The Odyssey and The Idiot

It may be time to talk a little about my book, as I look back at prior postings, in my little part of the cyber-blog universe. What a tiny, minuscule part I play in the greater existence. This is OK, as long as my time here, either writing the blog, my next book or my life, are keeping my eye on the prize: my Lord. If I can go to my end knowing I did this as best I could, I should go contentedly. What a tremendous gift that will be. I hope I get it. I sincerely hope we all do. I wish this for all of you, even before me.

As I look over what I have written before, I see a pattern: keeping my faith strong, my desire to reflect Christ and my wavering. Until I started writing the blog, I had no idea how powerful an entity (s) this was in my life. I had no real reason to look that closely. As I tried to find out more about my faith (as God willed for me): Scripture, Sacred Tradition and the Church's Magisterium (the rules), I have been really learning what is expected of me and how to judge my efforts. I have learned more about my religion, outside of the basics I already knew, than I could have imagined. Why did God have me go through this experience? I don't know the answer, but I am happy I did and continue to do so.

When I was let go from work some years ago, I had time on my hands, needless to say, and I took a road trip with my kids (The Odyssey). What happened on that trip, above and beyond the ports of call we visited (The real Odyssey), is the central theme of the book: what it is to be a parent, how to be a better one, looking at the gifts sitting in the backseat (my kids) and where God was in all this. The Idiot was because I can be a little slow at times.

Isn't it funny, while I was in limbo, meaning I wasn't going to church too much (I hate to say this, but virtually no one could stand the new priest and folks left in droves; and I regret it), I don't recall ever doubting for a minute that God would protect me and mine and I would be vindicated completely. Isn't that funny? I knew less, and believed, without doubt. There is something great about approaching the Lord as a child, in a sense. I knew God loved me, though why I couldn't put my hands on ...

You know, I am a genius ... he said sarcastically. I found God in a million places on my trip and I thanked Him many times during it (and before and after). Gee, how could I show my gratitude to Him, who gave me all things? I could love him totally and believe in Him completely (as I detailed in my book).

And, I could learn more about my faith, what is expected of me, and what to do about it. I could work in a homeless shelter, something I would have previously found appalling. I could visit a nursing home and kibitz with the patrons while they played Bingo. I could pick sweet potatoes, if I were so inclined, to fill a food pantry. I could become a stronger disciple.

Now I ask you: how truly stupid am I? I have asked, above, why I have gone through this religious awakening? And here's the answer, right here. The payback. Not only for others, but the blessing it has become for me.

I want to thank the folks who suggested I start a blog. Had I not done this, I wouldn't, in all likelihood, have seen the forest for the trees.

Keith, I love you. Now show you love Me.

Had He not asked me to learn more, I wouldn't have known how to repay Him. It may not have occured to me, though not out of malice.

I will, my Lord. Now and forever. Look at what you have given me, a sinful, petty soul you knew was worth reaching. I am blessed beyond belief. I knew this, but now more than ever.

God bless,
KJPrice