opinions that I vehemently disagree with. To look at inane comments from the likes of Mike Hucklebee and accept his intentions as legitimate, no matter how misguided. To realize it will take more involvement in the political process that I detest.

Another task set before me is to remember. Each and every one of you who were taken too soon. To that end, the next 26 posts will end with a name. I will try and honor your memory.

* Charlotte Bacon