Have A Happy New Year!

Another year come and gone! If possible can I make a suggestion? An end of year is good time to re-cap. It's good to spend a few moments just thinking of all the major happenings or mis-happenings of the year gone by. This is not to praise any olympic standard records that we may have gained, or to torture ourselves in thinking of those awful and dreaded moments now gone by. The goal is simply to answer this question: after all experiences, can I honestly say that I'm a more complete human being? That's it!

After what we discover of ourselves, than let's realistically place some targets for the new coming year. We'll do it in a down to earth fashion and with generosity. At the next new year's, we'll repeat the process again and try to gain an insight of our personal progress.

This might seem somewhat clinical, yet we are ever more aware that one of our aims in life is to become better. Hopefully, better in becoming more like Christ.

Yarm's Message: Have a fruiful and happy New Year.

To Absent Friends...

To many, the Christmas season is not a time of rejoicing. For them, many of their loved ones are absent and too dearly missed! Without their presence Christmas is not the same... We forget that Christmas is more meaningful when prized people are with us.

When someone loses a loved one it can take a number of Christmases to make the loss more bearable! Christmas can appear to make absence more acute.

I believe that the love we exchange throughout our lives is never lost. Even though a physical presence is no longer their, we still can claim a heritage consisting of memories, experiences and love. These are even more important than material mementos.

I believe that despite the pain of loss, we have a duty to remember those who are no longer with us. What's more, we should do so respecting how they would wish us to remember them. In this way, we honour them and say to them that our lives were really enriched by their personality, goodness and love.

I believe that by remembering them, we still have them as part of lives. I'm pretty sure that absent loved ones would want us to continue to things as best we can!

To absent friends....

Yarm: ...gone or away but never forgotten.

See and Believe!

Even though we may have eyes to see, for one reason or another, we fail to properly perceive all that may be happening around us. Nowadays we are concerned with so many things that it influences the longitude and latitude of our global vision.

It also happens with our capacity to listen. Someone may be talking to us and we may be a million miles away. Being distracted from what's happening in the here and now is quite a common phenomena and happens to the best of us!

This implies that at times we are not in the best situation to notice things as they are occuring. Instead of a "live" event we may view situations "playback". Also, we may fail to perceive the reasoning or motives behind an action. We can have our eyes fixed on one thing alone and fail to spot all that surrounds us.

The point of all this: prior to making a judgment, or being critical of someone, let's be pretty darn sure of the whole event. Let's not make misinterpretations or confuse things with our own ideas. A good judge always recognizes the limits of his own scope of vision and acknowledges that things may not be as they appear. He will carefully analyze all judgments for any "foreign objects" that could render his judgment as false!

Yarm's thought: Whilst we must try to visualize things as they really are, it is even more important to use our eyes with love and compassion, otherwise I doubt if we are seeing things as they truly are! This I believe is the greater truth,

The Holy Family.

Joseph and Mary were specially chosen by God Himself. To their care was Jesus entrusted. They were to provide, care and protect the "Promised Child". Through all, God knew that His Son was in good hands.

The environment in which Jesus grew must have been conducive to Gods plans. This environment must also have been a reflection of God the Father's being and existence. This environment we call: Family.

The idea of family, especially as projected by Jesus, Mary and Joseph is crucial in meditating upon the Holy Trinity, the Church, our own families and society at large. The Holy Family gives an indication of the relationship between God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It serves as an example to the Church and Families. They show us how we are to live and interact.

Yes, the living together as family can be at times difficult but can we truly say that without the family we can become better human beings? It's when the structure of a family disappears, when mutual love and support are non-existent, that we experience even more difficulties and trauma.

It's within the family, that its members realize that they belong, are loved, needed and will be aided in their personal growth.

Yarm: Our human nature is both complex and delicate at times. The family provides for the ongoing growth in our human, material, spiritual development. This development does not cease when you're an adult, it's a life-long process!

The Christmas Gift.

On Christmas night
A star shines abright,
And darkness disappears.

Through the stillness of this hour
Breaks the Angel song flower:
With praises and sweet delight to bring.

Comes the promise of love incarnate,
Child of God for man has cometh.
In sweet humility salvation he brings.

A Shepherd's heart glows with ardour
as the Servant-King smiles to him.

A stable as cover, a palace it seems.
With Father and Mother
the Child gently sleeps.

Love now rediscovered
At last... the Good News we can give!

Accomodation Wanted!

Accommodation is sought for a young mother-to-be and her husband. The young lady is about to give birth so anything will be considered! The couple is moderate in means but can supply references from family and friends in their hometown. They are a God-fearing couple and well to do. The husband is a carpenter by trade and a most devout man. The future mother, though very young, has much promise! She's known for her kindness and care.

Because of their moderate income, they are unable to afford palaces, mansions or villas. A warm and generous heart is their desired option. Because of the urgency of the situation, they will dispense from any home comforts and amenities. They are very much determined in seeing this through.

It is known, from a good source, that the birth of this child, will bring a much welcome joy and life. Whoever welcomes this small family will derive many benefits. It is therefore recommended that applications are forwarded a.s.a.p. to avoid disappointment.

For more information dial: G-O-D D-I-R-E-C-T. All calls will be dealt with personally.

Yarm: Have a Happy and Holy Christmas. May the Child Jesus bring you love, peace and joy!

The Purpose of Religion?

It's fair to say, that I don't know what visitors to this Blog think; what you believe in; how you have come to your conclusions, etc... But when it comes to religion -a taboo subject- it would also be fair to say, that a religious person would have a set of moral values commensurate to the person's beliefs.

As I get older I see these values and beliefs as normative for any religion. The "sine et qua non" of any religion upholding a series of beliefs, held on faith, always points to a Supreme Deity that can only be surrounded by love and compassion. I find war, hatred, and greed antithetical to what religion is all about! Therefore religion can never, ever, be espoused to bloodshed, or force or even injustice! Religion by its very nature and purpose seeks to worship and glorify God. This is particulary highlighted in the prayer services that are held in Churches and temples around the globe. The buck doesn't stop here! Religion fosters an egalitarian and just society. And even more! Religion seeks a "fraternity" in all aspects of life.

Yarm: Are we truly aware of the implications and responsibilities of being part of a religion? What happens if a religion seeks conflict or forgets about love? Does it cease being a religion? How can the different religions bring about God's message of peace and love? How can religions help to make this world a happier place?

Review: "The Lord" by Romano Guardini

A simple browse through the major booksellers will list the many titles available on Jesus Christ. You will find all sorts of views and perspectives on the life, works and words on our God made man. The title reviewed today -"The Lord" by Romano Guradini- is not new in the publishing arena, in fact it was originally published in 1954 and republished on various occasions. Don't let this time-span make you think that this book is now passe, on the contrary! This book is still topical and contemporary. I suppose a good publication on the life of Jesus will always remain young and fresh to faithful readers. Yet, I marvel at the contents and admire the reasoning behind them. As Romano Guardini puts his points across you can most definitely conclude that here's a man who's thought and prayed his faith on Jesus to a depth rarely witnessed today.

After reading this book a couple of times, I can honestly say, that no serious scripture reader or scholar can not go without the train of thoughts from this great theologian and preacher. "The Lord" is accessible to everyone. What I find interesting here, is that Guardini wants you to pause and reflect on what he is saying. He challenges the reader to discover the sacred texts for him/herself. It's as if he has written a book to take you to another... Therefore, it's a book to take your time reading through. If possible, read it again. Many ideas will then settle in a much more solidified manner.

I certainly believe that Our Lord would like this book about Him! Especially in how Guardini sways the reader between the human and divine. The content of this book serves the great purpose of getting to know Christ even better! Yes, you might have heard the story before, but not in this light.

"The Lord" was written by Romano Guardini and is presently published by Regnery Gateway, ISBN 0-89526-714-4 (1996)

P.S. A special introduction is given by the then, Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger.

Guilt or Remorse?

We all make mistakes! We all sin! We all fall short of the glory of God! Most definitely!

We can all rectify! We can all ask for forgiveness and forgive! We can all have salvation through the blood of Jesus!

Everyone has feelings of guilt and remorse when we have caused some wrong; when we have omitted to do something or done it for the wrong reasons! We feel uncomfortable with ourselves. We may even wish for the power to turn back time and fix everything. All too easily we forget that our actions can have future consequences and repercussions.

There's also the question of the severity and degree of our wrongful actions. Some offences are extremely serious and grave!!! Much, much more may be required or impossible to tackle.

Still, there are some situations in which we can put our guilt into good use! I admit that there may be times when no words or actions can heal the damage done. There are other times in which a little love and tenderness can bring some sense into a situation.

Guilt warns us that something wrong has been done. It should also prompt us to correct ourselves and the situation. True, some situations, can be very difficult to recover from, but maybe not impossible! At least, in some situations, we can learn more about ourselves and study what caused the behaviour. If we wish to become more "Christ-like" we need to know what Christ what would have done and then compare it with our own actions. What I'm trying to say is, that we may need to go deeper into the action and examine the real cause! We may not like what we see, but we may be in a better position to become more whole. Guilt should also challenge us to modify all that is really wrong! Guilt should not get to stage of becoming pathogenic or weaken our resolution for amending our ways.


Yarm: Today's post may be a little deep, but guilt is worse, and much more confusing! It can apply to minor situations. This is a delicate subject for the rights of the innocent are also important!

Thank You... the magical words.

I came upon this site the other day: http://www.thankyoufather.com/. Would it be true to say that we sometimes fail to appreciate and thank our priests? Most of the time, we are critical about them. We disagree with their decisions and at times may not be very helpful in their ministry. We forget that as men of the cloth they have in a human way responded to God's call!

Thank you Fathers for responding to Jesus call.
Thank you Fathers for Baptizing our children.
Thank you Fathers for allowing us to unburden ourselves on you.
Thank you for your daily Masses.
Thank you for visiting and looking after the spiritual needs of the sick and the forgotten.
Thank you for my marriage.
Thank you for all that you do and for being there.
Thank you Jesus for sending these men!

Yarm's: Unfortunately there have been priests who have taken advantage of their position. We forget that the vast majority of them continue their ministry with generosity and love even under precarious circumstances.

The simplest prayer...

Unable to pray? Don't know what to say? Impossible to be still?

How about this very simple prayer: "Jesus". That's it! You will probably think that I'm pulling your leg. I'm not! Its one of the most beautiful and powerful prayers ever. It brings to mind the person behind the name. It reminds us of all his works and words. It is an acknowledgment that without Jesus we are frail and lost! Best of all, it means that we are in relationship and are loved by Him.

Just one final thing, "Jesus" means: YHWH is Salvation.

Yarm says: Jesus [no more is required].

Models, Celebrities and Rock-Stars!

It appears that society craves for example and direction. We say we want to assert our free-will and our personal tastes and preferences, yet, we make other people's style, and even their demeanour, our own!

It's the most natural thing to want to express yourself; to show to the world your personality and individuality. We may be a community but we are also individuals! What we can't do is believe the media hype that if you want to be like your latest celebrity, model or rock-star, you have to wear this or do this and that! If we don't, we are labelled as "not trendy, or unfashionable". I call this peer-pressure!

You might like someone or something. At times, the other person or thing can be in tune with your very own personality. Good for you if it is! But what we can't do is act as if we have no sense of direction or are totally insecure with ourselves. We then become prey of advertising and worst of all, we can become recipients of all sorts of peer pressure.

I admire those who stick to their guns and remain true to themselves, come what may. I value this strength of character and sense of self. Can we call this category of persons as real individuals?

Yarm's message: Each person is such a wonder! It's so important to be in touch with you own self. If we need models, how about models that provide goodness, support and especially hope!

Much Ado About Nothing?

Today, we complain much about the inherent difficulties in following Jesus. We mutter to ourselves that the Christian path involves many strenuous difficulties that can make us give up altogether or reduce our enthusiasm. Indeed, as we experience our journey we can face many stops, obstacles and pitfalls. This should not makes us conclude that "walking in the Master's Way" is impossible or not really meant for us.

That we go through all these negative experiences is part and parcel of the cross. These should highlight areas that may require a little more attention on our part. In a way, we should include them in our "To-Do List". We take them on board and examine what relevant action we can take. Yes, sometimes we have to prioritize the different elements in our spiritual life. I really don't find the thought of including one's spiritual life within a personal organizer far fetched, on the contrary!

Our calling involves responses: sacraments, prayer and works of piety. These three ingredients, though in a simplified form, form the bulk of what we are really about. If we exlude them, we will indeed experience that things are not quite right.

Yarms says: A "Spiritual Journey" always deserves a little plan of action. If we make a mistake, we recognize it and we continue -this is what makes us stronger, even if we feel weaker!

Friday, a day of Reconciliation!

Well it's Friday! I don't know if you feel the same way, but the liturgy and prayer for this day of the week always points me towards "Reconciliation". Of course, any day is a good day to make peace and the sooner the better! Still there's something about this day of the week that constantly reminds me of resolving situations; authenticating my Christian practice by seeking forgiveness when it's due; in fact, reviewing any outstanding issues arisen from the previous days of the week.

When seeking Reconciliation, I try to answer three questions:

1. How have I treated God?
2. How have I treated my neighbour?
3. How have I looked after my own physical and spiritual health?

Now comes the difficult part: Am I actually able to say "sorry"?

Yarm asks: Why carry excess luggage?

Europe... Union or Dis-Union?

European affairs are closely monitored by this blog. Anything that creates a sharing of peoples with culture, education, technology, trade, etc... is bound to benefit everyone in the long run. Yet, I find opinions on the EU varied -depending on geography, profession, income, to name but a few variables. Overall, even the advocates for greater unity and integration recognise one important element: ordinary European citizens are somewhat disillusioned with the organizational structure and benefits perceived.

I am particulary sensitive to religious issues, or the lack thereof, emanating from the European Parliament. It is difficult to digest that amongst a diversity of nationalities, languages, cultures, that religion, i.e. Christianity, is totally brushed aside. Has it become a "taboo" subject? Whilst there are citizens who prefer not to follow any Church or denomination, there are still, millions, who wish to continue following their faith and values. I wonder, at the parliamentary level, who represents Christianity in the EU? Are these millions of voices to be ignored? Shouldn't Parliamentary Procedure also take account of these opinions? Could it be that Christianity requires the adoption of certain moral standpoints which are incompatible with contemporary European thought? Therefore, with the "Christian Exclusion" are we nearer to a United Europe? My personal opinion: far from it!

Yarm says: We shall continue to perservere in our prayer for Europe. It's a shame, that just because I wish to follow my Catholic Faith, the European Union is not speaking in my language!

The Priests.

After listening to "The Priests" latest CD a couple of times, I must concur that it's a "thumbs up".... I was quite impressed with not only the accomplished voices of these three men, but also with the arrangements and overall presentation. I applaud their polyglot capabilities; ranging from English, Gaelic, Spanish and Latin.

Their renditions of Schubert's "Ave Maria" and the "Irish Blessing" are... magical! But all their repertoire duly deserves a recognition.

Our commiserations are also extended to The Irish Film Orchestra who's accompaniment can be classed as "bravisimo". The performance of the Choir of the Philharmonic Academy of Rome leaves no one in any doubt about their proven track record.

My real admiration about these three men is the witnessing of their faith, especially, yes, by their clerical attire. They have extended their ministry by music and song. Perhaps this is really their class act! Why? Because they have a purpose and a message!

The Priests are (from the Diocese of Down and Connor): Father Eugene O’Hagan of the Parish of Ballyclare and Ballygowan: Church of The Sacred Heart and Church of The Holy Family.

Father Martin O’Hagan of the Parish of Cushendun: Church of St. Patrick (Craigagh), Church of St. Mary, The Star of the Sea (Culraney).

Father David Delargy of the Parish of Hannahstown: Church of St. Joseph and Church of St. Peter, the Rock.

We wish them every success. Ad Multos Annos...

More Info: http://www.thepriests.com/home/

Yarm says: I love it when God's gifts are put into good use!

What's A Great Christmas Present?

I'm sure we all have our "Wish-List" which includes items that we would love to own. From the latest gadget to the trendiest in fashion there must be something that you are looking forward to get! We already have some sort of inclination as to what that great gift is going to consist of. But, as we let loose our imaginations with what great delights await us, permit me to put forward some questions:

1. Is this gift truly essential for me? Could I do without it?
2. Is it just me who's going to benefit?
3. Will other people loose out?
4. Is this gift beyond somebody's means?
5. Could it cause any division or alienation?
6. Will the gift remind me of the giver?
7. Will I receive this gift with the Spirit of Christmas?

Don't get me wrong! I'm not saying that we shouldn't give or receive presents -though many are not able! Let me get to the point: we are really throwing money away if we don't put some thought as to what someone else really needs. No wonder Christmas preparations are so hectic for so many! We want to get it right! But in order to do so we have to do our homework. For that, we need some clues as to the personality of the recipient.

Alternatively, do we get into a sombre mood because we didn't get what we wanted! Do we acknowledge the thought and love that lies behind a gift, i.e the giver.

There are many occasions for giving and receiving presents. But Christmas is different. We are sharing in a Spirit of generosity that is based on love. The amazement in a gift lies in the effort and concern that the giver has shown, or wishes to express. What's important is that you have been thought of. The point of gifts at Christmas is one thing: to realize that you are loved and wanted.

Yarm says: Don't just see the gift, see the treasure that lies behind the gift. That's the true present.

The Immaculate Conception.

Happy feast-day! Especially to those whose Patroness is the Immaculate Conception.

Today, it is all about standing in awe at the grandness of God's designs. It is realizing how problems are solved so that God's plan of salvation may continue. And it has! All of us can now take advantage of the great benefits and graces that God has provided.

Today, we can affirm: "the Divine is always possible!" Even if circumstances dictate that events may be humanly impossible, "...for nothing is impossible with God." God's creative hand can turn and overturn those situations which transcend our human reasoning or comprehension.

Today, Mary's holiness is celebrated as a worthy vehicle for the coming of our salvation: Jesus birth! Our Blessed Mother, since her birth, remained free form the blemish of sin: the Immaculate Conception.

You could think: "...that's impossible!" There I respectfully beg to differ. Mary has been highly favoured with God's grace; holiness begets holiness! What power, domination or authority can stop God's will? None! Remember, we have this tendency to think of God in human terms; God is Divine! Just because we don't understand His "modus-operandi" it cannot be discarded.

Yarm says: Hail Mary... full of grace!

The Scandal Of Our Times!

We hear a lot about the "Third World"; countries or nations that have not yet reached an adequate economic target. We also hear about "First World" countries; those that have reached a more advanced economic level. The "Second World" are mostly individuals who are not able to fend for themselves, e.g. immigrants in a First World country.

I am worried about the situation in the Third World, specifically with Zimbabwe. Now that cholera is rampant, the situation can only get worse. What I find scandalous is that the lives of so many innocents can be compromised as if they were totally expendable! I do not wish to insult or hurt the sensibilities of others, but this situation is utterly ludicrous and therefore unsustainable! I plan not to politicize, but definitely to humanize!!!!

I do understand that First World countries can adopt policies of "non-intervention", but I don't understand how can this loss of life be simply allowed. If I'm wrong I will happily retract, but I can only label this action as "Cain's Crime".

The thing is that many will blame God for doing nothing. I can only blame those who can do something to help these people and simply don't. What about the First World? Shouldn't we extend our initial definition to countries that have acquired a reasonable degree of "common sense" and "values"?

All I see here are men, women and children desperately trying to win an impossible battle; especially under these conditions. What harm can these poor human beings have done? Should we just blame "Kismet"? Are they collateral damage? Victims of being at a wrong time in the wrong place; victims of circumstance?

Yarm thinks: Let's also save ourselves by helping these human beings!

Motherhood of Mary

We will never understand Mary's role or her accomplishments if we disregard one very important aspect. Such that touches the inner depths of our human essence. If we choose to ignore it, I cannot see how we can even understand many important parts of our faith.

With Our Lady's Motherhood our own humanity begins to embrace the Scriptures and the "Promise". The experience of being a mother (not in my case), or of having a mother, and even of needing a mother, strikes a chord with the Gospel narrative about Mary's acceptance in the Annunciation and the Incarnation. Mary was to mother no mere child!

Our natural human instincts, especially the "maternal" in women, must be so mirrored in Mary's Motherhood! One wonders, if we disregard knowledge about our human nature, can we get a complete picture of Jesus and Mary? Can we truly understand the miracle of the Incarnation without understanding what humanity is, in essence? How can we discover what we are destined for, if we don't even understand our way of simply being, human?

Yarm's conclusion: Thank God for my own Mother and for all Mothers! They have given us not only life, but a better appreciation of Jesus through Mary!

Investment Time!

We are all limited to whatever time is available. I'm not referring to our life-span but to the amount of time we have remaining for all our daily activities. We have "work-time", "over-time", "family-time", "bed-time" and even "quality-time" to name but a few. These periods may be commitments that we may have entered into and are therefore obliged to keep.

We can sell or give our precious time according to our liking or needs; others can do the same for us, e.g in gainful employment, our employer buys our labour and time. What we can't do is create more hours in a day. We certainly know this fact! But we don't act as if the day consisted of a finite amount of time! We simply fill up our time-table as if it were a bag, until one day, it simply explodes!

Now, here's a concept that mostly everyone wishes to elude: "making-time". Make time for yourself, your partner, your family and friends, and even leisure. A lot of time may be required to keep our families, moreso if you're the breadwinner. They also need our personal time as well. We need to "spend-time" with close individuals who not only need us but love us.

How much time do I offer to God? Do I spend some time in quiet prayer and meditation? Can I just stop what I'm doing for a few moments and think about God or His Word? Or am I one of those who says: "Sorry can't stop. I'm in a rush. I haven't got time today!"

Yarm's Message: Spending-time with family, friends and those in need is the best investment.

Baby P

Dearest Baby P

No words can describe our feeling of sorrow and loss at your tragic departure from this life. Though we never met, this world is now a sadder place without you! Here we are, trying to put feelings into words, when you, yourself, were not able to put yours across.

How sad and disapointed you must feel. You must feel anger towards all of us; for none of us, were aware of you, or children like you! "To late now.." you must be saying. To that, in shame, I cannot respond. All that comes to mind is the phrase: "from the mouth of babes will come the truth."

The truth is now not benevolent with humanity; with any of us. Truth cries out: "How long till Baby Q?" How many have already passed and gone and still we don't learn. How many more precious lives will have to be lost?

We'll never know of what grand things you could have given us or what happiness you could have brought into other people lives... we will never know.

Maybe "P" could stand for "Promise". That your short time in this world and the loss of all children like you won't go to waste. It could stand for "Purpose", in providing a resolution to eradicate this total waste of life. Or "Protection and Prevention", for children like you require and deserve our total care.

I pray, that God's angels love and protect you always. May Mother Mary take care of you. May you now find the peace that wasn't granted to you in this life. Maybe and only maybe, we could always remember children like you by at last crying out: STOP!

Yours, with love

Yarm's


Yarm's Message: Help these children, please! http://www.nspcc.org.uk/

Money, Money, Money!

Nope, sorry, I'm not giving money away, I wish!

At least for the moment, let's be honest. Don't you just feel that money controls us and not vice-versa? Is money the source of our happiness or the root of evil? With the world's economies as they are, has money become the "life-force" of this planet Earth? All this talk about the "credit crunch" -more like a "credit mega bite" to me- does it warrant a re-appraisal of our pockets? Call it sarcasm or what you like, for a second I thought that human beings were the important factor.

Firstly, money does not have a life of its own. It is simply paper: a bank note; cheque or a bank statement. Money is a medium of exchange for goods and services, of giving and storing value. We give "money" its meaning, life, influence and even power, maybe even without realizing it. Money does not walk on its own, we tell it where to go and what to do. Let's dispel this notion that money has its own free-will.

We have a love and hate relationship with money. When there is an ample supply we love it and love everyone. When we are in the "red", we hate it! I know, without money we cannot survive. Yet, for no reason of our own, the quality of life we possess at one moment can be severely altered by causes foreign to ourselves. You may spend a lifetime working hard and in a second all your efforts or rewards simply vanish! How many work so hard for a mere pittance! Think of the millions who cannot access this store of wealth!

If the system isn't working for all, isn't it about time that it did? Now, who can people turn to? How can we make money work for everyone?

Yarm thinks: it's best to save some pennies for a rainy day! Take care... and don't spend too much.