"Stewardship of Life: Faith, Family, and the Purpose That Grounds Us"

There is nothing more important than being a good steward of the life I was given. Being born into the family I was (lots about that in my mother’s biography, More Martha Than Mary) and then having my own family, are pure, unadulterated gifts from our heavenly Father. My faith path, dedicated to Jesus Christ and his example, is the only thing that got me this far without going crazy, falling into depression, or just plain giving up.

My immediate family, my wonderful husband Mike and our two amazing sons, Jeff and C. Jay and their families, are a reflection of God’s love for me. I am absolutely blessed. They are a constant reminder of how one can never be alone if they truly believe they are a gift from God and very much have a purpose in this life. I know many people struggle with finding purpose, a life path, and also struggle with emotional issues of lack of self-worth or ability to be a valuable contributor to the world. I have always wondered if these were somehow rooted in a lack of faith. But I don’t know. I am no one’s judge or jury. I have not walked a mile in your shoes.

Writing my mother’s memoirs was confirmation that she too survived on faith, and just barely, in many cases. We are all human; we are not perfect. Therefore, her weakness at times, and my weaknesses (more often) are to be expected and applauded. It makes you feel real.

I wish I could convey to others how very important it is to get out of your self and become self-less, serving others, finding the good in others and celebrating life and nature. This to me is better than any drug, infatuation, or earthly pleasure. This viewpoint allows me to explore creation, appreciate talent, and express and receive love. 

All things lead to our creator, and as I get older I am almost haunted by the idea of seeing Him face to face in all his glory and in my humbleness. The truly fascinating thing about seeking eternal life in heaven is that there is nothing we know of on earth that could even begin to describe it. Saints before us have told of this: How wonderful, ecstatic, and ineffable forever with our loved ones and the Holy Trinity, saints and angels, can be. If we all just lived every moment with this in mind, the world would be a better place.