Faithfully Observe The 2008 Season Of Lent

I was out and about all day. As I headed home I realized it was time for The Mass of The Lord’s Supper. I turned left and not right to go home. I went to Mass. I walked into church and a friend of mine was organizing those people who would have their feet washed by the priest. Twelve are chosen. He was short three, I was wearing sandals. I was chosen. It was a very special moment for me. This was the church I had left for a variety of reasons. This was the one Priest in the whole valley I could not seem to get along with. We have a love/hate relationship. And on this night he would wash my feet. I will admit here that I am vain. I have had staph at this point for nearly three months. On order of my dermatologist I am not allowed pedicures, painted nails or to shave my legs. AND I am about to have my feet washed by a man who has stated to others that he can’t stand me. We are now in each other’s path, an interesting crossroads. Healing is an amazing thing and it comes when you least expect it and in the strangest ways. As Father knelt to wash my foot I reach over to hold his forearm. Our eyes met and there was a wonderful smile one for the other. The irony of the moment was not lost. Deep Breath! God is Good.

I went to Mass at a Church close to home this Sunday. I’m making my life simpler. I’m trying to use as little gasoline as possible. What a wonderful discovery. It was so prayerful. There were even people I knew. One woman came all the way across the Church to give me a hug. I think I found a new home. Nice gift!

Even though I am still a mess with staph. I covered my wounds and went to Mass. I did not touch anybody and I did not sit near elderly or children. In my mind I walked around saying Unclean, make way for the Unclean. I wanted so badly to receive communion. This was a youth mass and the music was so prayerful and meditative. I’m very happy I went. The Gospel was the story of Jesus being tempted by the devil. It ends with the angels coming to take care of Jesus. The priest spoke of the need for self knowledge. And, recognizing we don’t know what we will do until we are in any given situation. I have had this “plague” for over a month. I’m weary. I would like for the angels to come and just spell it out for me. I am willing to learn the lesson, I just need to know what the lesson is. And if the lesson is learn to love the question…..well…OK!

I went to Stations of the Cross tonight. I had forgotten how very prayerful that can be. It was a wonderful meditation.

I was hugged tonight by an old enemy. We made peace. His hug was genuine and loving and I received it and returned it with just as much care. Thank you God for wonderful miracles.

I ate only vegetarian today.

No meat today. Some fish and I did fast until dinner. I can’t fully fast as I used to when I was younger. I need to watch the blood sugar balance. So in fact, I obeyed the medical rules for myself better than usual.

I did not go to Mass and get my ashes. I didn’t feel it was socially responsible yet to be in public.

I did read a considerable about of scripture and inspirational readings this morning.