Author: Maria

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May the Fourth Be with You

Star Wars fans celebrate May 4th as Star Wars Day thanks to the clever word-play with the franchise’s iconic commendation, “May the Force be with you.”

Catholic fans used to respond with “And also with you.” Somehow, the new translation doesn’t have the same feel, “And with your spirit,” but we’ll let it ride…it works. Whatever you do, don’t respond with “Live long and prosper.” Let’s keep our cultural quips in the right setting.

The impact of Star Wars, and the widespread acclamation of Star Wars Day has spread beyond the bounds of geekdom. My mom, who’d rather watch a good murder mystery, loves C3PO. I don’t think she’s ever actually seen any of the movies.

So what’s the allure of these films?

At its core, Star Wars illustrates the battle between Light and Darkness, Good and Evil. It hits us in the archetypal feels.

Sure, there are great explosions, fantastic battles, fun and interesting characters. And it’s a gift that keeps giving. I mean, who doesn’t love Baby Yoda? But it’s also a beautiful story of redemption and love. A story about discovering one’s identity and purpose in life and seeking something greater than ourselves.

At its core, Star Wars illustrates the battle between Light and Darkness, Good and Evil. It hits us in the archetypal feels. Share on X

The bottom line is this: good prevails.

We love these stories because we can live vicariously through them. In fact, the hero’s journey is our own spiritual journey. We are drawn to these narratives as models for our own lives. We experience the things that make us human: loss, fear, yearning, temptation, friendship, commitment, and sacrifice. In the end, we learn the value of hope.

I’m happy to celebrate today. In an era increasingly nihilistic, George Lucas gave us A New Hope.

May the Force be with you!

I explore our connection to these heroic stories and characters, especially Rey and St Clare of Assisi, in Super Girls and Halos: My Companions on the Quest for Truth, Justice, and Heroic Virtue.

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Mayday! May Day!

How are y’all doing in this weird transition to getting our lives back after long weeks of self-isolation and quarantine in the wake of COIV-19? I know there are many challenges for all of you. I, too, have been deeply and personally challenged. I’m grateful that my family has been blessed with good health in the midst of disruption at many levels.

Rather than focus on the distress call, mayday, I look to the fun and signs of hope that come on May Day. There are many traditions associated with this day, whether it is observed on the 1st, or the first Monday of May. Most of them have to do with flowers, and that’s fitting, as so many gardens are now coming to life after the April showers.

red knock-out roses
red knock-out roses

Most of these celebrations have roots in pagan holidays celebrating spring, but as a Catholic Christian, today marks the feast day of St. Joseph the Worker. I love St. Joseph, even though this appreciation has come late in life. His quiet low-key presence in the faith led to my ignoring him. Now as a wife and mother, I recognize what a powerful intercessor he is for the Church, but also, and perhaps especially, for the family. For my family. A day doesn’t go by that I don’t ask St. Joseph for the protection of my family, as he so faithfully protected his holy family.

Today also begins a month-long celebration of the Blessed Mother, the Virgin Mary. This month is traditionally dedicated to our heavenly mother. I’m so sorry we won’t have a procession this weekend to crown Mary. I have many fond memories of those May crownings from my childhood, and later, with my children. I think I’ll make a little crown of flowers from my garden and crown the little statue I have at home. I’ll share that later, and will invite you to do the same!

This month is traditionally dedicated to our heavenly mother. Share on X

Finally, Iet me encourage you to do a little bit of spiritual reading about Mary this month. There are so many good books to read on the subject. I’ve reviewed many on this blog, including these Marian themed books here and here. You might also be interested in my book, Our Lady of Charity. In fact, I’m offering a limited number of signed copies for sale here!

Whatever you choose, I hope you’ll come back here and share what you read. Happy May Day!

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3 Things I Learned from Otis

Otis, our lab/pit rescue, is named after Otis Redding. Or the elevator. Or a cabernet sauvignon. Choose the narrative that most appeals to you. He answers to Otis, and that’s important. Frankly, Otis answers to anything, so what’s in a name, after all?

He’s a noble pup, a good companion, albeit a bit clingy during a thunderstorm. He’s also pretty obedient though he barks at the neighbor too much. He also exudes great wisdom if you pay attention.

LOVE ABUNDANTLY

Otis just needs the hint of an invitation to jump into your lap if you’re watching tv. This is quite a feat for him, and dangerous for you. There’s not a lot of graceful movement in a 70 lb. dog when he wants to plop down in your lap and get in your personal space. When he finally settles down, I admit he’s a cozy companion.

Otis loves his humans with abandon and shows it as soon as he sees his friends. His favorite way of showing affection is to lean into you hard and then fall dramatically to the floor for a belly rub.

We should all greet our loved ones with such joy and affection. Hugs are great, but if you’re not a hugger, receiving friends with excitement lets them know you’re happy to see them and is always a winning ticket. Belly rubs might be out of the question — use your best judgment.

TAKE NAPS

This doesn’t need a lot of elaboration. Naps keep you fresh. They melt away crankiness. They while away the time, in case you’re bored.

Otis is a master of finding the one spot in the house where the sunbeams are warming the floor, and settling in for a long nap. He follows me outside every chance he gets, and if he isn’t running around the yard, he is usually splayed in the grass, soaking the sun’s rays.

If you haven’t tried this, I highly recommend it. I prefer a comfortable lounge chair, but there’s definitely something soothing about taking a nap in the sun. Don’t forget the sunscreen.

STOP AND SMELL THE FLOWERS CRABS

In fact, stop and smell everything. Taste life. Look for the beauty in the world around you. Otis is fascinated with everything — from the lovely flowers to the slinky slugs. He stops at everything to investigate, and rarely disturbs it.

This is my favorite lesson. The dog is pure joy and a model of contentment.

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