Slowly getting back to normal

I am gradually getting beyond the upheavals of the last month - including Dad's death - though there is still much to do with his estate and bills.

My prayer life is beginning to become more like it was, though I am still not there. It did seem counterproductive that when I needed prayer most, I was too tired, too distracted, too lazy, to do what I really needed to do. (Guess that shows I'm not a saint!)

I've even restarted my Secular Franciscan readings. I will make it to the meeting this week.

One tidbit in passing.

While reading a biography of Pope John XXIII, I came across a brief mention of his becoming a Secular Franciscan back on March 1, 1896. Years later in an address he said, "Allow us to add a special word from the heart about how many of those here present belong to the peace-loving army of St. Francis. `I am Joseph, your brother.' With tenderness we love to tell you so."

With the deaths of so many in my family, it's nice to have spiritual brothers like Pope John and my fellow Secular Franciscans.