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That Time I Confessed My Sins in Knock, Ireland
Today, a young man from Ireland sent a kind little word about a post in my Instagram stories. It was a quote from John Paul II: Shout out, David, if you’re reading this! I have to tell you, this young man’s honest words about the struggles he has had with his faith, after all the scandals in Ireland is hard to bear. And yet, after our own “summer of scandal”, I feel like I understand a little bit about how he is feeling. So many people disillusioned with the Church — and who could blame them? We had an amazing experience in Ireland, but I’d be naive to think that…
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You Are Not Enough — But That’s Okay, Because Jesus Is.
The phrase, “You are enough” has become a big catch phrase that has blown up social media and Christian circles for the past year or so. Honestly, I was kind of sold on the concept — that is, until I wasn’t. Please don’t get me wrong. I don’t mean to attack all those good people out there trying to help, especially women, to accept themselves for who they are. The problem is that, like many slogans, it all depends on what you mean. Yes, God made us good. Yes, He made us in His own image and likeness. So, in that respect we are enough and are worthy of being loved…
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Nobody Puts Mary in a Corner
Last week, I was sitting in Mass trying to pay attention during the homily — and failing miserably. I just couldn’t help myself from thinking about that famous quote from the oh-so-popular-and-yet-so-awful movie, Dirty Dancing. That famous line of Patrick Swayze, “Nobody puts Baby in a corner” just kept popping up in my head. The struggle is real, people. Those of you who have no idea what I am referring to, you must have had a very blessed childhood — for the rest of us, I’m sure we can agree it was hardly the place for that memory. At least I could be comforted by the words of St. Teresa of Avila…
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Hiking the Cliffs of Moher… a.k.a That Time We Almost Died (Twice)
If we knew then, what we know now, we likely wouldn’t have made the hike up to the Cliffs of Moher. Don’t get me wrong, it was breathtakingly beautiful and invigorating and every step made you appreciate the grandeur of God’s creation. I mean, look at these views! Granted, there was a wee bit of danger involved — eventually the only thing separating you and your kids from a 700 foot drop to the ocean was good sense and a little bit of skill. Truth be told, we did almost die once on the hike — though some on our adventure claimed it was twice — so reservations when undertaking…
