Colegio Espíritu Santo - ¡Damos Gracias con Nuestras Vidas!

This week I learned that my beloved high school, Colegio Espíritu Santo in Hato Rey, Puerto Rico, will close its doors tomorrow after 80 years of faithful service. Like so many thousands of alumni, I was shocked and saddened by the news. As I reflect on the implications of this closing -- along with the closing of tens of other outstanding schools on the Island -- I realize this is a sign of the times, and bigger than any one of us. Yet, the overwhelming gratitude I feel for our Espíritu has kept me focused on the future, and how we can honor the treasure we received through superb education of the mind and formation of the human being. 

A small group gathered this morning at the school in solidarity and to sing our school hymn, and I was able to join via live transmission. It was special, and I'm so grateful I could be part of that moment that helped bring some closure to us all. I could barely sing through the tears, and was glad to end the song with our traditional cheer, ¡Espíritu, fuá! 

I can't imagine all the ways my life would have been different had it not been for the blessing of Colegio Espíritu Santo. I may very well owe my strong faith to this institution and the many teachers and inspiring nuns who instilled in me, beginning in third grade, not only a deep, abiding faith and trust in God but also a discerning mind and spirit. My strong prayer life and desire to live a life of service are rooted deeply in Espíritu, our teachers, and the various organizations to which I belonged there.

The blessing of an academically solid bilingual education with a strong foundation of faith, truth, and hope are incomparable gifts. I am forever grateful to my parents for driving 30 minutes in city traffic each day to get my brother and I to school all those years!

I learned to love theater and dance even more through our professionally planned and executed talent shows, for which we became known all over the island. I also experienced the blessing of true community, something desperately needed in our world today.

As the author of four books, I am so grateful for the class where I mastered speedy typing! And who can forget the 'torneos' we'd host and staff faithfully (concessions, anyone?) and the away games we'd join regularly to cheer for our teams and friends!

My friend group -- such exceptional human beings -- are still in my daily life more than thirty years later. What would life be like without each of you, my dear friends? I can't even imagine it. I love you ALL, whether we remain actively involved in each others' lives or not. I love each of you as the family you are!

Finally, I join all CES alumni in expressing our immense gratitude to EVERY teacher who invested in our education and in our lives. Some of you were quite literally lifelines during some of our toughest times in life. Your investment in the formation and lives of young people has left an enduring legacy of love and excellence that will continue to bear good fruit down the generations. 

We LOVE you -- our amazing teachers -- and we are GRATEFUL for each of you. Thank YOU.

Going forward, no matter what happens, I know there is something we all can do to give back, and it has to do with how we continue to live our lives. Each of us will keep the fire of the Spirit alive, making sure the education we received at our Alma Mater continues to make a difference in our communities and in the people we are called to serve, influence, and love. Let that be our legacy for Espíritu.

¡CES por siempre! 

Con gran amor, gratitud y esperanza, gracias a nuestro Dios, quien es la Verdad, nunca nos falta y es el mismo ayer, hoy y por siempre. (With much love, gratitude, and hope -- thanks to our God -- who is the Truth, never fails us, and is the same yesterday, today, and forever.)

Amaryllis (Dr. Mari)

Video from this morning's gathering at Colegio Espíritu Santo.

Video of children singing our school hymn during the pandemic.

Our school hymn, written by Frankie Jirau:

Colegio Espíritu Santo,

Alma Mater sin igual.

Aurora de la enseñanza,

modelo del saber y del triunfar.

Alma Mater, nuestro amor

te cantamos con fervor.

Este himno, ¿qué será?

Luz de Dios que es la Verdad.

Colegio Espíritu Santo

eres flor de inspiración.

Por eso te guardaremos

grabado en el jardín del corazón.

New Year Blessings!

As a new year approaches, I love to look back and recall the blessings of the previous year to welcome the next year with a grateful heart. So here is my summary of some of the many blessings 2019 brought as I look ahead to 2020: Counting Blessings Toward a Happy New Year!

May 2020 be filled with purpose, meaning, and joy as we all let go of the past, learn from its many lessons, and embrace the new.

Have a blessed and healthy New Year!

Gratefully,
Dr. Mari

Recent & Upcoming Events, Including Official Book Launch!

It's been a very full and meaningful few weeks since the release of my fourth book, Recapturing Joy in Medicine. I am so grateful for the extremely positive response from so many physicians, residency directors, attendings, residents, medical students, physicians in practice, medical school faculty, and other clinicians. I have also been so touched by the many people who have purchased copies to give as gifts to their physicians! It has been heartwarming to dedicate those books to my colleagues knowing they will receive such an encouraging and valuable gift from patients who appreciate and value them. How special!

These physicians will be able to use the book as an encouraging, inspiring, practical resource throughout their careers. After a long journey full of obstacles and challenges that could have easily derailed and halted its publication, the book is already making a difference among my colleagues. I couldn't be happier!

Here's an abridged summary of recent and upcoming events that links to my new website. This includes information about the official book launch, which will take place August 4th in Winter Park, Florida. I'm also thrilled to have started a book study with female physicians in Orlando. Our first meeting was inspiring, hopeful, healing ... and I can't wait to read through the book and work on the practical exercises together!

Yes, I plan to use my book, too, as the coaching manual it is, especially as I enter into an exciting season of serving my colleagues, residents, medical students, hospitals, clinics, and the entire medical team in new ways now that the book is available. Truth is, we would all benefit from such a resource!

Thank you to the wonderful women who contributed so much to the success of our first meeting this week. If you are a female physician (MD, DO, or MBBS) in the Orlando area and would like to join us, please let me know here.

Earlier this month, I wrote a July 1st message for new interns, residents, and all physicians. You may read it here, and feel free to share it with others. We're all in this together!

Joyfully,
Dr. Mari (Amaryllis)

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

Thank you to Dannah Gresh and Secret Keeper Girls!

I've had a tremendous week, and it's about to get even better!

I had the privilege of mentoring young girls at the Girls Going Places entrepreneurship conference and had a blast! These girls are creative, smart, and full of promise. Being with them made me even more thankful for all the terrific women who have mentored and discipled me over the years. A good mentor is one of God's greatest gifts.

Today, I was blessed by a woman I've admired for a long time. Her name is Dannah Gresh and she has written many books for girls. Her ministry, Secret Keeper Girls, helps girls and moms to navigate the many challenges with which our culture constantly bombards all women. I love that her ministry is out of State College, where I lived during my college years. Looking back now that I'm a wife and mother, I'm (frankly!) amazed I survived the culture there. I'm glad to know all those Nittany Lion girls are hearing Truth through Dannah's ministry.

My heartfelt thanks to Dannah for sponsoring a giveaway of my book, The Ultimate Girls' Body Book, today! What a blessing to partner with such a wonderful ministry! Dannah asked moms and daughters to post their awkward puberty questions, and the list is awesome. Check it out here!

As I head out for a girls' weekend with four high school sisters (yes, we're still BFFs more than thirty years later!), my heart is full of gratitude. What would we girls do without one another?

Blessed!
Dr Mari

A friend loves at all times.

Proverbs 17:17

Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.

1 Timothy 4:12 

 One who loves a pure heart and who speaks with grace will have the king for a friend.

Proverbs 22:11

What's So Good About Good Friday?

One of my most vivid childhood memories involves Good Friday. In the beautiful island of Puerto Rico, Good Friday was always a quiet, reflective day. Everything stopped. Stores were predictably closed--from gas stations to grocery stores. Even the malls closed their doors! Everyone stayed home out of reverence for Christ.

Why is such reverence due a man who lived two thousand years ago? And what is so good about Good Friday?

The Gospel according to John ends with these words, "Jesus did many other things as well. If every one of them were written down, I suppose that even the whole world would not have room for the books that would be written" (John 21:25). This is how I feel as I ponder these questions. What I've learned about Christ over the years leaves me thirsty for more and, yet, fully satisfied. It is a precious paradox!

I have a few thoughts today about the One who's changed my life and heart and continues to transform my mind.

Born of a virgin in a lowly place, though a King. (He melts our pride with humility.)
Born into darkness yet called the Light of the world. (He can see right through the thick darkness of sin.)
Despised and rejected yet full of mercy, forgiveness, and grace. (He knows every human emotion and meets every need.)
His goodness and love were repaid on a lonely Cross--willingly chosen. (He knows all about sacrifice.)
Killed like a criminal yet called the Prince of Peace. (His sword is Truth and pierces every lie.)
Even from the Cross, He spoke forgiveness unto His accusers. (He is the definition of Grace.)
Also from the Cross, feeling forsaken, He trusted His Father and gave up His spirit. (His courage and faith can become ours.)
Risen on the third day, He lives on ... and spurs us on to higher living. (His plans for us are great.)
Not leaving us as orphans, He promises the Holy Spirit will fill us (if, having repented, we ask) and guide us into all truth. (His wisdom can become ours.)
Through the Spirit, He lives in us. (He supplies the power needed to live for Him.)
Because He lives, we can have eternal life. (We get to be with the author of life, love, and every good thing forever!)

The prophet Isaiah spoke about Jesus' sacrifice hundreds of years before Jesus walked the earth. About this awaited Messiah, the Christ, he said,

He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to Him, 

nothing in His appearance that we should desire Him.

He was despised and rejected by mankind,

a man of suffering, and familiar with pain....

Surely He took up our pain and bore our suffering....

But He was pierced for our transgressions,
He was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was on Him,
and by His wounds we are healed.
(Isaiah 53:2-5)

By His wounds, we are healed. This is exceedingly good news! It means there is hope for us. There is hope for sinful man. For you and me. 

If Jesus died for the forgiveness of our sins, the price has been paid in full. His death and resurrection have set us free. We've been given a second chance. This isn't just a good Friday. This day should be called Breathtaking Friday. Astonishing Friday. Life-changing, mountain-moving, evil-defeating, satan-squashing, death-conquering Friday!

Jesus has the last word. His death and resurrection opened the door to Life. Eternal life! 

As we get ready to celebrate Easter, let us thank the Lord for His sacrifice on the Cross. Let us recommit to give our all to the One who gave everything for us. And let us receive His love and grace with open hands and hearts, that we may love others as He loves us--with mercy, with forgiveness, with grace.

He lives!

Dr Mari

Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God. (2 Corinthians 7:1)

And God placed all things under His feet and appointed Him to be head over everything for the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him who fills everything in every way. (Ephesians 1:22-23)

For more on the joy of Easter, read He is Risen! So What Does that Mean to You and Me?

Second Chances: Heaven's Heart

It's been a year since I've been there - my favorite spot to savor some fresh strawberries while reading a good book. It's not an exotic location; in fact, part of its beauty lies in its simplicity. It's the lawn at my in-laws' New England home. It seems like their garden gets better every year despite the petal-chewing deer that roam there faithfully every Spring. Through much hard work and perseverance, Mom and Dad have created something beautiful - a serene refuge to which I always long to return.

During a recent visit, I found out that Mom and Dad each tend separate gardens on their spacious lawn. After a visit to the town nursery, Mom plants the new-comers just North of the porch on the well-established garden that delights butterflies, bumblebees, and thirsty robins throughout the day. Up ahead stands a statue of St Francis where blue jays and orioles sometimes perch, surrounded by a colorful array of wild flowers. Mom's patience and discipline have paid off; the landscape is gorgeous.

Although I love all these gardens, I was thrilled to learn about the more hidden one that evolved over several years. Dad calls it the Garden of Second Chances. This hopeful patch welcomes those plants and flowers not worthy of front row status - the ones that, despite having the same soil and fertilizers, just don't make it elsewhere. Whatever Mom doesn't need in her gardens ends up here, where it gets a second chance.

Dad's Garden of Second Chances

Although early on this garden wasn't much to look at, it is now vibrant and beautiful, and the yard wouldn't be the same without it. A second chance made all the difference.

How often do we discard things - or, worse - give up on people without giving them the second chance that could save them or make a difference in their lives?

Do we withhold from the broken the gift of a fresh start? And when we fall short of our expectations, do we crawl around full of life-smothering shame and regret, or do we offer ourselves grace?

Last week I attended a convention where I discovered an Irish band that rocks. They call themselves Rend Collective Experiment, and their song Second Chance captured my soul. It celebrates the "countless second chances we've been given at the Cross." The chorus brings the truth of God's mercy home: "A second chance is Heaven's heart."

Indeed, we've all been given a second chance - many times! "Because of the Lord's great love we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness." (Lamentations 3:22,23)

Dad's Garden of Second Chances reminds me of God's grace - the undeserved favor and goodness He lavishes on imperfect people. Forgiveness is very often undeserved; that's what makes it a gift.

Next time I visit Mom and Dad, as always, I plan to photograph butterflies, study hummingbirds, and get a grand tour of Mom's lovely flower beds. And then I'll stroll up the hill to an unassuming patch of green that houses something we all need. Hope. Mercy. Grace.

And I will say a prayer of thanksgiving to a good Lord - the giver of all good things. The One whose grace is limitless. The One whose love never ends.

His!
Dr Mari 

"How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!" (1 John 3:1)

For more pictures and stories of my in-laws' gardens, read Living in the Moment and A Lesson in Patience from Hens and Chickens.

Hidden Courage: A Tribute to a Young Veteran

This month, I translated a Little Patriot Book titled, When Your Dad Goes to War. The series, written by Maryann Makekau, helps children and their families cope with the many issues brought on by military deployment. As when I translated the Little Pink Book series to help families cope with cancer, I have been touched deeply by this small work of love.

Fifteen years ago, I served on Active Duty in the U. S. Air Force after completing a residency in family medicine. While stationed at a Special Operations base, I was privileged to care for Active Duty men and women and the families they left behind during frequent deployments to remote locations. I diagnosed and treated anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder often, and referred many families for additional help. Even years after the experience, I still remember the faces of countless people who sacrificed everything for their country and our freedom; they deserve our utmost respect, admiration, and gratitude.

This week I met another such family: a young disabled veteran, his wife, and their toddler. They attended a seminar to equip entrepreneurs who dream of starting a business. Along with the fifty-some other participants, this man shared his dreams, but something was different about him. His speech was slow, and his feet couldn't move much faster. Although he brought home physical as well as emotional scars from the war, his determination seems intact. I was inspired by watching him walk up and down every aisle, ever so slowly, but never stopping - his head always help up high.

When I looked in his eyes, I recognized a spark one might miss from his outer appearance. His eyes disclosed his hidden courage, his hope, his pride. I saw that same spark in my father's eyes; he, too, served in uniform as a young man. I have no doubt that, like my father, this young veteran will overcome every obstacle on his path, even if it takes some time, much perseverance, and the loving support of grateful people.

Papi

Still, the road won't be easy for him or his family. As I observed his wife help him walk, I felt led to pray for them. Their children. Their future. Their marriage. And, holding back tears of gratitude, I began to count my many, many blessings.

We all know someone who's served in the military, is serving, or will serve one day. Their sacrifices impact all of us, whether we recognize it or not. Although I no longer wear a uniform, I gained much during my time among so many courageous and selfless people. May we all remember them in our prayers and offer them a helping hand and an understanding heart every opportunity we have.

Grateful,
Dr Mari

“A new command I give you: Love one another. 

As I have loved you, so you must love one another."  

(John 13:34)

Today, I Am Thankful

“As you do not know the path of the wind, 

or how the body is formed in a mother’s womb, 

so you cannot understand the work of God, the Maker of all things.”

(Ecclesiastes 11:5)

Today, I am grateful for thoughtful children and a loving husband. 

For people who help those who need them and do so with excellence and compassion.

 For the Father's protection and the Son's selfless love.

For the Spirit's guidance, direction, and inspiration. 

Today, I thank God that although I do not understand,
I can know Him. 

Although I cannot see Him,
I recognize His hand prints everywhere 

and discern His voice in gentle whispers.

Today, I look around and see blessings. 

Some are hidden, like the seed that awaits its blossom.

Others yell out, 

"Open your eyes. 

God is real. 

Love is alive!"

Today and every day, I am thankful.

Joyfully,

Dr Mari

*Photographs by Manuel Díaz. All Rights Reserved. www.manueldiazphotography.com.

My Injury - A Megaphone!

So I hurt my hand. My right hand. My writing hand. Just as I was starting to add the final edits to my book. So instead of editing bliss, I have four more weeks to learn to appreciate the splint that protects my right thumb and my wrist's scaphoid, the bone I hurt when I fell off my bike.

And, yes, I recognize that I just started two sentences with "so" and another with a preposition, but remember. No editing bliss. My writing captain is on strike. By that, of course, I mean my right thumb. The space bar is critical to a writer, and the left thumb has way too many duties now.

All that said, there have been some benefits to this nuisance of an injury. Like my sweet husband putting my hair up when I opt for a pony tail - which is every morning now - mostly so I get to watch him do it. Too cute!

I've also realized how much I ignore my left hand when I'm well, relying heavily on my dominant hand. How often we use only some of the gifts God gave us while others lie dormant, unused and under-developed! I'm committed to using my left hand more after my right hand heals.

My biggest lesson came last week while Russ fetched the bag of sugar I couldn't quite grasp left-handed. I finally confessed, "I just want to be self-sufficient!"

"Really? That's what you want? Inter-dependent is what you mean. You want to let us help you when you need us, don't you?"

Well, in truth, no; I don't. I want to be able to do everything for myself with little need of others. A recovering perfectionist and type B wanna-be, I live by my to-do list and, lately, I simply cannot get it all done.

Somehow I sense that was part of God's plan in allowing this annoying detour to my perfect plans.

So what's my point? I guess I've realized how much I take for granted every single day. How much I need others. And the blessing of asking for help when I need it and accepting it with grace.

My alarm went off this morning with a song of praise. As I tested my thumb, I noticed it still hurts. So I joined the song on the radio, thanked God for another day, and walked over to my hubby, hair-tie in hand. He knew just what to do.

I'm pretty sure he smiled, and I definitely said thank you.

Grateful,
Dr Mari

Jesus' Birth... Our Life!

I have been intrigued by the theme of my recent blog posts. From the joy of the Lord to a dying newborn to the martyrs of the faith, the topics have been varied and not necessarily Christmas-like. I think I understand why. There is no Christmas without Christ, and there is no Christ without the Cross. If we come to Christmas thinking it's just about a cute baby in swaddling clothes, we've missed the point of His coming.

Jesus is totally other; there is not one like Him. But the story has become too familiar. It helps if we reflect on it anew as if hearing it for the first time.

A heavenly king took on flesh and became human. Jesus left His throne to descend upon a dark and dangerous world as an innocent child. The One who laid the foundations of the world, Wisdom Incarnate, the Alpha and the Omega, chose to dwell in a human body with limits - suddenly, vulnerable. Surrounded by dirty animals, He was born in a dark cave and laid in a feeding trough for cattle. Lowly shepherds and kings alike came to honor and worship Him, for He came for all, regardless of creed or social status. Though perceived by only a chosen few, His glorious light dispelled the darkness for all.

This Savior of the world who chose an infant's body as His home came for one reason: to die for us. His shadow is the Cross.

Beyond the highly unusual circumstances of His birth, this Advent I've reflected much more on Jesus' purpose for coming. On that very first Christmas day, He was already destined to give His life for sinners that we may partake of His glorious life. Apart from Him, we are dead in our sin; period. As author CS Lewis noted, "Christianity, if false, is of no importance, and if true, of infinite importance. The only thing it cannot be is moderately important."

As we prepare to celebrate Christ's birth, I invite you to join me in this prayer. Lord Jesus, I thank You for coming into this broken world to show us the way of life. I am sorry for all the ways that I deny and reject You, and I come to You asking for the free gift of life that comes as I open my heart to You. Thank You that You will reveal Yourself to me as I surrender my life to You, for that is why You came.

Have a blessed Christmas full of the life, love, and grace of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! In Him, there is life - abundant life!

His!
Dr Mari

"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; 

I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." (John 10:10)

God's Song

Have you heard God sing over you lately? I have, and it's glorious! In fact, I live for that. I live to hear His song again - every day! I remember many of His songs whispered to my heart, but one came so unexpectedly that it stands out. It happened last year.

I had just lost my father and had grieved for months when another crucial relationship became strained. Having no words to express all the emotions that filled me, God inspired me to paint. I bought an unfinished bookshelf and, with each brushstroke, I poured my soul's grief and confusion unto the wood while sitting quietly in God's presence. And then it happened.

With no warning or obvious trigger apart from a prayerful gaze seeking God's face, deep called to deep (see Psalm 42). The depth of God's mercy reached the depth of my suffering as I called on Him without words. Suddenly, I heard God speak to my restless heart, and I was healed. In an instant, I knew that God was with me, that He saw my heart and, loving me, delighted in my seeking - and delighted in me! He stilled my soul, singing over me as in these verses from Zephaniah 3:17,

"The LORD your God is with you,
   He is mighty to save.
He will take great delight in you,
   He will quiet you with His love,
   He will rejoice over you with singing.” 

What a promise! We don't serve a God who is far away, seated in a distant throne out of touch, uninvolved with His creation. This view of God is not scriptural and is certainly far from my experience and that of countless Christians. We have a God who left His throne to walk among us and show us God's love. His character. His goodness. And His justice. We have a God with us who is mighty to save and delights in those who seek and welcome Him.

In Philippians 2:6-11, the apostle Paul describes Jesus' saving actions. He explains that Jesus, "being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but made Himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled himself and became obedient to death— even death on a cross! Therefore God exalted Him to the highest place and gave Him the name that is above every name, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Jesus is our Immanuel, God with us (Isaiah 7:14).

As we receive Him into our hearts, the Holy Spirit takes up residence within us, filling us with power and love. He opens our eyes and our ears to the truth of His Word, and we begin to see Him more and more clearly. And He enables us to hear His song! His song of redemption. Of hope. Of life. The song that speaks of an everlasting love unlike anything we've ever known.

May we have ears to hear it and hearts to receive His matchless love.

His!
Dr Mari

iLive: A Tribute to Steve Jobs

Steve Jobs shared these words in an interview in 1993, "Being the richest man in the cemetery doesn't matter to me... Going to bed at night saying we've done something wonderful... that's what matters to me."

As we all remember with gratitude this impressive visionary, I am especially grateful for four people whose loving and courageous choices allowed Steve Jobs to live. Steve was born to a young couple during a time when the word choice has come to mean more than life. But this young couple made the selfless decision to give their child up for adoption. And then another couple, Paul and Clara Jobs, adopted Steven Paul Jobs, a boy who grew to believe that he could use his gifts to change the world for the better. And he did!

Steve Jobs has impacted our family in significant ways, for years ago he became one of our teenager's most influential role models. Jobs' spirit of innovation and creativity, coupled with an unswerving commitment to excellence and integrity, built not only a successful company but technologies that have literally changed the way we live. Some people mentor from a distance, and Steve Jobs did that for our children. May the gifts that God gave him continue to be poured upon those who will use them to help others, to simplify our lives, to do good, and to bring glory to God.

iLive!
Dr Mari

A Pencil in the Hand of God

This morning I was blessed to speak at the annual retreat of a women's group from a lovely church in Daytona Beach, Florida. As I left my house to go meet them, my nine year-old son offered an unexpected benediction. He kissed me goodbye and said, "Mami, go be a pencil in the Hand of God." He was quoting Mother Teresa, who spent her life letting God write a love letter to the world through her and urged us to let Him do the same with us. What a wonderful way to live!

Mr Teresa: A pencil in the Hand of God.

My son blessed me immensely as I prepared to bless others by sharing my love of God and His Word. As I drove to the cathedral where I spoke, I remembered another quote by Mother Teresa, "Love until it hurts... What I do you cannot do; but what you do, I cannot do. The needs are great, and none of us, including me, ever do great things. But we can all do small things, with great love, and together we can do something wonderful."

These words of Mother Teresa brought a paradigm shift to my life five years ago. When I began to pursue doing only "small things with great love," my focus shifted from me to the One who enables me to do anything good or worthwhile that I do. James 1:17 says, "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights..." I finally understood that God gets all the credit for anything good that we do - always. I found freedom in that passage, for it leaves no room for pride or self-centered boasting. It only leaves room for thanking God!

When love is our beginning and our end, what's in the middle is not only life-giving, but joyous! I am thankful for a small opportunity to share God's love with those around me, and grateful to experience His love more fully as I share what He has given me. I cannot do what others can do, but I can use the gifts God gave me to bless, to heal, to teach, to love.

This is life. Abundant life! We, too, can write a love letter to the world by using God's gifts to us for the benefit of others. Why not start now?

Be blessed!
Dr Mari

Dr Mari's Health & Hope Corner: Life's Extras - September 2011

Life's extras at Leu Gardens. Orlando, FL.

Follow this link to Life's Extras, this month's Health & Hope Corner, where I share about my husband's discovery of a bigger plan in the midst of suffering. This column is a "small thing" I do "with great love," as Mother Teresa taught. It is published monthly by Hope Matters, whose mission it is to spread hope to those walking through the stormy seas of cancer, Alzheimer's disease, or through the uncertainty and stress of military deployment. I have the privilege of serving as their translator, copy editor, and contributing author. Through books, workshops, special events, and advocacy efforts, Hope Matters provides tools, resources, and hope for tough journeys.

Enjoy this month's Health & Hope Corner, and may we all learn to rejoice as we discover life's extras in the midst of our struggles.

Blessed by sharing hope,

Dr Mari

I Will Rise by Chris Tomlin, in Memory of My Uncle

This song is posted to honor my uncle, Tío Ahmed, who went to be with the Lord earlier today. I am thankful that I was able to see him last March, when we gathered to grieve as a family the loss of my little cousin. I rejoice to think that they are now reunited where there is no pain or suffering.

As we remember those we love who are no longer physically with us, we can honor them by living fully every moment that we have left on earth. Let us all be thankful for the gift of life and choose to give it away to bless others. Today, I'm thankful for Tío Ahmed's humility, goodness, and generosity. I pray that he is soaring like an eagle right this moment.

"Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord." (Psalm 31:24)

A Lesson in Patience from Hens and Chickens

I love this picture of "hens-and-chickens" growing in my mother-in-law's New England garden. That is what she affectionately calls this succulent that to her "looks like a mother hen" that "creates little versions of herself." I discovered that this is indeed the name of this spreading plant indigenous to Europe, where it is known for its fire-resistant properties. Hens and chicks "produce clusters of rosettes. The parent rosettes are the 'hens,' and the smaller rosettes that spring from them are the 'chicks' or 'chickens.'" (Hens and Chicks, by David Beaulieu, About.com Guide)

Hens-and-chickens from Mom's garden

As I look closely at the different sprouts, they remind me that, as imperfect people, we are all at different stages of our growth journey. Like gardens, some of us are blooming in certain areas and still infants in others, but we all coexist, hopefully helping one another grow rather than standing in each others' way.

It is encouraging to remember that we are not merely dependent upon each other as we mature. The apostle Paul reminds us that it is God who makes us grow. "So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow" (1 Corinthians 3:7)

Hard as we try, we cannot make someone else mature any quicker than they're ready for; that is God's work. Although at times we are called to confront one another in love, many times we simply need to wait patiently. I'm not sure which is tougher! I do know that a key to healthy relationships that grow and endure is the ability to discern wisely when to confront, when to push gently, and when to wait.

In Ephesians 4:2, Paul urges us to "be patient, bearing with one another in love." And when love's many attributes are listed by the same apostle, the very first one is this: "Love is patient." (1 Corinthians 13:4) Our patience with one another in our different stages of growth reveals our love, and it is also a mark of our own maturity.

Our journey through life is full of challenges and struggles, but it is also full of wonder, joy and miracles. As we all grow together, "let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds... encouraging one another..." (Hebrews 10:24,25) As we do that, it helps to recognize that God is more interested in our growth than we are! So let us trust Him with our journey and that of others, doing our part each day, thankful that God will help us all mature into the blessed people He created us to be - in His time.

Let us be patient with one another and, as we wait, may we choose to love!
Dr Mari

Living in the Moment

In this fast-paced modern world, it is so important to make time for silence. While on vacation to the Northeast this week I've been blessed with many opportunities for quiet contemplation. As so often happens when we visit my in-laws, I discovered a gem in one of the bookshelves, The Music of Silence: Entering the Sacred Space of Monastic Experience, by David Steindl-Rast, O.S.B. Here is an excerpt from this small but insightful book, the companion to the CD entitled Chant:

"We are so geared to what is useful that we forget the meaningful, what gives our life joy and depth and value." (p.14)

"Saturated with information but often bereft of meaning, we feel caught in a never-ending swirl of duties and demands, things to finish, things to put right. Yet as we dart anxiously from one activity to the next, we sense that there is more to life than our worldly agendas." (p.5)

Can you, like me, relate to these simple but profound statements? If so, make time today for a bit of silence and take advantage of the gift of the present moment. As I do that now, I am filled with thankfulness for life, for health, for children, for hand-made ice cream and grape tomatoes, for a bird's nest discovered on a walk, for family, and for the ability to know and experience God and His goodness.

A few days ago, as I sat on the lawn enjoying my mother-in-law's breathtaking garden and reading this little book, my nine year-old hopped onto my blanket. Sensing a conversation coming, I marked the page and set the book down. He grinned big as he dropped his LEGO mini-figures and, out of nowhere, asked what my favorite "creature" is. Though he initially agreed with my choice of a butterfly, he explained why he prefers the puffin. With great excitement, he shared its various attributes, the best being the puffin's ability to "torpedo backwards." As he mimicked its swift movements, I smiled, for I was perfectly in the moment, enjoying my son's joy and making it my own.

Life is made up of moments like this one, but so often we miss them. We're busy, we have stuff to do, items to check off our lists, deadlines to meet. And speaking of deadlines, did you ever notice the word dead in deadlines? (p.5) Perhaps if we spent more time reaching out for our lifelines and becoming lifelines for each other rather than frantically living to meet deadlines... perhaps we'd experience more joy. It's just a thought.

Yes! Life is made up of moments, and each brings the opportunity for us to live it fully! Let us live every one. For each is a wonderful gift.

Thankful for life!
Dr Mari

Dr Mari's Health & Hope Corner: A Cup of Joy - August 2011

Follow this link to A Cup of Joy, this month's Health & Hope Corner by Dr Mari. It is featured at Hope Matters and was written in honor of Titi Myriam, my beautiful aunt whose contagious joy continues to bless my life. Te amo, Titi!

* This column is a "small thing" I do "with great love," as Mother Teresa taught. It is published monthly by Hope Matters, a company that seeks to spread hope to those walking through the stormy seas of cancer, Alzheimer's disease, or through the uncertainty and stress of military deployment. I have the privilege of serving as their translator and copy editor. Through books, workshops, special events, and advocacy efforts, Hope Matters provides tools, resources, and hope for tough journeys. *

Your Plans, His Plans

This is a guest post by author and inspirational speaker, Maryann Makekau. Her career in psychology spans two decades, with an emphasis on research, writing, advocacy and crisis intervention. She travels the country sharing hope and founded Hope Matters Productions to make a difference in hurting lives worldwide.

When I reached out for a foreword writer of When Your Teacher Has Cancer (my first Little Pink Book) I gained so much more. It’s quite magnificent when your plan turns into God’s plan! That is exactly what’s happened over the last two years.

My intention in writing that first book was simply to bless a friend in need. The story began on pink paper accompanied by basic stick-figures, bound for a 2^nd grade classroom. That reading revealed a need well beyond those walls. Every child’s hand went up when I asked, “How many of you have known someone with cancer?” Within hours of that reading, I began receiving (adult) requests to publish the title. That led me to contact Dr. Mari.

A meaningful book deserves a great layout and relevant endorsements. I’d known Dr. Mari for years, as a professional, prayer-warrior, and friend. What I didn’t know was her strong connection with this Little Pink Book. Just as those 2^nd graders were linked to a loved one’s cancer experience, so was Dr. Mari. At 20 years of age, she’d lost her mother to breast cancer. Although the loss surpassed her childhood, it didn’t surpass her need for Mom. No matter what age, child-like emotions surface when a parent falls ill. The child tucked inside cries out for comfort, understanding and healing.

                                        © 2010

Oftentimes after delivering a talk, I’m approached by women, and men, with tears streaming down their face. Their tears are grateful, healing tears. In sharing the hope inside my Little Pink Books, it’s vital to talk about a child’s heart-needs. Children need a voice when they’re thrust into a loved one’s journey through cancer. Whether the outcome is borrowed time through remission or time stolen away by cancer’s grip—loss is part of the equation. Yet, so is Hope.

God’s plan: use these Little Pink Books to share hope; use our expertise as an instrument of healing; and use our passion to make a difference in hurting lives. Dr. Mari joined hands with me as a Pink-enthusiast—celebrating her mother’s life by writing a relevant foreword. Her enthusiasm quickly revealed a bigger plan in this Little Pink Book journey. As translator, copy-editor and blogger, her Pink enthusiasm became an integral part of Hope Matters Productions.

A Little Pink Book grew into a company, with a vision to inspire others with the “infectious quality of Hope.” Thank you, Dr. Mari, for embracing a bigger plan. You’ve demonstrated that when you don’t allow loss to diminish your hope, it can be used in unimaginable ways. Shine on... share your radiant glow of hope. It’ll light the path for God’s amazing plans!

Maryann Makekau, © 2011

www.becausehopematters.com

Lessons I Learned Watching Mom: A Mother's Day Tribute

                  

Mami lives on... through the power of love

I was blessed to have a loving encourager and peacemaker as a mother. On this Mother's Day, I'd like to share some lessons I learned by watching her over the twenty years I had her. Though breast cancer took her from us way too soon, she lived so abundantly that her life continues to bear good fruit that endures. Mami's life goes on in those she loved and blessed. Here's some of what she taught me: 

 

I Have Dignity and Worth.
How I Choose to Live Matters.

Mami waltzed through life, her quiet confidence and inner beauty permeating everything she did. She knew who she was and did not live to fulfill others’ expectations of her. I watched her face hardship with dignity, never losing her sense of purpose, her joy or her radiance. Her strength inspires me to face adversity deliberately and with grace, showing through my choices that I know my worth and value what God has entrusted to me through the gift of life.

Laughter and Joy are the Best Medicine.

I grew up watching Mami laugh. She loved to laugh with her family, her friends, our neighbors (especially Yiya), and her coworkers. On cleaning day, she'd often drop the mop, take my hand and lead me to our living room, where we'd dance to our hearts' delight. In the car, Mami would always sing along with her favorite ballads on the radio. When I think of Mami, I picture her laughing with her whole being. Proverbs 17:22 says, “A cheerful heart is good medicine.” I think laughter was Mami's favorite drink!

Encouragement is Powerful.

To en-courage is to infuse others with courage, and who doesn't need that? Mami was my greatest cheerleader; her belief in me helped me to become a doctor. Proverbs 11:25 teaches that “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” As we offer encouragement to those who need it, we, too, are invigorated, finding fortitude for our own trials. So I, too, strive to be an infuser of courage, a giver of hope.

Share Your Life and Your Heart With Those You Love.

One of my best memories is going for long drives with Mami. During the two hours we spent driving through the countryside to visit Grandma, Mami shared stories with me. Stories about work. About her childhood. About her parents and siblings. I learned what she valued by hearing each story and noticing the threads that tied them together: her passion for integrity, honesty and truth. Her love of family. Her desire to make a difference in people's lives through her work, by staying involved in the political process, and through acts of kindness.

Mami shared her heart through stories and actions that still teach and feed me twenty years later. As I recognize the impact of all this, I feel compelled to live with the same intentionality, for I know that my kids are listening to me, too.

Sometimes Life Deals you a Tough Hand. Play it Well.

So sometimes life deals you a tough hand. And if it does, you must play your hand, and play it well. Others are learning from you, even as you figure out your own way. So whether you waltz through your troubles or sink into pot holes, the way you navigate your challenges impacts more than just your life. So play your hand well, getting help if you need it.

I still have Mami's copy of Desiderata, the anonymously written reflections found in Old Saint Paul's Church in Baltimore in 1692. “Go placidly amid the noise and haste,” it says, “and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons... in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.”

In times of trial, stay close to those who love you well. Depart from all that steals your hope. And call on God as your lifeline. Then, you will never be alone.

Think About the Next Generation.

Mami was Assistant Secretary of Labor for Puerto Rico. One of my best memories is when she addressed the media during a special event at her office. I was the only person younger than twenty in a room full of news reporters, bright lights and cameras. I don't recall the subject of the meeting, but I remember her words. She spoke about young people, whom she called “the hope of the land” and “the future of the world.” She emphasized her belief in the young and spoke about us in a positive way. Thirty years later, her words still touch me deeply.

I learned many more things from Mami. She taught me to work hard, to believe in myself and to help those in need. She taught me to be relentless in protecting those I love. And she taught me to love deeply and to show it. As I remember beautiful Maribel this Mother's Day, I rejoice in her: her beauty, her joy, her life. And I smile as I recognize threads of her stories weaved into my children's lives - even though they never met her.

Still, they meet her every time I take their hand, play some merengue and teach them a new dance move. Or when we're driving around and I share about my day and enjoy every detail they share about theirs. They meet her in every endearing word I use to show my love, as she lovingly did with my brother and me. And they meet her in my commitment to teach every second, aware that my children are learning from everything I say and do.

So laugh and rejoice no matter what, and find people and things that strengthen, inspire and help you rise each day. Life is for living. Hope is for giving. And love heals all things. Today, embrace those you love. Rejoice in your family and friends, and laugh. Or dance. It's a great way to say thanks – for life!

Be thankful!

Dr Mari 

* This tribute was featured in Hope Matters.