Love You Mom!

 

  Today we celebrate Mother's Day! I have two mothers in heaven-my earthly mother and my heavenly mother. My heart goes out to both of them today, for they have significantly shaped me into the person I am. Today is a day to give our mothers cards, flowers, or special little gifts.  They, of course, will be thoughtful and appreciated, but I would like to suggest another incredible gift. Either begin or renew your devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary.

  This devotion spans the centuries, but was significantly highlighted at Fatima in 1917. It was initially one of the three secrets given to the children at Fatima.  During an apparition in 1925, Sister Lucia was permitted to reveal the secret.  Jesus desired a devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. It was Mary's heart that nourished Him in the womb, Mary's heart that raised Him on earth, and Mary's heart that suffered as He hung on the cross. And now it pleases Jesus to allow many souls to be saved and for peace to come to the world through loving the Immaculate Heart of His mother.

  This Mother's Day, let's make Jesus happy.  Let's give Mary our hearts.  Let our prayers through the Rosary join hers, for faithfulness to God and for peace in the world. If you are looking for the perfect thoughtful gift that could change the world and make heaven sing, this is it! I may never do anything significant in the eyes of men in my lifetime, but I hope that at the end of my life, there will be a tombstone with a rosary on it that reads, "She helped change the world by giving Jesus and Mary her heart."

-Susan

May is for Mary!

 

  Celebrating Mary in May makes me so happy!  You may be wondering, "Why do we honor Mary throughout the entire month of May?" My response is, "One month isn't long enough! Let's keep it going until the end of October!"  I don't know how I would get through life without Mary. She is the calm in my storms, the compass when I am lost, the hand that pulls me forward, and the mother who loves me more than I deserve. I have consecrated myself to Mary, and I strongly encourage everyone to do the same.

  Mary loves God and His Will perfectly. Mary's life on earth, and now in heaven, is devoted to serving God and loving the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Whatever love we give to Mary, she gives it to God.  She makes a constant gift of herself to God. Mary takes the love we offer to God, purifies it, and combines it with her own love, so that our gift of love to God is greater than we could offer on our own.

  "My soul does magnify the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my savior." Mary helps us to recognize God's goodness in our lives.  She highlights His Mercy, His love, and His forgiveness.  We often underestimate God's love, and we are so fortunate to have Mary, who highlights God's generosity. Mary's clear focus on God helps us to become more faithful by placing God at the forefront of our lives and allowing distractions to fade away.

  Commit yourselves to Mary this month and all the days to follow. You will discover that the closer you grow to Mary, the closer you come to God! God certainly arranges everything perfectly, doesn't He? I am amazed by all the gifts He has given us, especially the gift of His own mother!

-Susan

Mary, Mother of God

 

  

  Today we celebrate the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. Honoring Mary and placing ourselves in her care is the perfect way to begin the new year.  Christ came into this world as a small baby dependent on the care and protection of Mary and Joseph.  Jesus chose them, and we should too!  Entrust yourself to Mary's care.  Put your faith in her hands.  Mary knows exactly how to take care of something this fragile and essential.  

  Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us

-Susan 

The Letter Exchange (3)

 

(This Advent, we will prepare for the coming of the Christ Child through a series of fictional letters filled with hope, trust, and endless possibilities.)

My Dear Children,

  Thank you for sharing this special day with me. It brings me such joy to celebrate the incredible grace God has given me. The Almighty has been preparing me for my mission since the moment of my conception. Mighty are the Plans of God! "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways-oracle of the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, my thoughts higher than your thoughts." (Isaiah 55:8-9).

  God has also given each of you special graces to fulfill your mission. We are called to bring Christ to every person on this earth. My Son wants everyone to know and feel His love.  My dear little ones, you have been blessed in many wonderful ways. Be faithful to the Lord.  Do not take any of His blessings for granted. Today, as we gather around the altar, let us pray that the Father's Will be accomplished in each of our lives.

Your loving Mother,

Mary

-Susan

Meditating With Mary

  

  With your eyes closed, envision the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Your desire to draw nearer grows as you whisper prayers to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Mary quietly enters your thoughts as you pray and says, "Would you like to come closer? I know the way in." You nod. Mary reaches for your hand and gently holds it in hers. She raises her other hand, and suddenly, a door appears. She smiles and says, "Let me show you how to draw nearer to Him." Mary’s love pulls you closer to the love of Jesus.

 Mary tells you, "We can stay here as long as you desire." With Mary by your side, your heart beats in unison with the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and warmth engulfs your heart, almost overwhelming yet exhilarating at the same time. You close your eyes and allow the peace of Christ's love to fill you. Let go of all your stress and worries. Relax and remain silent as He whispers His desires. Listen carefully and allow His Words to realign your heart with His.  Remember, you can stay here as long as you desire.

-Susan

Dedicated to Mary and the Rosary

 

 My daughter needed pictures of her and her siblings as preschoolers for a project she's working on. She asked if I could look through the photo albums and send her a few. I always enjoy walking down memory lane when my children were younger. Revisiting all the happy moments in my life is always fun. I looked at all the first day of school, dance recital, prom, and homecoming pictures, and I smiled. But I smiled for another reason. In the background of many of my photographs was our statue of Mary. Mary is always with us. Thinking of all my moments with Mary brought happy tears to my eyes. 
 Although Mary is in the background of all my pictures, she has always been beside me or in front of me, guiding me through the twists and turns of my life. How grateful I am to have my heavenly mother always ready to help me with both big issues and small daily moments. If Mary had not helped me with the daily challenges, I would probably have fewer happy pictures of my life with my family. 
 October is dedicated to Mary and the Holy Rosary, and I can’t think of anything more powerful than praying a string of prayers with Mary and Jesus to help me get through life. The rosary isn’t just a habit for me; it’s a lifeline. Because of the Rosary, my life has more meaning, understanding, forgiveness, purpose, and love. My life isn’t perfect, and I don’t believe it ever will be, but I’m perfectly happy to spend each day with Jesus and Mary. Like the beads of the Rosary, my life’s path can shift and change, and I’m okay with that because Mary has never left me alone. She has held my hand, wiped my tears, and celebrated my joys, all while helping me focus on the crucifix. Mary helps me to understand that the crucifix is at the beginning and the end of the Rosary and every moment in between. 

-Susan

Mary's Assumption into Heaven

 

  If you could mystically experience one moment in Mary's life, which would it be? There are so many moments to choose from. The birth of Jesus and Mary's Assumption would be at the top of my list. I would love to see Mary's face the first time she sees the face of God and holds Him in her arms. I also would love to experience the joy in Mary's heart when she is carried into heaven and sees Jesus' face surrounded by all His glory and the glory of heaven! I imagine her pure heart overflowing with love, knowing that neither time nor space would ever come between them again. 

  Mary desires that each of us long for that moment too—our moment when we will see the face of Jesus forever. Mary wants to bring us into unity with Jesus! She understands the deep longing of a soul craving complete union with God. Like Mary, we must be faithful and watchful while we live here on earth. So, grab your rosary and let Mary teach you how to stay faithful. She is eager to help you.

  We would be wise to open the door of our homes to Mary just as Elizabeth and Zachariah did. Let Mary enter your home, speak your name, and allow the Holy Spirit to fill you. The sinless virgin can do so much for you if you let her. Once inside your home, open the door to your heart as well.  Let Mary write her prayers on your heart so that together you can give honor and glory to God. Give Mary your heart, and she will give you hers as well. Through the heart of Mary, you will see the face of God, hear His voice, and experience the joy of heaven! 

  We have so much to celebrate today! Let Mary open the door of our hearts to the splendor of heaven! 

-Susan

Moments With Mary

 

  I  often share my everyday moments of turning to Mary for help. I can't imagine my life without her by my side. I honestly think the world would be better if everyone entrusted themselves to Mary's care.  But today, I want to emphasize that our relationship with Mary is not one-sided. Just as she is there for us, we can also be there for her. 

 Every parent worries about their child.  I've taken my little worries and my big ones to Mary.  Wrapped up in my own distress, I have even mistakenly told Mary that she was so lucky to have the child Jesus. Instantly, I am reminded that my children are her children, and she has many more children to guide. Truly, Mary knows the pain of motherhood. 

 This week, let's come together in prayer. Ask Mary what troubles her heart, and if you could pray with her for that intention. Allow Mary to use our collective prayers for something beyond our reach or understanding. Place your hand in hers as she prays the Rosary. Let her know that at this moment, we are here for her, just as she has been for us. Together, let's help her guide someone else back to our Lord.  

-Susan

 

Moments With Mary

 

  I sat alone with the darkness all around me.  My thoughts weighed heavily on my mind and heart.  Too many questions with answers out of my control.  I couldn't fix this situation. These cards weren't dealt to me, but to someone else.  The results, however, would impact everyone.  

  All I could do was pray.  The waters of doubt and "what ifs" rose higher. I needed help. I turned towards the only window open to me. With my tear-stained eyes closed, I took in a deep breath of fresh air. A soft breeze touched my face as I exhaled.  I opened my eyes, and a small smile began to form. There in the moonlight was Mary.  Some would say she was just a statue, but my heart would never believe that. My mother is always there for me.  I felt her presence and her love.  I was not alone, and this darkness would not overcome me. 

  Together, we continued to pray. Our prayer ended with her loving arms embracing me as  I whispered, " Praise be to God! I  trust you, Lord. Amen."

-Susan

Moments Wth Mary And The New Pope!

 

  I, along with the rest of the world, am very excited to welcome Pope Leo XIV as the new successor of St. Peter!  I loved that the white smoke captivated the whole world, and everyone wondered who would be the next Pope for the Catholic Church. Our faith in the risen Christ is personal and intimate, and yet it is also universal.  Moments such as these allow us to experience and share our faith with others around the world. I had tears in my eyes standing less than a foot from my television and praying the Hail Mary with the new Pope and everyone worldwide! And even though I was not in St. Peter's Square, it was an incredible moment!

 This joyful moment of meeting our new Holy Father filled me with hope. I am eager to learn what our new Holy Father will teach us during this Jubilee Year of Hope and the personal insights he will share from his journey with Christ. Since Pope Leo XIV began his papacy by leading us in praying the Hail Mary, I believe he will lead us to Christ through Mary, which is my favorite path. I am excited for the journey ahead under his guidance.

 I would also like to take this moment to express my profound gratitude to God for the gift of Pope Francis. I will never forget his special Jubilee Year of Mercy and his tireless efforts to include everyone in Jesus' gospel of love.

 Happy Mother's Day to all you wonderful moms out there, from all walks of life and corners of the world! I hope you all have a blessed day celebrating your earthly mother and our beautiful Mother in Heaven!

-Susan  

Moments With Mary

 

  Happy May, everyone! May is the month we turn our eyes toward our heavenly Mother, Mary. Mary is so important in my life that I sometimes forget that many do not have a close personal relationship with her and don't even realize how much sweeter life can be when you reach out to Mary asking for her guidance and intercession. Let's celebrate the joy of a personal connection with Mary this month and inspire others to draw near to her.

 Recently, my daughter shared an experience she had with a friend. During their conversation, the friend was trying to remember a word. He said, "You know those necklaces some people wear with the beads and the cross?"

 My daughter laughed.  "You mean a rosary?'  She stretched out her hands in both directions, exclaiming, "I could probably reach out and touch a rosary in whatever room I am in my house."  She spun around and spotted one of my rosaries on the table. "It's not a necklace; the Rosary is a prayer.  My Mom's favorite."

 I laughed when she told me this story.  I do have several rosaries in different rooms in my house.  I like to pray everywhere, so that makes sense to me.  I know  I can call  Mary day or night; she is by my side. Mary is never too busy for me, and I hope my days are never too busy for Mary.

 This month, I challenge you to make room for Mary. Remember, the Rosary isn't a necklace or a keepsake; it is a powerful prayer that calls the Mother of God to your side.  Enjoy talking and learning from her.  She has so much she wants to share with you.

-Susan

 

Birthday Wishes

 

  My granddaughter has a September birthday.  She has been reminding me that it's almost her birthday since the beginning of summer.  "Of course, I know your birthday is almost here!  That's a very special day!  And who else has a September birthday?"

  "Mary!" she will answer.

  One day, she told me she had shared our conversation with another relative. That person told her, "Oh, we don't celebrate Mary's birthday; we only celebrate Jesus' birthday."  She looked sad and asked if that was true.

  "I celebrate Mary's birthday! She is my mother in heaven, and I love her!  I would feel bad if I didn't wish Mary Happy Birthday. I bet Jesus celebrates Mary's birthday.  I know it makes Jesus very happy when people love Mary, too!"

  My granddaughter smiled, "Yes, I think so too!"

  Don't let the day go by without wishing Mary a Happy Birthday!  Let your love for Mary show!  Spoil her with flowers, a bouquet of good works, or a joyful song.  The best present you could give Mary, is your "Yes" to God.  Mary is so happy when people say yes to God!  And be sure to carve out fifteen minutes of special time with Mary praying the Rosary. 

 I have a hunch that when Mary blows out the candles on her cake, her birthday wish is for everyone to pray the Rosary and give God their "Yes!"  Enjoy your day with Mom, and remember, her love for you is boundless.

-Susan

  

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary

 

  

  What a glorious day! Our blessed Mother enters through the gates of heaven, her soul as beautiful as the day she was created! All of heaven must have rejoiced as the sinless Mother of God approached the throne of the Almighty. Was all of heaven allowed to feel the Holy Trinity's immense love for Mary?

  I hope everyone makes the time to reflect on Mary's life and openness to God's Will. We are fortunate that Jesus chose to share His holy Mother with us. God lavishly loves us and gives us the very best—Mary. Let us show God how grateful we are for His gift by striving to be like our Mother Mary.

-Susan

Motherly Love

 

    As a mother, I find it ridiculous to state the obvious to my children. “Close the door so we don’t get bugs in the house. Pick up after yourself.  If a box is empty, don’t put it back in the cupboard.”  It seems silly that I would have to say these things repeatedly.

  Throughout history, there have been many Marian apparitions. Some have been private, and others are accompanied by miracles. Over and over, Mary has requested that we turn away from sin and love her Son. She wants the best for us. Mary, I'm sorry we haven't been good listeners.  It seems silly you would have to keep asking us to love God.

  Being holy isn't easy, but it is possible if we listen to Mary's gentle words of wisdom. I think if we were really honest with ourselves, we could all love God better than what we are doing right now.  Personally, I know I could do better. I need to close the door of temptations so I don't let sin in my house. I need to start picking up after myself. And I shouldn't keep my rosary hidden in a drawer or shelf. I should hold it in my hands and let Mary pull me as close to Jesus as possible.

-Susan

Come Holy Spirit

 

  It's a truly awe-inspiring coincidence that Pentecost falls in May this year, a time when we celebrate the profound connection between the Holy Spirit and Mary.  The Holy Spirit is not just active, but truly alive in the souls that hold Mary in their hearts. As St. Lois De Montfort beautifully articulates, 'When the Holy Spirit finds Mary in a soul, He flies to it.'  What better way to honor this connection than by praying the Rosary, allowing Mary to share her deep love of the Holy Spirit with you.

  Today is a very special day to acknowledge the presence of the Holy Spirit in yourself, the Church, and throughout the world. I was recently facilitating a Confirmation retreat. I encouraged the teens to pray to the Holy Spirit.  Praying to the Holy Spirit is not just a Confirmation thing or a Pentecost thing. Pray to the Holy Spirit every day. The Holy Spirit is the Divine person living inside of you.  Talk to Him.  Listen to Him.  Allow the Holy Spirit to inspire and transform you to be a disciple of Christ!

  The Holy Spirit is my closest friend.  He knows my thoughts, my fears, and my weaknesses, and he's okay with them because He knows that I can rely on His courage, wisdom, and understanding. I am a simple soul, but He guides me to deeper waters and enlightens me little by little. He constantly calls me to be more holy when my actions are disappointing. He heals me, comforts me, and opens my eyes to see clearly. Yes, he is indeed my best friend, and he would happily be yours as well. Just give Him a call.

-Susan

Leave the Details To Mary

 

  A few months ago, my sister-in-law surprised me with an incredible gift!  She had traveled to Mexico City to visit family.  She texted me, saying, "We will visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Do you want to FaceTime when I get there?"

  "YES!!" I replied. I was so excited! I had always dreamed of going to the Basilica. Although I was sitting on my couch at home, my sister-in-law reached out and brought me next to her side as we marveled at the cathedral's beauty. Tears flowed down my face as she approached the tilma of St. Juan Diego with Mary's miraculous image.  Mary is so beautiful!

  I have read books and articles on the miraculous image.  The world is still discovering all the magnificent details of this image of Mary that could not have been made by human hands. Scientists can't explain it, but no explanation is needed for those who love Mary. That is how Mary intercedes in her children's lives. She calls us to come close to the heart of Jesus and then arranges all the unseen details of our lives to help our faith bloom. Her love is imprinted on the threads of our lives just as it miraculously appeared on St. Juan's tilma! Listen to Mary, and you will hear Jesus' heart beating for you.

 May is the month we honor our heavenly mother. I suggest that you share her love with others. My sister-in-law reached out and allowed me to walk alongside her journey with Mary. I felt truly blessed to share this moment with them. So please, as you walk with Mary this month, invite someone to come with you. Don't worry about the details--Mary will take care of everything!

-Susan  

Encountering The Cross- Mary's Cross

 

  Mary stood at the foot of the cross.  She had no idea how she was standing because she couldn't feel her legs. The pain in her heart was so intense she could not feel anything else.  It was agonizing to be there, but this was where she needed to be. She wanted her love to cut through the mocking, the laughter, and the cruelty. Her love for her son was greater at that moment than ever before.

  Mary watched Jesus struggle to breathe.  She closely watched his chest rise with each breath.  She wanted him to keep breathing, but she knew each breath only prolonged his pain. The thought of him not breathing was unimaginable, but so was this entire scene.

 His breaths became further apart. Then Mary heard Jesus cry, "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit."  His head dropped to his chest, and His chest was still. Mary could feel in her heart that Jesus had left this world. Mary's heart burned with pain.  It was getting harder for her to breathe. The ground beneath her feet began to shake. Her eyes could not focus through her tears. "My son, my beautiful son," were the only words she could speak.

  The pain was so intense that her legs could no longer support her. She felt a strong pair of arms wrap around her to keep her from falling to the ground. As those around her supported her, Mary remembered Jesus' promise, "Mother, on the third day, I will rise." This promise gave Mary the strength to endure this unbearable suffering because Mary knew she could trust God's Plan.

-Susan

Reflecting God's Love

 

    During the Christmas season, I enjoy watching a movie on the Nativity of Christ. Most of the films are well done. But I have to admit, I am often uncomfortable with how Mary can be portrayed. There is always something off about her character. I have even been known to say aloud, "Mary would never say that, or she would never have done that." I have even stopped watching movies because they do not do Mary justice. It may seem I'm claiming to be an expert on Mary, but I will admit I'm not. However, I do know Mary. She is the most wonderful, caring mother I have ever met, and I love her dearly.

 It is difficult for an actress to demonstrate Mary's most extraordinary qualities. Mary's humility, love for God, and obedience to His Will are unmatched. Her holiness is so beautiful because she magnifies God's love to all. When I sit with Mary, I feel God's love. Mary never comes between me and God; she always nudges me closer. The thought that Jesus would share His Mother with me is a blessing beyond comprehension. 

 This truly is a beautiful time of the year to reflect on the birth of our Savior, followed by such intimate feasts as the Feast of the Holy Family and the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God. May the love of the Christ child shine brightly in your lives. As we gaze at Jesus lying in the manger, do not overlook the loving gaze He gives Mary and Joseph.

-Susan

The Little Moments

 

  I wanted to continue highlighting Mary again this week by sharing my conversation with my granddaughter, Isabella. Isabella looked at my roses when she approached my Mary statue. She looked at Mary and said, "GG, Mary would like one of your roses."

 I smiled as I went to find my trimmers. I cut off a pretty rose from my bush and handed it to Isabella. Isabella placed the rose on top of Mary's head. "There, that looks pretty," she said. She spent the next few minutes playing around Mary. Then Isabella announced, "GG, did you know Mary is thinking about getting her haircut?"

 "No, I had no idea," I said, smiling.

 Now, I can neither confirm nor deny that Mary was thinking about getting her haircut because, to be honest, I was not privy to that conversation. I thought about it, though. How many times did I have conversations with my own mother about hairstyles? Talking about hair is a typical mother/daughter conversation.

 I'm sharing this story not only because it makes me smile every time I recall it but also to encourage everyone to talk with Mary. Don't wait until you are in a crisis. Spend little moments with her every day. Like all mothers, Mary wants you to share your life with her. And she wants to share her life with you. I want to encourage you to pick up your Rosary beads and share with Mary what is on your mind, and then as you pray the Rosary, listen to what is on Mary's mind.

-Susan 

 

Clear The Path

 

 My youngest granddaughter, Angelina, likes to say hi and hug my Mary statue whenever she goes by. She also only cares about being barefoot in the summer. I saw her wincing slightly as she tried to step on the mulch in front of Mary. "Do you want to put your shoes on first?" I asked her.

 "No. I can do it," Angelina answered.

 That evening, I remembered her difficulty getting close to Mary. I decided to make the path to Mary easier. I removed some stepping stones from a different part of my yard and placed them in front of Mary. My granddaughter was thrilled the next time she came over. She walked right up to Mary, "See, it doesn't hurt!" she exclaimed.

 As we celebrate Mary this month, consider your path to Mary. Are there any obstacles preventing you from drawing close to our heavenly Mother? I find the way to Mary is the shortest, quickest path to feeling closer to God. I will run to Mary, yelling, "Mother!" and she grabs my hand and pulls me close to the heart of Jesus.

 The path to Mary is always sweet. I encourage you to take whatever stepping stones are necessary to be by her side. Also, if you notice someone else struggling to be close to Mary, do whatever you can to encourage them. Mary should not be our own personal secret weapon. Mary is the weapon God chooses to step on the head of Satan. If we desire a world with less evil, then clear the path for Mary. Perhaps, once this is done, we will look at the world and exclaim with my Angelina, "See, it doesn't hurt anymore!"

 -Susan