Tag: Faith

Poem of the Day – 06112026

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Heroes Weep Before Leaving by CS Crockett


We love stories that speak of adventure,
Ones that tell us “You too could be a hero!
You must set out from your home
And see all the wonder that lies before.”
We hear the call, but many may weep
Upon the news of our leaving.

This makes it hard for us to be leaving.
Even if we know that the adventure
Is our glorious fate, those who weep
Remind us that a lasting hero
Is not made when he leaves but before.
This is why we hold on hard to home.

For surely it will be a different home
After there has been this leaving.
No one can deny that what came before
Is greater than any gold-rumor adventure.
He who would leave this for gold is no hero,
But will gnash his teeth and weep.

But also among those who will gnash and weep
Are those who hold on too hard to home.
We feel disgust for that which clings to a hero
And would not have him be leaving.
There is certainly a time for adventure.
Home just will not be what it was before.

So let us not idolize what came before,
But let us keep for what we weep
To the end of this old adventure
That took place in our changing home.
It may be hard for us to be leaving,
But when has hard stopped a hero?

It is not easy being a hero.
We remember what we learned before
This moment, but now we are really leaving.
And with this realization we too may weep.
We too must set out from our home
In search of a hard adventure.

I understand why heroes weep.
Before, it was right to be home,
But we have to leave for adventure.

Personal Reflection

Most stories focus on the departure.

The map spread across a table.
The call to adventure.
The promise of distant horizons and extraordinary things waiting just beyond the familiar.

What they often leave out is the grief.

Not the grief of failure.

The grief of leaving something worth missing.

That is the truth at the heart of this poem.

The hero does not weep because they are weak. They weep because they understand the cost of movement. Every meaningful journey requires a farewell. Every transformation asks us to leave behind a version of ourselves, a place, a season, or a certainty that once felt permanent.

We celebrate courage, but we rarely talk about what courage actually feels like.

It rarely feels fearless.

More often it feels like standing in a doorway, looking back one last time.

The poem recognizes something important: a hero is not defined by a desire to escape home. In fact, the opposite may be true. Home matters precisely because it is difficult to leave. The memories, relationships, routines, and comforts we carry with us give meaning to the road ahead.

Without something worth leaving, there is no sacrifice.

Without sacrifice, there is no real adventure.

That idea feels especially relevant beyond fantasy and folklore.

People leave homes every day.

Children grow up.
Parents age.
Relationships end.
Careers change.
Dreams evolve.

Sometimes the journey is a new city.

Sometimes it is simply becoming a new version of yourself.

And almost every meaningful change comes with a moment when part of you wants to stay where it is safe and familiar.

The poem refuses to shame that feeling.

Instead, it honors it.

Because longing for what came before does not mean you are moving in the wrong direction. It simply means what came before mattered.

And yet the poem offers another truth:

Home is not meant to become a prison.

There comes a moment when love for the familiar must coexist with a willingness to grow beyond it.

The hero cries.

Then leaves anyway.

That is the difference.

Reflection Prompts

  • What chapter of your life have you outgrown but still find difficult to leave behind?
  • Have you ever mistaken fear of change for loyalty to the past?
  • What journey is asking something of you right now?

Poem of the Day – 06062026

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Changing The Past by Donna

The past is the past for a reason.
That is where it is supposed to stay,
But some cannot let it go.
In their heads it eats away

Until all their focus becomes
The person they used to be,
The mistakes they made in their life.
Oh, if only they could see

That you cannot change what happened,
No matter how hard you try,
No matter how much you think about it,
No matter how much you cry.

What happens in your lifetime
Happens for reasons unknown,
So you have to let the cards unfold.
Let your story be shown.

Don’t get wrapped up in the negative.
Be happy with what you have been given.
Live for today not tomorrow.
Get up, get out, and start living,

Because the past is the past for a reason.
It’s been, and now it is gone,
So stop trying to think of ways to fix it.
It’s done, it’s unchangeable; move on.

Donna. “Changing The Past.” Family Friend Poems, July 6, 2011.

Personal Reflection

One of the cruelest habits of the human mind is replay.

The conversation you should have handled differently.
The relationship you stayed in too long.
The words you regret saying.
The opportunities you missed because fear sounded safer than risk.

Long after the moment has passed, the mind keeps reopening the file as if enough thinking might somehow rewrite the ending.

That’s the emotional truth sitting underneath this poem.

Not just regret—but fixation.

The exhausting belief that if we revisit the past often enough, we might finally negotiate a different outcome with memory itself.

But memory is rarely interested in compromise.

It preserves moments exactly where they hurt the most. And if we are not careful, we begin living backward—measuring the present against former versions of ourselves, former mistakes, former pain.

The poem pushes against that instinct directly.

Not by denying regret exists, but by questioning how much life we sacrifice trying to repair what cannot be undone.

That’s difficult because regret often disguises itself as responsibility. We tell ourselves:

  • “I’m just reflecting.”
  • “I’m trying to understand.”
  • “I need closure.”

Sometimes that’s true.

Other times we are simply punishing ourselves repeatedly for being human.

And being human means making mistakes with limited wisdom at the time. It means not always recognizing the importance of a moment until it has already become memory.

The poem’s reminder is simple but necessary:

You cannot build a future while permanently living in revision mode.

At some point, healing requires acceptance—not approval of what happened, not pretending pain was beneficial, but acceptance that the past no longer changes simply because we keep arguing with it internally.

That’s where freedom begins.

Not in forgetting.
Not in erasing.

In loosening your grip on the impossible task of undoing.

Because life keeps moving whether we emotionally move with it or not.

And perhaps the saddest thing isn’t the mistakes we made years ago.

It’s how many years we sometimes lose refusing to stop reliving them.

Reflection Prompts

  • What memory do you revisit most often, and what are you hoping will change?
  • Have you confused self-punishment with accountability?
  • What part of your life is waiting for you to finally stop looking backward?

Song Lyric Sunday: God – 03102024

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CHALLENGE RESPONSE – SLS

This challenge was tough for me, not because I didn’t know a song that fit the parameters, but because I knew too many to choose one. So, I decided to cheat a little, just a tad. I’m going to list my Top 3 favorites within the parameters. However, I will only deep drive on the first song. My Top 3 are as follows:

  • God Bless the Child – Billie Holiday
  • God is a Bullet – Concrete Blonde
  • Dear God – XTC

God Bless the Child is my favorite because of the dear memories it holds within the melody and lyrics—memories I rarely recall until I hear the song. Immediately, I’m teleported back into my childhood, listening to my mother playing the track on the HiFi. For the longest time, she only played Diana Ross’s cover of the song. I memorized and sang it along with her. I found the original when I was old enough and brought the 45 for Mom. Here are the particulars about the song.

The Meaning of “God Bless the Child”

“God Bless the Child” is a song that carries profound meanings, intertwining themes of independence, self-reliance, and the harsh realities of inequality and economic disparity. Originating as a jazz standard, it was famously performed by Billie Holiday, who co-wrote the song with Arthur Herzog Jr. in 1939. Through its poignant lyrics and soul-stirring melody, the song delves into the complexities of financial dependency and social stratification, resonating across generations with its timeless relevance.

Interpretation of Lyrics

At its core, “God Bless the Child” emphasizes the value of self-sufficiency. The opening lines, “Them that’s got shall get, Them that’s not shall lose,” reflect a stark observation of societal dynamics, where the rich grow richer and the poor face continual hardship. This sets the stage for the song’s central message, advocating for personal strength and independence in a world rife with inequities.

The chorus, “God bless the child that’s got his own,” underscores the dignity and empowerment found in self-reliance. It suggests a divine favor or resilience bestowed upon those who can stand on their own feet, contrasting the vulnerability of those who depend on the charity or whims of others. This message is particularly poignant, considering Billie Holiday’s own struggles with poverty and racial discrimination, adding a layer of personal testimony to the song’s narrative.

Cultural and Historical Context

“God Bless the Child” emerged during significant social and economic upheaval in the United States, reflecting the hardships of the Great Depression and the subsequent recovery period. Its themes resonated with many who experienced financial insecurity and witnessed the disparities between social classes. Over the decades, the song has been interpreted by numerous artists across various genres, each bringing their own perspective but retaining the core message of autonomy and resilience.

Philosophical and Ethical Considerations

Beyond its commentary on economic issues, “God Bless the Child” also touches on deeper philosophical and ethical questions. It prompts listeners to consider the values of independence versus interdependence and the moral responsibilities of the fortunate towards the less privileged. In this light, the song can be seen as a call to introspection and empathy, encouraging individuals to find their strength while recognizing the interconnectedness of society.

Legacy and Influence

The enduring appeal of “God Bless the Child” lies in its universal message and emotional depth. It has transcended its original context to become an anthem of perseverance and dignity, inspiring listeners to reflect on their circumstances and society. The song’s influence extends beyond music, permeating cultural discussions and academic analyses, attesting to its profound impact and relevance.

In conclusion, “God Bless the Child” is more than a musical composition; it reflects human resilience, social justice, and the quest for dignity. Its message of self-reliance amidst adversity resonates, offering inspiration and insight to each new generation that discovers its timeless verses.

God Bless the Child Lyrics (1956 Version)

Them that’s got shall have
Them that’s not shall lose
So the Bible said and it still is news

Mama may have, Papa may have
But God bless the child that’s got his own, that’s got his own

Yes, the strong get smart
While the weak ones fade
Empty pockets don’t ever make the grade

Mama may have, Papa may have
But God bless the child that’s got his own, that’s got his own

Money, you’ve got lots of friends
They’re crowding around the door
But when you’re gone and spending ends
They don’t come no more
Rich relations give crusts of bread and such
You can help yourself, but don’t take too much

Mama may have, Papa may have
But God bless the child that’s got his own, that’s got his own

Mama may have, Papa may have
But God bless the child that’s got his own, that’s got his own

He just don’t worry ’bout nothing, ’cause he’s got his own

You guys already know how I feel about Concrete Blonde. However, XTC’s Skylarking was packed with amazing songs, and I spent a lot of time listening to it.

Thanks to Jim Andrews for hosting this challenge. Such a fantastic suggestion, Nancy, aka The Sicilian Storyteller.

Saint Rita, Can You Help Me?

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Bloganuary writing prompt
What’s your dream job?
View all responses

DAILY PROMPT RESPONSE

If I’m honest, I really only wanted to be one thing: a writer. As a child, I told and wrote stories, which landed me in more trouble than I care to admit. It’s something about writing I can’t quite put into words. At least not anything meaningful or moving. So, it is simple: my dream job is to write stories that touch the reader. Provide the reader an opportunity to travel, feel, identify, or enjoy the snippets of life I depict in my stories.

I may never accomplish this dream; it’s one of those ideas we had as children that may be impossible to obtain. However, this doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try to fulfill them- not at all. We keep chipping away at them, and maybe one day, they will come true. Who knows?

During some research I did years ago, I came across the legend of Saint Rita. Here is an overall of the legend.

Saint Rita of Cascia, often called the “Saint of the Impossible,” occupies a special place in the hearts of the faithful worldwide. Born Margherita Lotti in the 14th century in Roccaporena, Italy, Saint Rita’s life journey is one of unwavering faith, resilience, and a profound connection with the divine. 

Early Life and Marriage:

Margherita Lotti entered the world in 1381 amidst Italy’s political upheaval and social change. At an early age, she expressed a deep desire to dedicate her life to God. However, she obediently followed her parents’ wishes and married Paolo Mancini, a man with a troubled reputation. Despite the challenges in her marriage, Saint Rita remained steadfast in her commitment to her vows and embraced her role as a wife and mother.

Widowhood and Religious Life:

Tragedy struck Saint Rita when both her husband and sons succumbed to a violent end. Widowed and grief-stricken, she sought solace in prayer and contemplation. In a remarkable turn of events, Saint Rita’s sons’ destinies took a divine twist – they died before seeking vengeance for their father’s murder, preventing a cycle of violence.

Following her family’s tragedies, Saint Rita sought entry into the Augustinian convent at Cascia. Her initial request was met with resistance, as the convent had reservations about admitting a widow with a connection to a violent family. However, it is said that Saint Rita’s perseverance and her ability to perform a miraculous feat involving a dried fig tree blossoming out of season convinced the sisters to accept her.

Life in the Convent and Miracles:

Saint Rita’s years in the convent were marked by profound devotion to prayer, penance, and acts of charity. She received the stigmata, wounds similar to those of Christ, a sign of her deep spiritual connection. Saint Rita is also renowned for her devotion to the Passion of Christ and her advocacy for peace and reconciliation.

One of the most famous miracles associated with Saint Rita is the episode of the rose. According to legend, Saint Rita requested a rose from her garden during winter; miraculously, a single rose bloomed in her hands. This act of divine intervention is often cited as a symbol of hope and the miraculous nature of Saint Rita’s intercession.

Canonization and Patronage:

Pope Leo XIII canonized Saint Rita of Cascia on May 24, 1900; her feast day is celebrated on May 22. She is venerated as the patron saint of impossible causes, abused women, and mourning parents. Pilgrims worldwide visit the Shrine of Saint Rita in Cascia, where her relics are enshrined, seeking her intercession for their troubles and tribulations.

Legacy:

Saint Rita’s life and miracles inspire millions of believers, offering a testament to the transformative power of faith and the enduring hope found in times of adversity. Her story serves as a beacon of compassion, forgiveness, and the miraculous, reminding us that the divine can bring about healing and redemption even in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Conclusion:

In the rich tapestry of Catholic saints, Saint Rita of Cascia stands out as a luminary figure, admired for her unwavering faith, resilience in the face of tragedy, and the miracles attributed to her intercession. Her legacy extends far beyond the boundaries of time and geography, resonating with those seeking solace, hope, and the miraculous in their lives. Saint Rita’s enduring impact underscores the universal human desire for connection with the divine and the belief that faith can light the way even in the most challenging circumstances.

Throughout my life, I’ve heard countless legends about multiple saints. None is less credible than the other. There’s beauty in our beliefs.

So, Saint Rita, can you help me keep the faith?