Today was the first day in a few weeks that I've gotten to go to mass. A couple weeks ago, all the bus routes were on snow routes, and it would have been close to impossible to make it up to church; last week I was sick, and doing everything I could to get better. It was lovely going back, and the homily was on the section of text in Matthew that can be summed up by the Golden Rule. The priest was quick to point out that though the text talks about loving our enemies, that doesn't just include those groups of people far away in distant lands that wish us harm, but rather, includes family, friends, and anyone who you've given the power to hurt you.
Today has thus been a big day on reflection of my faith, since I've really not thought about it recently. I'm Christian, but do I live my life that way? The problem I've found, unfortunately, is that those that I know who openly talk about their prayers and how God is working in their lives are also the ones who have the sharpest of tongues, and cruelest of actions towards others. The moment I hear someone start discussing their prayer habits, I've now learned to keep my distance, because if I let them too close, they'll hurt me. It's a terrible conundrum. But, on the other hand, I have a friend who doesn't talk about it, but goes to church every Sunday, and prays every day, without fail. They don't mention it, and don't state that every one of their achievements is only thanks to God. I have outrageous amounts of respect for them.
So what does this mean for my faith? I guess it's that I don't want to talk about it very much. This probably will be the most in-depth look at where I stand currently on a public front. I want to learn to pray more. I want to learn to live my faith in a quiet way. I don't ever want to be another poster child for why Christians are cruel people who are openly hypocritical by thanking God in one breath, and tearing their acquaintances apart in another.
Meanwhile, work is stressful, due to the time of year, and still being understaffed. On the upside, there's an in-house competition going on related to subscription renewals, and as of this weekend, I'm in the lead by nearly two thousand dollars. I jokingly called it an asinine competition last night, but as the reigning champion, I'm a little more inspired to work towards that first prize. I mentioned to Chris that it might mean a steak dinner sooner than later if I win!
I've been sick for weeks. I'm either on round two or three of being sick, and I've forgotten what my voice sounds like without nasal congestion. (Don't get me wrong, I've taken decongestants...barely any change) I'll probably go back into the doctor again this week, considering it's been over a week since I was prescribed antibiotics, and I'm still under the weather, now with horrible headaches. I've never been so glad to have health insurance.
In spite of all the craziness, I'm still pretty happy with life. I have a roof over my head, food in my stomach, and a means of transportation, as spotty and somewhat inconsistent as it can be. I'm looking forward to getting my face back in shape for horn, as being sick has inhibited my practicing for the last week or so. Time to get through the coughing, considering I have a concert coming up soon!
'Til the next time,
Allison
