It’s funny how the simple things can leave you flat on your face. One time it was my boots. Another time it was a job. This last time it was the recent snow and cold snap that jarred me. God uses everything to deepen our love for Him, ourselves, and our neighbors.
While on our honeymoon to Medjugorje, I was humbled by my boots. We thought we were doing the right thing by praying intensely while there, however, God wanted more…humility.
I packed everything to dress nicely for our three-week trip, including dress flats and heels. I forgot, unfortunately, to bring gym shoes to wear to climb the mountains. Instead I packed uncomfortable, unsteady, and hot boots. They were no match for the jagged edges of the upright boulders that make up Mt. Krizevac (or Cross Mountain, as it is known by Americans).
Pilgrims climb the mountains in prayer and penance to Our Lord. We went up almost daily, so the trek in these boots was penance in itself. I cried angry tears at one point, upset that I forgot my gym shoes. The good Lord showed me the way to start my marriage was with a humble heart. My boots were just one instrument He used.
Later in life I prayed for a much-needed job to finance my children’s Catholic tuition. I finally landed a one at a daycare facility. Ugh! I did not want to work in daycare. I wanted to be a teacher’s aide or substitute. I did not like wearing the required scrubs; I hated the nine-hour days; and listening to crying children irked me!
Again, my pride was in full-swing. I tried to bargain with God, “I’ll pray more. I’ll be kinder, just get me out of here!” The Lord must have laughed from heaven. After a time, I liked my uniform. I got used to the hours. Finally, I began to have compassion on these little children who cried for their parents. I prayed with them, rocked them, and sang to them. This is where God needed me!
Finally, the recent January cold snap was like a slap to my soul. Massive snowfalls, followed by -35 degree wind chills, deflated me. Digging out, checking on my parents, and driving in snowy and frigid weather proved too much for my temperament.
Again, I was humbled. After spending long hours stuck inside and watching television, I became angry and slothful. Each day seemed like more of the same.
Again, God used this. We are not greater than the weather, I realized. After a time, my family which is too independent began to play cards, say a few prayers, and cook meals together. Instead of brooding, I should have written a letter, called on my neighbors, or got to know my children better.
After a while, I looked outside at the stillness of the snow. Maybe God just wants us to slow down, I thought, and smell the roses. The Christmas season demands a stillness, a quietness, to sit and relish the miracle birth of Our Lord.
I should be rejoicing, I thought, instead of griping! I sang songs of praise and spent my long hours praying and thanking God. Mary did not throw a huge bash when Jesus was born. St. Joseph did not blow trumpets to the world. However, in that tiny stable, I am sure they pondered this miracle in their hearts. We need to slow down and do the same.
Copyright © 2014, Mary Mitchell
Mary Mitchell
Mary Mitchell, from Chicago, is a devout Catholic who likes to mix the divine truth with humor. She thinks it's the only way we can get through this life! Mary is the mother of three and has been married to her husband, Philip, more than 20 years. She has attempted to live the vows as a Secular Franciscan for about 20 years, but has a long way to go.
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