Ash Wednesday

I do not make resolutions at New Years. I start thinking about Lent then...so it's been almost 2 mths I've been pondering what I am going to do this year.

I am focusing on a few areas. Some are to increase my spiritual life. Some are for penance reasons. Some are to gain things and to lose other things. It is a time to reflect and refocus. To see where I can improve and what things I plan on continuining.

This year I have decided to pray more. I want to try different types of prayer.
I have a devotional book to follow.
I want to get a copy of The Way and The Dolorous Passion.

I want to give more to others. My patients at work. It has become work...a job. Not something I enjoy. I want to reconnect with why I chose nursing and incorporate it into my spiritual journey.

I want to slow down life and enjoy the moment.

I need to re-evaluate my wants vs needs. I am planning on not going on Facebook or blogging. It takes up too much of my time and is a want...not a need. I want to take that time and focus on more important things.

I also am giving up chocolate. Need some type of penance!

My best friends sister died suddenly late Friday night. She was 33. She was the mother of 3 small children. We had no warning, no time to say good-bye. It was over in the blink of an eye. I guess you just never know what life holds.

I remember the last time I saw her. I wish it had been different but I can't change the past. I remember all the things from all the years I've known her (I've known her since she was born) and take joy in knowing that she had a good life and is with God now.

I am praying for her dad...who lost his wife not too long ago. For my best friend and her 2 brothers who all lost a sister. I am praying for her husband an 3 small children. I am praying that Sarah is in a greater place and that everyone will find the strength to carry on and realize that Jesus is here with us to help us through this.



Prayers After Death

Saints of God, come to her aid!
Come to meet her, angels of the Lord!

Receive her soul and present her to God, the Most High.

May Christ, who called you, take you to himself;
may angels lead you to Abraham's side.

Give her eternal rest, O Lord,
and may your light shine on her forever.

Let us pray.

All-powerful and merciful God,
we commend to you Sarah, your servant.
In your mercy and love,
blot out the sins she has committed through human weakness.
In this world she had died;
let her live with you forever.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord.
And let perpetual light shine upon her.
May she rest in peace.
Amen.

May her soul and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God rest in peace.
Amen.