July 5

I trust I don't have to repeat the litany of issues we are all facing these days...and it might not be over. Just last week, a 7.5 earthquake hit Mexico. Then, the next day, a 5.8 said hello to central California. Do any of you really want to rule out The Big One hitting California this year? (I'm not saying I want that to happen, I have many dear friends out West.) The point is - 2020's rough start might just turn into a rough year.

I think it is very important for all of us to ingest a few specific words from Sunday's Gospel reading: “Come to me, all you who...are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”

Like a cool breeze of ocean air in the midst of this hot summer.

Fact is, like the Footprints poem of old, God has been carrying us through this from the start. And I firmly believe one does not diminish struggle by pointing out blessing - so here are some blessings that I've either seen firsthand (or have been communicated) to me.

- A renewed appreciation of the Mass and our religious freedoms

- Increased time with family

- Increased time on the phone or video calls with distant loved ones

- Reduced vehicle emissions and cleaner skys

- Cleaner beaches

- A reminder to be grateful for everyday we wake up healthy

- Gratitude for simple pleasures like a coffee shop or a movie theater

What other blessings has this time of trial brought to your heart? Share them with me!

Questions? Comments? Email David at dlins@oloj.org.