Max and the Marines

    Earlier this week, John and I traveled to Jacksonville, NC to drop off our son Maxim at Camp Geiger (part of Camp Lejune).  He completed boot camp at Parris Island, had some days of liberty (probably too many), and was reporting to the School of Infantry where he will be for nine weeks. 

    Max had been searching for a life focus for a number of years and feels like he has found a home in the Marines.   He is a changed young man who now has direction, drive, and discipline.  We are so thankful for that.   Of course, we worry that he may end up in the middle of World War III, but know that, because of his training, he will have a better shot at surviving it than most of us.  We are praying for him and ask for your prayers too - for strength, for perseverance, for safety and that he may guard his integrity.  Thank you.

 

A Blessed Feast of St. Francis to you!

 

Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, Assisi, Italy - Photo source:  Jennifer Gilroy 

Some years back, John and I visited Assisi and the great Basilica of St. Francis.  The remains of the saint are interred in the crypt. I lingered in that crypt and whispered a quick prayer.  It was a very stressful time, I was working two jobs and most of our kids were still at home.  The prayer went something like this, “I’m struggling, Lord, and could use some help.”  As I knelt, words came to me –“Do what makes for simplicity and peace.”  How Francis-like.  I have returned to these words frequently when attempting to discern direction.  What makes for peace in this situation?  What needs to be cleared away so that simplicity can come to the fore?  On this feast day of St. Francis, I share these words with you.  May they bless you as they have blessed me.