Make Someone Smile

Below is the weekly note to St. Pius X families sent 4/30/16.  For those that do not have children at St. Pius X, each year, our 8th graders go on a school trip to Washington DC.  The story below is just one of the many great things that happened during the trip.

 

We are back.  The 8^th grade students and staff have returned from out yearly trip to our Nation’s Capital, Washington DC. I believe a fun time was had by all, and I especially had a great time. 

This is my seventh Washington DC trip with students.  I have seen it all, done it all, and probably have enough information to pass a certified tour guide test.(yes, tour guides have to pass a test)  Getting on the bus to head out, early Tuesday morning, I wondered if there was anything new and exciting I was going to see, and looking at the itinerary, it did not appear that was going to happen.  But then, the good Lord did not let me down.

I have seen every monument in DC.  These wonderful structures celebrate the lives of many great people in American History.  Millions of people grace the National Mall to see these fabulous structures and pay tribute the lives of these most influential people.  

There are also monuments that celebrate those that have given their lives so we can live in a Democracy.  The World War II memorial, the Vietnam War Memorial, and the Korean War Memorial, celebrate the events that took place in United States History, that have shaped our Nation today.

It was not until I was in the Korean War Memorial, that I witnessed something different.  Let me set the scene…

I am with a group of 8^th grade boys and our tour guide.  It is getting late and we are tired.  The tour guide is explaining the history of the memorial and the reason it is the way it is.  As we were about to exit, one of our boys noticed an elderly gentleman and his daughter walking in the memorial with a hat that said Korean War Veteran.  Right then and there, a student reached out his hand and thanked the veteran for his service.  This handshake was unsolicited by any of the adults.  Next thing you know, all the boys are shaking hands and thanking this Veteran for his service. 

After we all had a picture with him, we started towards our next monument.  I decided to go back to the daughter that accompanied this Veteran to ask some questions.  As I was approaching this Veteran, he was embracing his daughter and crying.  I waited for this moment to end, for you could tell that the veteran was emotional.  After asking his name(Charlie) and where he is from(Arizona), his daughter, with tears in her eyes, stated that this was the first time her father had ever been thanked for his service.  It was truly a special moment that no monument could ever explain.

I share this experience, not because I want to get into a debate on the ideals of wars.  I share this experience because our boys did exactly what God would want them to do.  They took a moment to say thank you to someone, for something, that up until the past few years, they knew nothing about.  Our boys took it upon themselves to make someone smile. 

Imagine a world today that focused on making someone smile, instead of tearing them down.  Imagine a world today, where we do unto others for the sake of their well-being, instead of our own interest.  I have to imagine if a world like this existed, then there would be no need for war.

Am I Like Judas?

 

 The blog this week is from the weekly note that I send to the parents of St. Pius X Catholic School.

 

 

The Gospel at this week's school Mass was the story of Judas Iscariot betraying Jesus.  For 30 pieces of silver, and a simple kiss on the cheek, Judas presented Jesus to those who wanted Him crucified.  In Fr. Jim's homily, he asked the question, "What was going on in Judas's life that would make him want to do this?"  Kind of makes me wonder, as well.  Fr. Jim's question got me to thinking...  In what parts of my life have I been more like Judas? 

 

Was Judas greedy, and given an offer he could not refuse?  It forced me to reflect on the times where I could have been more giving of my time, talents, and treasure.  What opportunities did I overlook helping another with my time?  Was there an opportunity in which I could have donated some money to someone in need and instead I looked away?

 

Was Judas jealous of all the attention Jesus was getting?  Remember, the townspeople were laying palm on the streets as Jesus entered into town.  So I wondered, when was I jealous of a colleague?  When was I jealous of something a friend has, that I wish I could have?

 

Was Judas afraid for his life and given an alternative to betray Jesus or die?  While I have never been in a "rebuke Jesus or die situation," have there been times where I kept my thoughts and feelings of faith to myself, in fear of retribution?  Have there been times where I missed an opportunity to evangelize the Good News out of cowardice?

 

This list could go on and on because, and as I often say, "I am a sinner, striving to be a saint."  There is, however, one thing that I understand, that maybe Judas did not.  No matter what I do or say, no matter how often I act more like Judas, Jesus will always forgive, if I ask.  While Judas was a witness to the forgiving heart of Jesus, maybe his heart was not in the right place when he decided to betray Jesus, just like my heart is not in the right place when I think of myself instead of helping others.  Every time I am like Judas, I know that all I have to do is seek out God's forgiveness.  As we enter into the last few days of Holy Week, I pray that I will recognize situations and choose to act like Jesus and not Judas.  But if I don't, I hope I recognize the errs of my ways and recognize that I need God's forgiveness.

We Have it All Wrong

The following is from my St. Pius X Catholic School principal's weekly note sent to parents.

I wonder if we, and by we, I mean the society we are living in, have it wrong.  A couple of weeks ago, St. Pius X Catholic School had their Everybody Counts program.  This program celebrates the differences in everyone, regardless of abilities, looks, skills, or talents. 

The day’s events consisted of many guest speakers.  We had a father talk about his son’s battle with childhood Leukemia and a father shared his story as he battles a brain tumor.  Some of our students got to experience what it is like to be blind or hearing impaired, while others got to experience what it is like to be in a wheelchair.  Other classes got to participate in programs with adults who have a low cognitive ability.  All in all, it was a terrific day and I am so humbled by the way this program shows each person’s individuality and diversity.

I am a little upset with myself that I have fallen into the traps of society.  I feel that our society is trying harder and harder to “level the playing field.”  We want everyone to have the same exact opportunities and we try so hard to make children’s life experiences exactly the same, regardless of their talents or abilities.  If we were all the same, then I would be a pro golfing, football throwing, slam dunking, presidential candidate, all while owing my own restaurant, eating fabulous meals, while teaching at Harvard, not to mention being the greatest father, husband, etc….  Is it just me, or does this sound crazy?

Through the Everybody Counts program, my eyes were opened.  Everybody was put on this Earth with a purpose, a plan from God, and I knew this, but after falling into society’s trap, it took this wonderful celebration to remind me of how we are all a truly unique gift from God.  If I were to be an NBA star, God would have given me the talent to play the sport at such a high level.  If I were to be an engineer, God would have given me the ability to understand largely complicated math equations. 

I think we all have the dream scenario of what our world should be.  My dream scenario would be to not have to celebrate the differences of everyone, because everyone would understand that God’s plan for them is unique.  The scenario would be that everyone understands we are all different and we are accepted because of our differences, not our likenesses.  We would not take for granted the unique ability God has given us, or spend our time trying to be someone or something we are not supposed to be.

Do you know what makes you unique?  Do you know your God given talent?  If you do not know the answer to these questions, spend some time in prayer, asking God for guidance.  Be prepared to put aside your version, and listen for what God has planned for you.  If you do know what makes you unique, then spend some time praying and thanking God for the many graces that come from your purpose.  God has made us unique in some way, shape, or form, and for this reason, Everybody Counts.

 

Are my fears my children's

My brother has an incredibly irrational fear of roller coasters.  He has such a fear of them that he never goes to theme parks.  I once invited his son to an amusement park and I quickly realized that my nephew has an irrational fear of roller coasters, and it is my guess that this fear was instilled from his father.  It was then that I started thinking, do I have a fear that I have instilled on my children? 

I must say that I am lucky enough that I will try almost anything once, whether or not I think I am going to like it, so at the early stages of my children’s life I do not think I have shown them a fear of any kind.  However, there is something that I have not taught my children and it is something I have failed to lead by example, and could be considered my fear.

Over the next couple of weeks there are four opportunities, here in the North Deanery, for us to receive the Sacrament of Confession.  Confession is, without a doubt, my least favorite of the Sacraments.  It is my least favorite because it is a time that I have to share my weakness towards sin.  It is natural for ones in a leadership position to do everything in their power to not expose weakness, so I think this is why it is hard for me to go to Confession. 

Now do not get me wrong, I do go to Confession during Advent and Lent, as we are supposed to do.  While I should go more often, I at least go during the two most important seasons of the liturgical year.  And I must say, as much as I dread going on my way to church, I cannot believe how much better I feel the moment I have received absolution.  The feeling of joy that overcomes me is better than any thrill ride at an amusement park.

I tell you this story of my own struggles because although my children do not know how I feel about Confession, for I always go to the service by myself, I am not showing my children that I go, and by proxy, instilling on them a fear they do not even know.  I am sure most everyone believes that parents are the first and most important teachers of our children.  When it comes to faith, it is especially important that we, as parents, lead by example.  Sending our children to Catholic Schools could be all for naught, if we as parents do not take on this important leadership role.

I cannot believe I am the only one that fears the confessional, for if I was, the lines for Confession would be much longer.  So, for me, I will be taking my children to Confession and leading by example.  I will pray that God gives me the strength to overcome my fear, and not instill it on my children, so I can be a better example to them. 

I ask that you consider attending one of the four confession times with your family.   Take this opportunity to lead by example.  I pray for all those that have the same fear of the Confessional I have.  I pray that God gives them the wisdom to understand the graces and mercy that come from this most blessed Sacrament.

OOPS!! It is Lent

The blog this week is from the weekly note that I send to the parents of St. Pius X Catholic School.  Every week this note contains important dates, events, and a short note from me. 

I am not sure if I am the only one who feels that the Lenten season raced upon us from out of nowhere, but I cannot believe I am the only one…  We have had two days, Ash Wednesday and the first Friday to practice fasting and abstinence.  Only three days into it, and I have already screwed up.

Being out of school on Friday for “winter break,” is a first for me.  I cannot recollect any time, as a student or teacher, that I received an extended break in the winter, with the exception of the blizzard of 1978.  So this new concept had me racking my brain as to what I am going to do with the extra time.
 

I promised my wife that I would get up early and take our children to school.  This would allow her to go to her Indianapolis office straight from the house, without making stops.  Then I would come home, and accomplish any “honey-do” chores she would like me to complete.  And, being the planner that I am, I had my day scripted out to the letter/task.
 

Well as luck would have it, I was at the preverbal stopping point.  I had just moved a load of laundry from the washer to the dryer, completed said cleaning task, and was either ready to start the next task, or take a break for lunch.  As you can imagine, lunch prevailed.
 

As I proceeded to prepare my plate, I decided for a sandwich and chips, with a glass of iced tea, while watching a little of the Pebble Beach Pro Am Golf Tournament.   As I was watching the golf tournament, the camera operator decided to show a picture of the ocean, as they often do for this tournament.(side note: for those that do not watch golf, I suggest you watch this tournament some time, for you will see some of the most magnificent marine life) 
 

Let me set the scene, the camera angle was from the blimp, flying overhead.  It was a wide screen shot showing this incredibly large school of dolphins.  There were so many dolphins, that they could not fit on the screen.  This beautiful picture got me thinking of dolphins and those that sometimes get caught in tuna nets.  This led me to think of the fact that it had been a long time since I have had a homemade tuna sandwich.  This led me to recollect that every Friday in Lent, growing up, my mother always made tuna sandwiches.  It was then, on the second bite of my turkey sandwich, that it dawned on me that it was Friday and I should not be eating meat.
 

Well, it has been a whopping three days and I have already put my own thoughts before God.  My wife thinks it is rather funny, since I am the one constantly reminding her of the Friday Lent rules, especially since she is the one that packs our children’s lunches, that I have already failed in the abstinence portion of Lent.  I mean the ashes are barely off my head and I have forgotten my Lenten obligations.  It was immediately that I split the remaining turkey sandwich into two parts, one for each dog, all was upset with myself about my error.  I am usually better than this.
 

As my thoughts progressed, I was reminded of the reason for the season of Lent.  I am a sinner, and there is nothing I can do about that.  I will always be a sinner, for I will never be perfect.  God knew this and sent his only Son to die for our sins, so we may have the gift of the Sacraments and eternal life with Him. 
 

So instead of punishing myself too much, I choose to forgo the rest of my lunch and I used this fasting opportunity to think about God and all He has done for us.  Regardless of what I have decided to give up, or what rules I break, or what sins I commit, God will never deny me forgiveness, so long as I ask.  His Son died so we may receive forgiveness of all sins, even the smallest.

Fasting for 40 Days and the Gift That Came With It

Today, we celebrated the Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent.  For the next 40 days, Christians are asked to fast, to participate in Almsgiving, and generally use this time to remember the 40 days Jesus was in the desert and tempted by Satan.  What does that mean for us as Christians?

Over the next 40 days, we, as Christians, are asked to sacrifice something that is important to us.  Over the years, I have given up soda, chocolate, coffee, and one year I gave up drinking anything, with the exception of water.  I must say, drinking only water for 40 days was a pretty hard thing to do, but the task was completed.   That Easter, I went to midnight Mass, just so when I left, I could grab a Diet Coke on my way home. 

 

This was the hardest Lent fasting I had ever had.  Every time I drank water, I reveled in the thought of drinking a Diet Coke, an iced tea, a coffee, anything but water.  I planned my route home from church and picked out the corner store that I was going to go to and purchase anything to drink, other than water.  I even thought about packing a cooler, so I could return to my soda drinking ways, but I thought it would look bad to tailgate in the church parking lot, on Easter Sunday. 

Every day, I thought of nothing more than drinking anything but water, and as the days went on, 10, 20, 25, 30, I grew more anxious to drink anything.  To hydrate with a Diet Coke, or a cup of coffee, was almost to the forefront of every waking moment.  The closer it got to Easter, the more excited I got.  It was no different than a child waking up at five in the morning Christmas Day.

So it is Easter Eve… I have waited for this time, what seems like forever, but really was only the 40 days.  I spent all day looking at my watch, over and over, hoping time would go by quicker, so it would be Mass time.  I can assure you that this day was the earliest I had ever been to an Easter service, and not to save a seat, but in hopes that we could get this Mass started and over so I could retrieve what I told myself I could not have.  I have built up 40 days of craving anything other than water, and it is all about to come to an end.  That’s when God took over…

You see, when I left that Easter Mass, I did not tailgate in the parking lot.  I went home a different way, than I had mapped out.  My craving for a flavored drink was gone.  What happened??  Why did this all the sudden stop on Easter Sunday?  I could not believe what was happening to me. 

It was on my drive home that it dawned on me, every time I craved something other than water, I would spend some time talking with God.  Sometimes I would ask Him for help through the craving, sometimes I would shout at Him, in anger, and sometimes I reminded Him that I was doing this for Him, the least He could do is help me out.  Giving up something for God, and not wanting to disappoint Him, was the reason I resisted every temptation.  It was exactly the plan He had in mind for me.  I got closer to Him, through prayer, which at the time, was a weakness in my faith. 

Now when times get tough, I often will drink water, just to remind myself to have that conversation with God.  Sometimes, when I drink water, just because, I thank God for the wonderful gifts he has given me.  Something as simple as a glass of water, is one of the most important parts of my prayer life.  That 40 day fast, five or six years ago, has affected me to this day.  I did not just give something up, as I still drink flavored drinks.  I allowed the fasting to get me closer to God, it changed me.  So as you are fasting this Lent, be open to God and His plans for you.

Prayers for Principals

The blog this week is from the weekly note that I send to the parents of St. Pius X.  Every week this note contains important dates, events, and a short note from me. 

It certainly has been a difficult time for the communities of Park Tudor and Lawrence Township.  Please remember to keep both communities in your prayers as they deal with the trying times.  Death of friends, family members, and people that have special meaning in our lives is difficult. 

 

The loss of someone special often times leaves a feeling of sadness, or what we perceive to be a void in our life.  We wonder how things are going to be the same without them, or wonder what we are to do now.  A special tradition, the weekly calendar event you had planned, are now void of this special person.  What are we to do now?

 

When my father lost his wife, my mother, he lost the love of his life, his companion, and his bridge partner.  I truly thought he would never play the game of bridge, a game he was very good at, and loved almost as much as he loved my mother.  How was dad going to fill his life?  The way my father coped with the loss of his wife, was a true inspiration and great lesson for me.

 

You see, my father, through much grief and prayer, decided to honor my mother and continue to play bridge, even without his life-long bridge partner.  My father took time to teach his siblings, my mother’s siblings, his nieces and nephews, how to play this challenging game.  Not only that, but he chose my mother’s aunt, who lived in a nursing home, as his new  bridge partner.  He played bridge with my aunt Mary, every Tuesday evening, every week, for many years.

 

My father chose to honor my mother, an elementary teacher, by becoming a teacher and teaching what he knew so well.  He chose to continue to share his love for my mother, by continuing to take an active role in her family and doing what my mother would do, if she were still with us.  What he did not know is, that by his actions, he has taught me to cope with a loss, by remembering and honoring my mother in such a special way.

 

I ask that you keep the communities of Park Tudor and Lawrence Township in your prayers.  Pray for those who are affected by the loss of Susan Jordan and Matthew Miller.  Pray that God give them the strength to deal with the loss, and that He give those grieving the wisdom to remember both of them in that special way.  Pray that God give them ideas to honor them and fill the void left behind.  Park Tudor and Lawrence Township, you are in my prayers.