Memorial Day always brings outthe virtue of patriotism for me. When we used to live in Alexandria, Va. we would attend Mass at the Immaculate Conception Basillica and then go to the Arlington Cemetery to honor those who gave their lives for us.Three years ago on Memorial Day week end my husband got called back on active duty. Many people, including our pastor, questioned our reasoning for this decision. Yes, my husband had already been retired for 5 years; yes we had a family of 5; yes, I almost died after the last baby from a double pulmonary embolism. But as we discussed this option of him going, we both knew in our hearts that some of our young soldiers were on their 2nd and 3rd tour overseas protecting our lifestyle. And we knew that if we could simply keep one husband or wife from spending even more time away from their family then it would be worth the sacrifice.
Was it hard? It was the hardest 2 years seperation I have ever had to endure. And yet, it also was the most enlightening time I have ever had as well. When my husband left, I made the intention that I would spend time getting to know Jane - really getting to know myself and accepting myself for who I am.
In Louis Marie De Montfort's classic Total Consecration to the Blessed Virgin Mary Spiritual Exercises, the first ten days are spent getting to know yourself. For if you don't know yourself, you can't know your Creator either.
What I discovered is that not only am I loveable and worthy, but I have many gifts to use to better this world. And I discovered that it is OK to take care of oneself first before your husband, before your children and before your household duties and serving in the community. As the flight attendant always reminds us in an airplane; "Put your mask on first before assisting others. "
Toward the end of this journey not only had I grown in ways I didn't think possible, I was introduced to a business where not only do I have the opportunity to continue my personal growth, but I am rewarded monetarily for being the example for others to what is possible.
And what I am finding is there is freedom in allowing yourself to truly become the best version of yourself. YOU are at cause for your life - not your family, not your job, not your government - YOU. And until each one of us takes a good hard look at the fact that we are 100% responsible for EVERYTHING in our lives then we will never have the courage to truly make the changes that are necessary to achieve all our hopes and dreams.
If you are ready to take a stand for your own freedom, come visit me at my website: www.wealthyhomeschoolmom.com
Make it a great day! YOU deserve it!
God bless you and Mary keep you close to Her Immaculate Heart
Jane
