Divine Mercy

 

I painted this back in summer. In memory of little Ignacio, and I gave it my sister in my birthday, and for his celebration of life. It is Jesus' sacred heart, and with today being Divine Mercy Sunday, I wanted to celebrate with his mercy and his beautiful, pure, merciful heart. 

Today is the second Sunday of Easter, and we remember Jesus' mercy and love, as he embraces us and shows us his wounds (Thomas the Apostle). 'Jesus, I trust in you', as the phrase goes, and to continue to trust him in everything and with our very lives. 

A favorite book of mine highlighting Jesus' divine mercy, told by St. Maria Faustina who told the world about it in her diary. 

Sweet Memories

 When I miss my time in Monterey and Carmel, I often think of the little sights and excursions. The beauty and little treasures. I thought of the cute French cafe we went to and the nice ambiance. It stands out in my mind.

And the food, and the sweet tarts were delicious! I love the mural on the back wall too. 

And this mug brings to mind what I was experiencing internally last week. So true!

Easter Joy

 Happy Easter!!

The Gospel reading read today tells us about Mary Magdalen and other disciples such as Simon Peter and John finding the tomb empty and witnessing that Jesus had risen from the dead, as he said he would. There are some differences between the Gospels such as Luke and John. The version from the Gospel of John was used this morning.

"On the first day of the week, Mary of Magdala came to the tomb early in the morning, while it was still dark, and saw the tomb removed from the tomb... " 

This is Luke's version.

"On the first day of the week, at the first sign of dawn, they went to the tomb with the spices they had prepared. They found that the stone had been rolled away from the tomb, but on entering they could not find the body of the Lord Jesus... And they returned from the tomb and told all this to the Eleven and to all the others. The women were Mary of Magdala, Joanna, and Mary the mother of James..."

The subtle differences in language with 'early in the morning, while it was still dark' and 'at the first sign of dawn' were interesting to note. This morning I woke up before dawn while reading these passages, and then as it slowly got lighter, at the approach of dawn I thought and contemplated how Mary Magdalen and the others would have felt approaching the empty tomb unexpectedly. 

I was also thinking of Mary Magdalen and how she was with Jesus and his mother and John at the cross, staying with Jesus until the bitter end. A woman with her background, her sins and 7 demons entered into a life with Jesus, and peace, joy, and forgiveness were the effects.

 I don't think its sheer coincidence that she is used as a witness in these Gospel scenes . It showcases in her actions and attitude what God has done for her, a love for him and a spiritual transformation. And she was the first to witness Jesus resurrected and told the others in her profound joy and surprise. Jesus has immense love and respect for women, their mission and purpose in this world. 

I recently watched the other half of the film, Mary of Nazareth. (I watched the beginning parts right before Christmas). This movie does a wonderful job highlighting the events of Mary's life as well as Jesus's ministry. The transformation of Mary Magdalen is also pretty profound, her life of sin and despair to one of utter joy, peace and tranquility. Her make up and style of dress ultimately change, as well as her demeanor once she's united to Christ.

In the movie, right before the last supper Jesus meets with his mother and has an intimate and endearing moment of conversation before his passion begins. You sense her deep sorrow. In the background, it depicts Mary Magdalen and shows her pouring water for someone from a large jug.

 I thought this was very symbolic- the jar symbolizes our spiritual lives (as related from the woman at the well). And she is pouring water and happy to do so- she is giving someone water, but also giving what she has been given - Jesus' living water since she is now living a pure and converted life. 

This Easter Sunday and season, I want to contemplate more of Mary Magdalen and her witness to stay close to Jesus in his passion and agony on the cross, and her life and trust with him.

*My parents got married on her feast day- July 22nd. 

St. Mary Magdalen, pray for us. 

Jar from Carmel Monastery

Breathing Sea Air

 

I didn't realize the sheer beauty and majestic scenery Monterey and Carmel had. I only associated them with San Carlos Basilica and Mission Carmel, I hadn't really explored otherwise. What breathtaking views! And to be at the beach was gorgeous, something from a painting. The colors are unreal. And to just sit, contemplate and watch the waves, the birds, the dogs running on the beach was a relaxing adventure.

I didn't realize the number of beautiful flowers, vibrant colors, different kinds and especially lupines and lilies- I saw so many in various areas. I can see why so many people come to this area, and my sisters and parents for their honeymoon. It is truly a gem of place that leaves you in awe and takes your breath away. 

Similarities to My Dad

 I have been thinking recently about the similarities between my dad and me. For years, or at least a long while, I never really thought my dad and I were that similar (besides out height, some facial features and basketball..) since we are pretty much exact opposites. I always associated my characteristics and personality more closely with my mom, but actually until a few weeks ago, I saw more clearly some traits connected to my dad and see clearly that I really am a mix! And I am grateful to learn more and see these parallels. 

-Attention to detail

I'm not a perfectionist, but definitely an idealist. However, I am more detailed than some including my mom. My dad notices the tiniest differences and is aware of so much.  I notice things that strike as looking different than before and like to think of detailed things. I am also aware of a lot- sometimes hyper aware! This comes about more so in my planning, as well as for my creative writing and imagination.

-Very good and (overly) detailed memory, especially with dates

I get my strong and detailed memory from my dad, and I am blessed and grateful for that! I remember a lot of detail- a lot that is just extra, but somehow it still sticks. My dad is also especially good with dates from a calendar, events, birthdays, anniversaries, death anniversaries, etc. 

-Particular

I never realized how particular I am until I'm around someone who isn't. My mom is more flexible than me and not as particular, really not at all. I see that this side of me comes from my dad who has his preferences and is particular about things. 

-Thinking (even just a little) ahead

My dad is known for planning ahead into the greater future. I'm not a futuristic person, but I would say I am a planner in some ways. I also like to know what's ahead (near future) and be mentally prepared with little to no surprises. My dad is very much the same!

-Nervous about change, likes routine

Again, with knowing what's ahead, change is difficult for my dad and me. I actually like routine for the most part because its predictable and where I feel safe. I enjoy variety- but something that has a planned intention behind it. My dad enjoyed his work for many years and was used to the routine but change in the sense of more 'open' time and retirement has been good for him too. 

-Follows through what they said (hence: good memory)

My dad remembers so much and this also falls into what people say/said. I also can remember what people say and somehow my memory catches this as well. Perhaps its auditory memory and helps too since my dad is loyal and remembers what he said too. 

-Likes to wake people up in the morning (I'll explain)

My dad is a morning person (I am not) and is naturally an early riser. Ever since I can remember, he has liked to wake people up especially if there's a time constraint and that person is sleeping in and running late.

 I wake up earlier now than I have before in past years. And its easier for me to wake up others since I'm already out of bed and awake. I recall waking up my sister Susie  a few years ago if she was sleeping or if we had a timeline for an earlier Sunday Mass or something, then I wouldn't mind waking her up :)

When we were in Monterey, we enjoyed a really delicious Chinese dinner. When my dad got the check and signed it, I saw that his signature looked very similar to mine, not overly shorthand or sloppy but spelled out in cursive! What similarities we have!

A Good Break

 It is finally spring break, and I can remember a year ago well. I felt similar to how I do now- at my max of mental burnout honestly and so ready for a change. Last year, I went on a shopping spree at a thrift store, and it was fun and therapeutic, and what lasted for a few hours! My time on CM was soon ending as not much was happening, and I was starting to feel anxious. 

This year, March felt like never ending. The cold, wind and rain felt like a constant reminder that it wasn't spring yet, and there were still weeks before an official break. The daily grind was real, and having mental shift and strength was a constant thing to work at and endure. 

I feel that I have neglected some things. And a big part is inspiration and not always feeling like I have the time or mental energy to fully enter into the things I wanted to. There have been constant duties and demands with my classes as well. I was so excited and inspired with the warm, spring weather yesterday and with the start of April- finally a new month! I made a list but also things to do during my break. 

I have also neglected language studies- attempting to study 3 languages at once~ Russian, Brazilian Portuguese, and French. Maybe the idea is better than the reality, but it keeps me motivated and inspired. Thinking about a hair trim, since it's been a veryyy long time. I also have not printed out photos in a few years and have so many just stationary on my phone. 

As this week starts Holy Week, I want to enter more fully into Christ's Passion and slow down. That's it really, slowing down into a more prayerful mode, and a deeper reflection. The Bible in a Year is a great way to enter more fully into scripture and slow down. There is still so much I want to learn and growth with! Hopefully this break will help do just that!