My Conversation with an Atheist

Posted on by beautybeyondbones

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OK – onto tonight’s post!

I don’t know what I’ve done to deserve it, but it just seems like lately, God is having a field day, plopping me down into really fascinating situations.

Maybe it’s because I’m getting more bold in “stepping out” for Him, but for whatever reason, it’s like every day presents a new and interesting opportunity that could have only been orchestrated by God.

Like, for example, the 40-minute conversation I had with an atheist over the weekend.

Allow me to set the stage: I was – surprise surprise – praying outside of Planned Parenthood. And let’s just say, I don’t really blend in. Namely because, I’m wearing my signature sun hat. Because…I’m anal about my skin. Doesn’t matter – rain or shine, I’m wearing this UPF 50+ sunhat. Haha — it’s not as hideous as it sounds. It’s actually *the most* chic — Audrey Hepburn esq, if you will.

But suffice it to say — it prohibits me from simply, “blending in.”

But anyway — this young guy…around my age…he approaches me and says, “Hey, I’ve seen you here before. I live on this street. What are you doing here?”

And, frankly – I was impressed at the gonads this guy must have had to try and “pick up” a girl when she is literally holding a rosary and praying outside an abortion clinic in the rain. So I put on a pleasant smile, and engaged in conversation, all the while thinking — Alright, batter up. What in the world am I going to say. Sink or swim, it’s go time.

So, I explained to him that I was there praying for the end of abortion.

And with that, began one of the most profound conversations I’ve ever had in my life.

I was able to share with him about how the anorexia in my past taught me that value and worth of a human life, which he found particularly intriguing. He wanted to know what I was hoping my presence there on the sidewalk would accomplish. And then we talked about faith.

And this is where the conversation really got interesting.

He mentioned to me how he was an atheist, and that he’s really been searching for truth. He’s been going through all these different spiritualities and religions, looking for purpose.

Then he looked me dead in the eyes and asked, “Do you ever feel like you’re made for more?”

And, taken aback by the beauty of his spirit shining through, I just smiled and said, “Absolutely.”

And pressing, he followed up, “I mean, really, what is the meaning of life? Why are we here?”

Now, let’s pause for a moment. I have never had an interaction like this before, nor was I prepared to have an existential conversation of this magnitude on the corner of a busy New York street, in the rain, in front of a Planned Parenthood.

So, I did the best I could…but I’m afraid I wasn’t as bold or as eloquent as I would have liked.

But I said, “Well, I think the meaning of life is to love. To love people where they’re at…not to judge, or condemn…but just to love. Like Jesus did. And be a light to the world.”

We continued to talk for another twenty minutes or so, and I don’t know – I just really felt like this guy was surprised to hear what I was saying, given the situation, and what I assume were his preconceived notions coming into the conversation.

I think he was expecting me to say how I was critical and judgmental of the women who walked in or out of that door. So when he heard me say that I just wanted to love and support them, I could practically see his opinion of “prolifers” change.

But coming home that night, his question haunted me: “What is the meaning of life?” I kept kicking myself, feeling that I really struck out when this big, beautiful “home run” opportunity was literally tee’d up right in front of me.

That night, falling asleep, I was listening to a Christian podcast. Being that we’re embarking on Holy Week, I was wanting to prepare my heart with some extra reflections on God.

“I thirst.”

Photo: The Passion of the Christ

I thirst – one of the last things Jesus says on the Cross. Yes – it was a fulfillment of Scripture in Psalm 69. But it also calls to mind another time that Jesus was thirsty…John 4:7 — When He asks the Samaritan woman at the well for a drink – “Will you give me a drink?“

Jesus thirsts for us.

For me. For you. For our hearts.

Jesus, on the Cross – literally pouring himself out in love for us, is thirsting for our response to Him and for our love for Him in return.

And that’s when it hit me…

That is the meaning of life: our response to His thirst.

Our Savior, thirsts for our love. So how then, are we going to respond.

How can I live my life in response to His thirst for my heart.

There it is.

I closed my eyes, and imagined the beautiful and blood stained face of our Lord, on Calgary, looking into my eyes saying, “Caralyn, I thirst for you.“

Photo: The Passion of the Christ

And that, friends, broke me.

How can I live my life in response to that? That is my purpose. That is the “more” that we all feel we have been made for. Our meaning on this earth.

I hope I run into that guy again, so I can talk to him more about this. And you know what? Something tells me I will…

“This is what the Lord says to these bones: I will make breath enter you, and you will come to life.” Ez 37:5

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279 thoughts on “My Conversation with an Atheist”

  1. I’m glad that you’re getting bolder for God and growing with every experience. Thanks for sharing! God bless.

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  2. Yet another example that we never know when the opportunity will be placed in front of us to make a difference in the lives of others. Mindful of the Scott Hahn book on the New Evangelization: the more we love as He loves us, the deeper and closer we are drawn in a relationship of love with Christ. And the more this happens, the more fervently we desire to share what we have with others. Hugs and love– Mike

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    1. Thanks Mike. You’re so right about that. I love Scott Hahn!! Will def check it out! Hugs and love xox

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    1. Ha ha what a fun thought! I actually thought about that too… This guy… Not really my type. But I am on the lookout! Thanks for stopping by! hugs and love XOXO

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  6. Love this! I grew up in the Catholic Church and was turned off by the legalism of many of those around me and went the nondenominational route. You’re one of the few examples (in addition to my sweet grandma) of a catholic who lives out their faith. So inspiring!

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  7. Perhaps these encounters (even the crazy pigeon) are not only to embolden but also to remind that they are all God’s creation- as are you! With that comes a responsibility to care for them (and you) with compassion and mercy, the way Jesus showed us through his life and death.

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  8. Great job. Each encounter, each experience is cumulative. Don’t ever fret over not having the answers. As you seek answers, you’ll gain wisdom and will be able to accomplish more next time. One day, you’ll be my age and not much will scare you. Haha.

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    1. thanks so much Ryan – I will join you in that prayer! I recommended that he see Unplanned, so fingers crossed! hugs xo

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      1. Cool, I hope he sees it! P.S. I got an email today that my “Come to life” hoodie just shipped! Once I get it, I will post a photo of me wearing it and let everyone know where they can get one. 🙂 God bless!

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      2. oooh!!! exciting!!!! THank you again, Ryan!! 🙂 haha – that would be the epitome of awesome! 🙂 you da best! 🙂 oxoxoxo

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    1. Aw, thank you so much Beverly! I’m so glad it resonated with you! same to you – have a blessed Holy Week. hugs xo

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  12. I’ve had moments like this! The cool thing about Atheists (the ones I’ve met anyway) is that they’re fascinated by metaphysics and Christianity offers answers to the big metaphysical questions of Who am I? Why am I here? And Where am I going? In ways no other faith or religion can. I am God’s image bearers, made for His glory and good pleasure, and I will one day stand before Him, either in judgment, or because of faith in Christ, in victorious salvation from sin. Sometimes those pat answers turn people off, but I’ve found they open up broader discussions as they want to know WHY we believe what we believe. I’m so thankful to God that He’s using you in this way!

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    1. Isn’t it just incredible. We had a long talk about science too, and i was able to share that in fact, science and faith do not oppose each other but compliment each other. Amen to that. thank you for this beautiful note of encouragement! big hugs xox

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  13. Gracious! You are doing the Work. It’s amazing what can happen when we show up and pray. God is working in the lives of people around us. And he lets us in on that. How beautiful.

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    1. oh gosh, thank you so much – I agree – God is always looking for a way to interact with His children! amen! big hugs to you xox

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    1. Hi Aubrey! Oh my gosh, thank you so much for this beautiful encouragement! God is good!!! 🙂 big hugs to you xox

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  16. Thank you so much for sharing! I think many of us have those same moments after replaying conversations in our minds wishing we would have thought to say this or that; for a long time the fear of not having the right words to say kept me from speaking at all for Him. The Holy Spirit has really used Romans 8:28 to encourage me, it’s not my words, power or ability that draw people to Jesus…that is the Spirit’s job; I just need to be obedient and share what is in my heart and He will work all things for good and according to His divine purpose! Continue in your obedience my sister, you are an encouragement to many!

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    1. Hi Wallace! Thank you so much for your kind words. amen to that – The Holy Spirit is such an encourager 🙂 big hugs xo

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  17. I’m listening to this really great Orthodox series. So powerful. The Orthodox believe we are here to learn how to be Christians and to prepare ourselves to spend eternity in the presence of God. Children? You have them to teach them how to be Christians. All aspects of a Christian’s life is to be about God. There is no separate life over here and then go to chruch and be different. Coming from a protestant background it’s quite eye opening. You’re doing great. What an incredible conversation to have and especially at THAT place. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OFdEROcGVjc&t=2028s

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    2. Sounds like a really interesting series! Yes! It brings to mind “Go and make deciples of all nations! ” thanks for the link! big hgs xo

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  18. Wow, you’re not kidding–He’s moved you up to the big leagues!! I think it was great that you had an awesome down to earth conversation with that guy; guaranteed the Lord had him thinking about it since that day, and will use it to hopefully bring him closer to God! Keep it up! “Talk” to you tomorrow! Hugs!!

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    1. Hey Nett! oh thank you! I sure hope he does! Who knows — maybe I’ll bump into him this week when I go to pray and we can continue our conversation! thanks for the encouraging words! big hugs xo

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  20. I love the stories. About the mysterious ways God leads us and how when it happens we analyze every syllable that came out of our mouth. You were where you were supposed to be and God was present.

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    1. Thank you Billy, I really appreciate that reassurance. Yeah – I think God will give us the tools at the time we need them for sure! Who knows – maybe something I said resonated particularly with what spoke to him. I hope so! thanks so much for stopping by! big hugs to you xox

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  21. I so dearly love your love for Jesus. It thrills my heart to see you do what you know to be right. How much happier is Jesus when you do! Beautiful soul, love you as always!hugsXO😄❤

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    1. Hi Tonya! oh my gosh, what a beautiful note of encouragement. THank you my dear friend 🙂 I just hope to share His love with even just one person 🙂 Grateful for you 🙂 big hugs xo

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      1. Never forget how deeply and passionately He loves you. You are so very loved as you are. The things you do for Him prove your love for Him but His love for you is never dependent on those things. It is you showing love back, He loves you unconditionally just as you are. So cool!😄❤

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      2. Thank you again, Tonya 🙂 amen to that! God is good! and He is a good Father that loves all His children!! 🙂 hugs xox

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  22. Heavenly Parent worksh through willing people who feels themselves worthy to be humble enough let the ego away – and be reborn in a higher level, on a daily basis.

    You’ve just found out several heavenly birthday of yours … 😉

    Blessings!

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    1. Thank you so much friend 🙂 isn’t that the truth! God will use us! thanks for the encouragement. big hugs xo

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  23. What a beautiful spirit you have. Don’t beat yourself up. God gives us words to say as we need them. Maybe what you said was what he needed to hear. And maybe his question was meant for you to dive deeper into what God wants from you. I love the visual of Jesus thirsting for us!! Many blessings to you, dear

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    1. Hi Wanda! Oh my gosh, this is so beautiful, thank you friend. I think you’re right – just look at Moses! He was a stutterer and God used him! He will give us what we need, when we need it 🙂 So glad you stopped by. big big hugs xox

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  25. First thing first; reading your posts over time is like watching an individual flower “bloom” into a field of flowers. Kudos to your courage and spunk.

    Second, specific to your (our) purpose in (this) life: as much as I agree we are all here to Serve God, we were created in His likeness, yet each of our Spirits are unique as our fingerprints. I believe each if us serves a likewise unique “role” and to that point, we are all unique threads in the mosaic of humanity on this planet.

    Further, it would be an insult to our Creator to think we are limited to a single purpose in life, but rather, we play multiple roles throughout our life, i.e., friend, neighbor, daughter, son, spouse, father, mother, teacher, student, etc.

    Each of our lives is in and of itself, a mosaic, and a dynamic maze of experiences and opportunities to help others… And allow ourselves to be helped by others.

    I have become a “God Friended Me” Groupee, as the essence of the TV show perfectly reflects my mantra of helping others, in different ways.

    Our challenge, as I see it, is to be aware and seek to recognize the opportunities that God presents to each of us throughout our lives.

    When we recognize and act on these opportunities, we are actively participating in the Web of Humanity, life on this planet as an Interdependent system of Love & Caring… The same Love & Caring that feeds the Greater Good of God’s Plan for our lives…

    I love these types of conversations, because they are creative discovery and positive energy laden.

    When we self-actualize, we are fulfilling God’s Plan, so it goes without saying that self-awareness is key.

    To know yourself is to know God.

    Bless you!

    Michael

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    1. Hi Michael! Oh my goodness, thank you so much for this heartfelt response! The mosaic of humanity — wow that’s so beautiful. You’re right – He’s always putting opportunities to share His love in front of us – it’s our job to recognize and respond with a generous Yes! 🙂 big hugs xo

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      1. Indeed, I had begun writing a book, but have shelved it the past few years as I had a builder build my retirement home (and am finishing) it myself. The book is entitled, “My Amazing Life… Is Not in Vein”. Would like to pick it up again, but it requires a lot of energy and the proper mindset. It is deeply refreshing and validating to witness others with a similar view of and love for God. Be well. Look for those opportunities!
        Michael

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      2. Oh wow, what a title! I hope you do pick it up! I for one would love to read it! 🙂 xo

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    1. Interesting – I never have! hmm — honestly, I think I am wayyyyy not qualified! hahah I need a life coach!! hahah hugs xo

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  28. I think it is wonderful that you shared with an atheist your faith in Jesus and His love for us. May the Lord use your words to direct this man’s hear toward Him. I think more of us should join you in prayer.

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    1. Amen to that 🙂 Thank you so much Marcelo! Honestly, I want to do it again! It was thrilling and scary, and exciting and nerve wracking, but I really felt like I was supposed to have that conversation! thanks so much for stopping by 🙂 big hugs xo

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  30. Cool pick-up line, Beauty. And it’s working. See if he comes back next week and has seen the light.
    Sorry. I’m very suspicious of atheists. Hm. Bad choice of wording. Let’s say that he has fallen for the main stream media’s version of life, the Hollywood version, the consumer version, etc. It’s very confusing not to have a few moments alone with just your own thoughts and decide what life is really trying to say. It’s the question he must ask himself, not a stranger on the sidewalk, albeit a fetching one with an Audrey hat. The word some Catholics like to say is that life is about redemption. And with that, I will wish you a Happy Holy Easter.

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    1. Thank you so much Dennis. I encouraged him to go see Unplanned. His ears perked up when he heard that it was from the first hand account of the former Clinical Director of Planned Parenthood. So I pray he sees that and his heart is changed. Yeah – we talked about that — because when we confront what the meaning and purpose of life is, we have to confront death, and think about things that are uncomfortable. It was a fascinating conversation. I was so grateful to have had the opportunity to speak with him. Same to you, have a blessed Holy Week! hugs ox

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  31. the first pic of Jesus (on the Cross) spoke to my heart about what can and will happen to us if we truly follow Jesus. it is happening in other countries and I felt the Lord say not to be surprised if and when it happens here in America. BUT it was the second that brought me to a startling A-HA moment. The pic of Jesus with a black, swollen shut eye. That was my eye a couple years ago. That is exactly what my face looked like after my ex took his fist to my face.
    We have all heard that Jesus was tempted in every way and understands everything we go through. But it was looking at that picture that I finally felt that Jesus actually did go through what I did and understood. Its not that ever down played the excruciating things he went through. I just felt they were different and more extreme. I didn’t personalize the until I saw my face in His.
    Thank you for this post and for using the pictures– they had a radical effect o me tonight.
    …. and thank you for being the kind of follow that cold portray a Christ like attitude and belief to an Atheist.

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    1. Hi Kate, my dear sister in Christ. I am sending you all my love right now. Oh my gosh, my heart breaks to hear that you endured that abuse. I am just so sorry, Kate. You did not deserve that horrific treatment, and I’m sorry that you were not treated as the precious, beautiful daughter of the King that you are. You deserve to be cherished. Respected. Loved and protected. And I pray that you know that, deep down, despite the ugly, ugly demonstration of evil taken out on you. There really is power in those images of Jesus, aren’t there? To think that He went through that for you and me? It is nearly unfathomable. That is how much we are loved. I am so moved by your story, Kate, thank you for sharing it with me. Sending you the biggest hugs. love you, friend. xox – Caralyn

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  32. Maybe your conversation with this man may have opened his mind a bit. He says that there is no God, but then he wonders how everything happens. “Do you feel you were made for something more?” He has to feel like he was ‘made’ as opposed to evolve or ‘ding’ here I am. Maybe he will see the God who does not exist and realize that He is real.

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  33. Sometimes we meet people because they make us think about questions they ask, it is not for them but for us to answer it to ourselves. They make us think and help us actually

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    1. Hi friend! that is such a powerful point – you’re right, maybe the interaction was for my benefit! thanks so much for that awesome perspective! big hugs xox

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  34. What do you typically expect going into these? Does this happen often? I’m just curious as I typically find people expect me to be militant and aggressive, but also kinda get that way themselves when they fail to convert me in five minutes.

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  36. I go to a Christian University so all of the classes I am taking are based in biblical truth. We have been discussing the topic of abortion, specifically in response to prenatal screening and birth defects in my ethics class. At the end of the day it comes down to a lack of true love. To say “I love you” to someone is to say “it is good that you exist — no matter what physical or mental state you may be in.” I think that idea is so beautiful and profound and can relate to so many other situations. So I hope that if you ever meet that guy again (or anyone else in a similar situation) you will be able to show him love by telling him that it is good that he exists.

    Thanks for sharing tonight!

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    1. Hi Sami! Thank you so much for sharing this powerful perspective. You’re right – love is such a beautiful thing, because God is love. I love that thought so much! big hugs to you xo

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  37. “Rabbi,”: meaning teacher, and I know you are Catholic….You have it. Remember, as I was taught, there are two pieces to the cross: The vertical: God to man and the horizontal: man to man. Go fourth in God’s care….Sandman. This is the answer to fulfillment. The cross. We have forgotten the horizontal and we are in danger of forgetting the vertical. As Billy Graham said, and I paraphrase: “It is the cross.”

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    1. You are so right about that. Growing up, I went to a christian summer camp, and that was always taught: vertical to God, horizontal – to others, and then we draped a pair of sneakers on the cross, symbolizing our walk with Christ. Yes! It is the cross. Thanks so much. hugs xo

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  38. Caralyn, it is amazing what happens when we do what God tells us to do and are open to the moving of Holy Spirit. This was a divine encounter. God is calling that man’s name. Your life is not the same since you watched, Unplanned. Hugs oxox

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    1. Hi friend! I think you’re so right about that! God is looking for people who want to be used! I think you’re right about that — Unplanned seriously changed my heart. I have always been prolife, but that movie made me want to DO SOMETHING about it!! 🙂 big big hugs to you xox

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  39. That sunhat is dynamic. It’s stirring to read the observation that it sets you apart from the crowd. Also happy to understand the significance to you and your readers of Ezekiel 37:5.

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    1. thank you so much Odell 🙂 Yes! Ez 37:5 was really moving to me, because it reflected how God rescued me from my anorexia and breathed new life into my lifeless body. God is good. Thanks so much for stopping by. big hugs xx

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  40. Absolutely beautiful. Well done. Maybe not your words as much as your spirit and your willingness to respond to what God put in your heart no doubt came through in your encounter. The Living Word expressed through you.

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    1. Hi friend! thank you so much 🙂 Yes! That is my goal in life: to be available for Him to use me! Thanks for this beautiful encouragement. really means a lot. big hugs xox

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  41. Thanks for sharing this conversation. I think one thing I notice about your blog is that you are really kind in your responses, even with people who do not agree with you, and that is pretty rare on the internet. People do notice that. I have really struggled with my own faith over the last few years, and one big reason is the gap I see between the behavior of Christians and the principles in the Bible (even though I realize this is an unfair standard for me to put on people when I see so little of their lives) but it creeps in all the same.
    Anyway, when I see Christians behaving with kindness or altruism without expecting anything in return, especially when it is not in the spotlight, it gives me hope that there is something worthwhile still in faith after all.

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    1. Hi Liz! thank you so much 🙂 and gosh, that really means a lot. I do try to foster positive interactions on here. And I am very blessed to have such wonderful, positive readers! Thank you for sharing your walk. Struggle is definitely a part of growing, and I definitely hear you that it is discouraging to say the least when “Christians” walk and talk don’t match up. But hang in there – God sees your heart and wants to strengthen it! 🙂 thanks again for saying that and for such a generous comment. really means a lot. big big hugs to you xo

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  42. I can’t remember how you found a post I wrote several years ago. But it led me here, I haven’t been around for a while. But you’ve always impressed me, and you carry with you everywhere you go what remains of my love, respect and and awe. I knew you were extraordinary. You’ve never done anything since but reinforce that knowledge. To sit and pray for women who choose things you find hurtful and wrong, well. You’re an inspiration. I’m afraid, and my faith is weak. I’ve lost my children. I feel dead inside most of the time. I hope they’re in Heaven, but I don’t honestly know. I’ve begun a new blog on my site in which I will attempt to recount my life, my many, many failures and regrets. I hope to make people think, to pass on what I know. I invite you back, with the warning that the material will be disturbing. It’s okay; it’s all I have left. This is a horrible world, more evil and dangerous with each passing day, and the Bible warned us…Jesus warned us…that we would have troubles and tribulation.But he said to be of good cheer because he has overcome the world. I’m glad that when I’m gone, you and people like you will still be here. God bless you, young lady.

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    1. Hi Michael, wow – I am humbled by your generous and incredibly kind words. And gosh, I am so sorry for your loss, and to hear that you’re going through such a difficult season. Gosh, my heart just goes out to you. God’s mercy is vast like the ocean, and I pray that His love cover you tonight. He has overcome the world, and we can cling to that hope, even when the world seems the most bleak. Hang in there, friend. The world needs to hear your story. Keep writing. hugs xox

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  43. I read Fr. Richard Rohr ‘s daily meditations well dail! Here is one I thought fit your pos.
    Center for Action and Contemplation
    April 8 at 3:00 AM ·
    No matter who you are, what religion you claim (if you claim one at all), no matter who your ancestors were, or the work you do—if you look at people and creation with respect, you are living in Christ. In today’s meditation, Richard Rohr writes, “The Christ Mystery anoints all physical matter with eternal purpose from the very beginning. We should not be surprised that the word translated from the Greek as ‘Christ’ comes from the Hebrew word mesach, meaning ‘the anointed’ one or Messiah. Christ reveals that all is anointed, not just him.” How can we practice seeing, as Thomas Merton says, “the gate of heaven everywhere?” http://ow.ly/wAfp30olrQb

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    1. I love this reflection so much! Thank you for sharing this with me. Amen – looking at people and creation with respect. I love that. Hugs and love xox

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  45. So, thank you for this. This is amazing. It’s something I was thinking of myself, you may have seen in passing my recent musings on meaning.

    You’ve stirred up some incredible things so I’m going to try and make these connections one at a time. I apologize if this becomes a lengthy comment.

    1- Regarding “Thirst”
    I literally just got back from my local Theology on Tap wherein a local priest gave an excellent talk. He touched on the word Devotion. God is my King, the Sovereign of my Soul, the Liege-lord of my Life. I pledge myself to Him and to Him alone. No other can gain my allegiance. This is the first kind of devotion, related to Loyalty. I cannot be in the presence of God all the time (like the Eucharist, or in a Church, tho God made all things and is all around us, lets make no mistake). So I own a crucifix, and it hangs on my wall at home. I pray devotions to him, through the symbol of the crucifix. This is the second kind of devotion, an action. Devotion is both the state of loyalty and how you demonstrate it. But Fr. at the talk tonight shared that the word Devotion is derived from a Latin word, Devocio, which means (according to Aquinas, as paraphrased by Fr.) the Human hearts disposition to give God what belongs to God. You could say, we thirst for God; or rather, we ache to quench God’s thirst for us. I believe firmly that it is innate. The man you encountered (May God’s grace bring him closer to the everlasting light of Truth) was unusual only in that he was being honest. He correctly identified a sensation, a restlessness, that comes from living a life in ignorance of God. Ignorance shares a root with “Ignore”, both mean, at root, to be unaware. He is unaware of God’s presence, and God’s thirst, but knows that he has something that is a gift, and that it should be directed to some end, but he does not know what that end is.

    2- Regarding Evangelism
    I admire your confidence in approaching a vocation such as Evangelism. God meets us where we are, and prods us to go further. To quote the Ignatian principles, when we are in sin, God pricks our consciences to remind us of our duties; when we are consoled, he gives us Joy. The evil one works in reverse: When we are in sin, the evil one tempts us with fleeting earthly pleasures; when we are consoled, he pricks our conscience to try and pull us away from God. This man’s conscience was pricked, and you met his questions with the casual confidence of someone who is in Consolation; who is strong and learned in affairs of Faith; who has not just an intellectual commitment but a commitment of the will. Evangelism begins with a relationship with God. Do not feel like you dropped the ball at all. If you can leave a conversation like that with your counterpart feeling like any of his questions were answered, and with still more questions which remain, you’ve succeeded. He knows there is satisfaction, and you’ve pointed him to a source. I hope you go back. I hope you see him again. I hope he comes with more questions.

    3 – Regarding Meaning
    That really is the big question, isn’t it? What are we here for? As I linked previously, I offered some questions to close friends and my blog circle, and received some insightful answers. All of my answers were nullified by a homily I heard last night in which Fr. outlined that it is no coincidence that the pulse of the world quickens around our Paschal celebration. Regardless of how Lent has gone; Regardless of what you did or didn’t do; Holy week is The Week where we are called to follow Christ. This feeling you have, this feeling your counterpart has, my own line of questioning, it is all related. We are being pulled closer to God, he is Whispering to make us lean in so we can hear him better.

    Is it a coincidence that this happens on the Monday of Holy Week?

    God bless you for your continued service to the Lord. God’s grace shines through you. Thank you.
    AMDG

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    1. Thank you so much AMDG for sharing your heart on this. I am so touched by the care you took in responding. Amen – we are being pulled closer to God and you’re right – that’s the best start to Holy Week for sure! Thanks for this powerful food for thought! Hugs and love xox

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  46. A significant encounter with a random guy that started you searching for answers. Truth is always on the move, and we keep searching. Truth is never at the finished line, it’s lies in your passion in the process of searching. It doesn’t mean we look literally everywhere for the truth. Truth is not tangible. If it is, it’s destructible. Truth cradles in arms of passion in our hearts, not the mind. And so, we search for the truth in our hearts. Knock, and the door shall open. So, enjoy the journey of life. It may not be THE purpose, but I believe it’s A purpose, and that is good enough for me.

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    1. Thanks so much David – I really appreciate this heartfelt response. Yes! Let’s journey to the truth! Hugs and love xox

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  47. I’ve been reading your blog for a few years now. You, were one of the first to “Like” my blog and it drew me to yours. I feel as though I have been sitting in a theater, with popcorn of course, watching your life. Your blog used to be more about you, but over the years it has transformed into more about God. This only comes by your mind transforming. Also by you focusing on the love of your Heavenly Father and loving Him back. I love what God has done, is doing, and will continue to do in your life until Jesus comes back.for us. Continue to use the platform you have been blessed with to reach others with the Truth! Oh, and April 15th’s blog was great! One last thing; I know you read my blog and you are aware that I recently got remarried after 23 years of being divorced. I didn’t go looking for my wife really, but was led to her by God when the time was right. I know you are trusting God for a man, and now that your heart is moving closer to God’s heart, I have a feeling He will give you the desire of yours.

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    1. Oh my gosh you’re too kind! Seriously, Mark, I am so touched by this response. Thank you. And praise God – He is transforming all of us! 🙂 and congrats on your marriage! Many blessings to you and your love! Hugs and love xox

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    1. Oh wow that’s awesome. I am personally unfamiliar with that book but I definitely have heard wonderful things about it! Thanks for stopping by! Hugs and love xox

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  50. Thank you for taking us with you on this amazing journey in conversation with the atheist. What a terrific job you did describing the situation and sharing the experience! I can hardly wait to hear about the next time you meet. I’m sure it will happen. God has a purpose here!

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    1. Thank you so much Jan 🙂 I really appreciate that – I wish I could have said something more – but you’re right – I’m sure it will happen too! Thanks for the encouragement. Hugs and love xox

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