If you don't do a lot of penance - or even if you do - get yourself really sick.
So sick you can't pray or rest or sleep or eat. So sick you can't even think a good thought, except to recall this or that in your life that makes you moan or regret or feel so ashamed that you can't even hide it.
I'm not kidding.
When you finally get a lucid moment, you will not care what anyone thinks or says about you or anyone else. You will not care about controversies regarding the pope or the president or anyone. Your faith will be clarified, purified another degree.
Be grateful.
I think I'm going to throw up now.
Being sick does narrow down one's priorities. I pray you will feel well soon. BTW, our mutual acquaintance, Fr. Patrick, is having a transcatheteric aortic valve replacement on Monday. if you can, send a prayer his way--in between nausea bouts.
ReplyDeleteLikely that Fr Pat will still be in hospital for the start of lent. Prayers offered for a good recovery...
Deletehttp://www.themedjugorjewitness.org/matters-of-the-heart
Terry, as you say, a purification process... prayer said.
I'm so sorry you're feeling poorly - an understatement, I'm sure. Maybe it's time to see a doctor.
ReplyDeleteAll will be well. Be assured of many prayers for your well being. Stay hydrated as best you can and yes, maybe you need to get a ride to see your doctor.
ReplyDeleteHoping you do!
God bless you, Terry dear.
ReplyDeleteThanks Elena.
DeleteI am so very sorry you are feeling awful Terry: fevers are surprisingly difficult to endure and can lead to 'transcendant' experiences...out of physical desperation. I am sure you feel weak as a kitten, and that Gabby is tending to you with gentleness and much love !!
ReplyDeletewhat ? this sounds as if I believe spiritual experiences are not real when brought about by severe illness etc.; not what i meant at all...
Deleteon the contrary...L
when we are 'brought low' often it is just then that we become Aware of the spiritual love/assistance always about us.
Thanks Consolata. Gabby is taking care of me. She comes in and yells when she needs something. She just cracks me up - she is so loud.
DeleteI love it when cats yell at their peeps. and, of course, we leap up to do their will.
Deletevery funny cat video on you tube: hey cat. hey
Terry, I baked five loaves of persimmon bread this afternoon. I went outside first and enjoyed the beautiful blue skies as I took in the fresh air. I said a prayer foy you today hoping you are on the mend.
ReplyDeleteWere you my neighbor, a nice cafe con leche with a piece of fresh baked persimmon bread would be brought over to you provided of course you were no longer nauseated.
Take care now! 😆
Thanks Yaya.
DeleteDear Mr. Terry, I'm sorry to read that you're sick. I hope you feel better. I've stopped by for some advice. Maybe when you're well you might be able to tell me if you or your bloggers know of a monastery in New York City where my gay friend can visit for a retreat. He's content with being actively gay but he's miserable and has decided to go back to church. I don't want to send him into another gay experience, I want to send him to find holiness and redemption. Thank you, I miss you and Adrienne! <3 Belinda
ReplyDelete