Old couples

Proverbs 16:31 Gray hair is a crown of splendor; it is attained by a righteous life.

This morning I went to the 8 am mass at Holy Spirit by myself.  We always go to 9:15 as a family but were splitting up today to accomplish some tasks.  I was 15 minutes early so of course I was sitting in my car finishing my coffee scrolling through facebook when I happened to look up and witness such a touching site.  We all know the usual people early for 8 am mass tend to be in the "blue hair" age range as my dad would say.  Yes this is a stereotype but very true.  What struck me was the way the couples were all holding hands or touching in some way.  I don't believe it was out of necessity although many had canes and moved slowly, but more out of love and tradition.  It almost moved me to tears... I don't know any of these older couples and certainly don't know their stories but from what I could see, this is the purest vision of true love and a life well lived.  Of course they were all dressed up, the men in suit coats and the ladies with dresses or skirts.  Most ladies had on the funny see through rain hats that I have no idea where they buy even though it had not started raining yet for the day.  It made me sad to see this as almost an end to an era...
It also gave me a new dream I didn't know I even wanted... of course I love my husband and promise to till the end of our days but I want to be old and gray someday and still want to hold his hand when we walk.  Even now our kiddos giggle when we hug or kiss and it just makes me realize we need to do it more often for the world to see.  I want my children to see that love is good and all around them.

1 Corinthians 13:13 And now these three remain: faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.

Joyful Heart

Proverbs 17:22   A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.

We all have those friends and family members that tend to see the worst in most situations.  Fall is here, look at the beautiful colors… just think how much time I will spend raking up those leaves only to have the neighbor’s blow into my yard by morning.  Spring flowers smell amazing… it’s a shame they won’t last very long.  Snow is falling, time for snowmen, sledding, and hot cocoa… these school delays are sure messing up my mommy schedule.  Summer sun is here, time for swimming, bike rides, and picnics at the park… it is so hot out here, my back is sticking to my lawn chair, let’s go back in the air conditioning.  Let’s be honest… yes, I have had those thoughts once or twice (especially about the school closings… its preschool where I drive them to the door people!)  We need to strive to see the good in all situations and be that positive influence in other’s lives.  It is gorgeous here today, 70 and sunny and I can’t wait for my kiddos to wake from naps to hit the swing set in our backyard.  Ask yourself, which one are you? Are you the one whose positivity is bubbling over and infects the group with lighthearted joy? Or, are you the one that finds the worst in each situation and whose glass is always half empty?  I challenge you to change your attitude and find the positive in every situation.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-19  Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in ALL circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit.

This is my 2 1/2 year old, Logan, enjoying the fall leaves...a great picture of a joyful heart!!