The turn of the calendar page brings us a new year full of hopes and possibilities. People around the world make resolutions to better themselves in some way. Promises to lose weight, save money, end bad habits resound. This year, my resolution is to be a better wife and mother.
The better wife thing makes sense, I'm sure. But better mother? That may sound incredibly strange, since my husband and I do not have children of our own. But we are incredibly fortunate to have our niece, nephews, and godchildren near.
You've heard the old adage, "It takes a village to raise a child". As an aunt, godmother, and teacher, I am a member of many different villages and am tasked with helping to raise respectful and loving citizens of the world.
Of course, I already knew these things. But it became abundantly clear during mass on the Feast of the Holy Family. This is a Sunday when we celebrate the perfect example of family that Joseph, Mary, and Jesus gave us. My family sits on the second row at the same mass that we attend, and I happened to be leading music this particular Sunday.
During the homily - or sermon, for my non-Catholic friends - my darling 3-year-old niece decided that she wanted to sit up front with me. She climbed onto the pew, scooted up close, gave me a big smile, and pulled my arm around her shoulders. Ah, my heart melted into a puddle!
At one point, she looked up at me and whispered, "Is he (the priest) talking about Baby Jesus? When He was a little boy?" An innocent question from an innocent child, but it struck me as the most important question I could answer. I am called to guide this little darling, all my little darlings to Christ. Tough job, but somebody's got to do it, eh?
This job is not specific to parents and teachers, however. Any person with any connection with children is a member of their village! We must all strive to become better examples for our babies!
Most Reverend Thomas J. Olmsted, Bishop of Phoenix said, "If we are going to take back society, we must first take back the family." In 2016, join with me in taking back the family.
Happy New Year, everyone!
P. S. - Bishop Olmsted has written an exhortation entitled, "Into the Breach" that I recommend reading. It is addressed to Catholic men, but his words apply to all believers. Find it here: www.intothebreach.net/.