Riding back from the Fullness of Truth conference in San Antonio several years ago, I could not help but reflect on the beauty of God’s wisdom in the design of family – troubles, temper tantrums, and all! It truly is the school of holiness.
I was able to witness families of all shapes and sizes come together as the body of Christ to worship, praise, learn, and adore Almighty God and have good clean family fun in the sun, the shade, and under the stars!
It was a blessing to see my husband meet, visit and even play with other Catholic dads. So often I forget how Holy friendships are more difficult for working dads to experience out there in the world, or more accurately, in the trenches.
It was so nice to see my older son, who really did not have to attend, want to attend a talk on marriage and have fun with other young men!
I was happy to see my teenage daughters have the freedom to roam and explore, helping me and other moms by supervising younger kids but still being able to laugh and be silly. Mostly, it was nice to see them praise and worship together – sitting just a little apart from us and little ones.
Of course, my middle and little ones only had fun with me, but I tried to soak it all into my memory and that special place we carry in our hearts! When my youngest lay on a blanket with me looking up at the stars and said, “Mom, I am having the best time,” it made me forget how tired I was and enjoy the moment.
It was also comforting to meet other moms in all different seasons of motherhood doing and being what God designed them to do and be! All of us understand that any attempt at a conversation could be interrupted at any moment, but we all know that is just how it is at many stages of motherhood. Only God can make you feel fed and drained at the same time! He is so amazing!
Having just completed the book Apostolate of Holy Motherhood for about the third time, it is still fresh in my mind and in my heart how blessed I am to be a woman and mother. How important and ESSENTIAL the vocation really is! I love how God can refresh me in my vocation in such simple ways.
Praise and thanks to the Lord of all, God the Father and the Holy Spirit! Sacred Heart family, may all of us remember to thank and praise Him in all things at all times! He is so good.
Author: Monica Hebert
