On the other side of the tomb

Lent was especially beneficial and a rather easy spiritual practice this year. I toned my Lenten practices down this year, to the dismay of my more dedicated friends, because I wanted to actually carry them through the entire Lenten season and make a gift of myself to the Lord instead of failing miserably after two weeks. It was very rewarding and humbling to pass on my small gift to the Lord whereas my past failures are only humbling. Perhaps I haven't learned the humility lesson yet, as I blog about my exploits, but it was a great gift from God to learn a different lesson for a change even if it ultimately turned out to be a painful one.

The lesson this time around was, "Easy Lent, hard Easter". The Octave of Easter was exceedingly difficult because joy would not come. My job was torturous, life was hectic, my civil leaders were ignorant if not downright malicious and I was a regular Mr. Grumpypants. My understanding of joy has deepened to the realization that joy should be present at all times. No matter if the situation is a happy one or a sad one, whether it is a beautiful Vigil Mass at my parish or watching the government destroy the future of my children and grandchildren, joy should be lived because the Lord of All has conquered death and He welcomes us into His eternal abode.

Working on an Easter post...

Until then, read my humble Magyar.

I am a Free Press

Since the major media outlets have not picked up on the protests surrounding tomorrow's tax deadline, I will report them here.

The TEA parties are actual grassroots protesters who detest the wasteful government spending in recent memory. Like me, they are frustrated with the massive bailout that was hurriedly passed by this Democratic House and President. Like me, they are also frustrated with the gigantic bailout passed by the previous presidential administration which opened the floodgates to the socialization of the banking system. In short, we know that we can spend our money better than the government. For example, I am trying to start my own business and potentially invest in real estate, while keeping my 401k growing. Any money the government gives me, goes to these ends. Instead, the government doesn't even trust me with an $800 stimulus all in one shot so they disburse it throughout the year.

So much for middle class support that was repeatedly promised in the campaign.

Rejoice, He is Risen!

What a blessed Triduum! We made it to Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and the Easter Vigil. I'm lovin' our parish even if the liturgies still couldn't adhere to all of the rubrics (Is it so hard to find 12 men to get their feet washed?). Due to our participation as teachers in RCIA, I had a small connection to the newly baptized and confirmed. The reborn always fill me with hope and give me a chance to repeatedly quote Chesterton. "Here comes everybody."

I wouldn't have it any other way.

Perfect Weather

Stunningly, the weather forecast was correct and it is a rainy, dreary Holy Saturday. Fortunately, I think that is the best way to commemorate this day in the tomb with Christ. I had a moderately successful Lent, although I picked rather small sacrifices; I gained more spiritual insight than the Lents where I tried to do everything. I believe I offered Christ the best I could and it was humbling to realize how little I can offer. I know the Lord appreciates any gifts, just like I appreciate my girls' clearing of the dinner table, no matter how much of their drinks they spill on the way into the kitchen.

My weather forecast for tomorrow....Sonrise! (rimshot)

I know, its a terrible joke but who can resist?

No Pics here!

The Joy of Catholicism
A book review of "Holy Sex - A Catholic Guide to Toe-Curling, Mind-Blowing Infallible Loving"
by Dr. Gregory Popcak

I was intensely curious about this book, not only because of the edgy title, but because of a sincere desire to help devoted Catholics have excellent marital relations. Dr. Popcak covers the subject well, answering most reasonable questions and concerns about moral, marital intimacy along with some outliers. He gives a few examples of conflicts and how they can influence a couple's attitudes and feelings in regard to the most intimate aspect of their relationship. That is when the book is at its best, sharing real stories of practicing Catholics. The "Catechism" side, if you will. Unfortunately, the "Joy of Sex" side is a bit too explicit for my taste, though I imagine it is vastly more modest than anything in the Relationship section of my local Barnes & Noble. For a difficult subject, Dr. Popcak did a good job but this still isn't quite the book I was hoping to find. However, I gained enough valuable insight to have no doubt that his next book will make it to my shelf.

Contract with Catholicism

Always glad to cheer for someone who just finished the toughest swim in the world. The Tiber is a difficult river to swim; there are rapids, rocks, and a dizzying array of voices encouraging you in both directions. However, given the general decline of Christianity in America, it's good to see transfusions of new blood into the Body of Christ.

My Heroes

Although Heroes has been somewhat disappointing in its predictable plot lines (X-Men, anyone?), I still find myself hooked. Partially this is due to the fact that the Heroes often have some questions about God and argue about the issues a bit. Also, lines like this will keep me watching:

"You're not a hero, you're just a politician."

In an era when people seem to be getting more and more prone to idolatry of the government or certain leaders, it's great for a prime time show to rip the mask off this lunacy.

Reporting on Ourselves

Since the media feel free to ignore massive national protests, we have to record and distribute ourselves. Check out Thine Eyes for a promo of a DVD on the March for Life. Tell me if you see me, I'm the one in the fedora.

Prediction: Media are Fools

I'm writing this at 8:30AM to contain my prediction that the news media have been fooled by a "virus" that is supposed to shut down the Internet today. I wish they would do research and learn what a "prank" is. I couldn't believe their coverage last night. But kudos to whoever thought that this type of juvenile joke would still garner attention. Sometimes, I just love pranksters for point out society's idiocy.

Another YouTube discovery

It's amazing what I get the hankering to unearth on the Internet. I recently had Final Fantasy VI pop into my head and remembered that I only saw Saban's desperation attack or limit break in later jargon. A quick YouTube search revealed a nice little video of all the character's desperation attacks.