Ballet-Play More Cards Days
Romans, Chapter 8, Verse 19-21
19 For creation awaits with eager expectation the revelation of the children of God; 20 for creation was made subject to futility, not of its own accord but because of the one who subjected it, in HOPE 21 that creation itself would be set free from slavery to corruption and share in the glorious freedom of the children of God.
God desires your freedom from corruption therefore look to Christ and his mother Mary.
When Mary was three years old — so we are told by tradition — her parents presented her in the temple, where she remained for the next few years, together with other young children from the first families (she was a princess of the royal house of David). These girls, while serving God, learned to spin, weave, and embroider the vestments and curtains around the temple. Helping to take care of the many priests on duty, they also learned to prepare food. They had to read long passages from Holy Scriptures, like the Book of Psalms; and they had to learn by heart parts of the Prophets and Proverbs. Thus, long before the angel talked to Mary, she knew of the tragic life and the cruel death predicted for the Messiah.[1]
Ballet Day[2]Beauty
is the Foretaste of Heaven
When
life takes me on a new journey, I simply remember the smile my first ballet
recital put on my face and I move forward.
– Andrea Thompson
There’s
something magical about going to ballet. The music, the outfits, the utter
passion of the dance as the ballet artists lose themselves to the performance,
all of it comes together to create a beautiful, otherworldly experience for
those in attendance. There is an almost magical power in their graceful
movements across the stage, like flower petals on a stiffening breeze. Ballet
Day encourages you to get out and see the ballet again, or for the first time
if you haven’t already. Ballet found its origins during the Renaissance
throughout Italy and France, though it had yet to evolve into the form we know it
today. There were no tutus, no ballet slippers, and the iconic pointe work of
ballet were all things to come in the future. It found roots in court dances,
and thus incorporated the proper dance dress of women at the time, formal gowns
that descended to the ankle. Unlike modern performances, the audience would
join the dance as it came to a close. Later, it would come to take influences
from the French ballet de cour, a form of performance which were performed
strictly by the nobility, and would blend dance with speech, music, verse,
song, and a great amount of pageantry. Ballet was beginning to take the shape
we know of today, and it was here that it developed into a true art form. Since
then it has spread throughout the world, from Russia to Germany, and is loved
everywhere for its intrinsic beauty. Since then, it has been driven to new
artistic heights and embraced multiple cultures, and Ballet Day encourages you
to get out and experience its beauty for yourself.
How to celebrate Ballet Day
Go to the ballet! That’s the first and best way. World Ballet Day is a yearly organized event that
celebrates the beauty of ballet and what it’s become in the world today. Events
are held all over the world, and videos are taken, so don’t think you have to
miss out on this beautiful expression of the arts simply because you aren’t
able to get out to see them. Ballet will come home to you! So, get out there
and get yourself some culture!
Play More Cards Day[3]
Cards get a bad rap sometimes—and true, there are cards games
that can be very addictive if not kept under control. But cards can also be the
source of great entertainment for friends who just want to hang out and spend
some time together, laughing and relaxing. In general, however, playing cards
is fun, and as with most fun things that relax us, it’s typically a good idea
to do more of them and let your brain take a break from the stress it’s used to
for a change. This is where Play More Cards Day comes in. Play More Cards Day
was created in 2013 by Bicycle Cards, the biggest producer of playing cards in
the United States. The company began producing their cards in 1885, and they
have since had sizable roles in various important historical events. For example,
during World War II, the deck was designed as a puzzle, which when put
together, became a map. This map was supposed to help potential prisoners make
their way to safety once they escaped. Wars also prompted Bicycle Cards to
create waterproof cards that would not peel, rip or fall apart after coming
into contact with water or moisture. During the Vietnam War, the ace of spades
printed on Bicycle Cards’ playing cards was thought to have severe
psychological effects on the Viet Cong, which viewed it as a symbol of death
and infinite bad luck for their activities. Initially, this rumor was false,
but as time went by and American soldiers continued to use Bicycle Cards’ ace
of spades as their symbol, it eventually did become a relevant part of Vietnam
War psychological warfare symbolism.
How to Celebrate Play More Cards Day
The simplest, as well as the most fun way to celebrate this day,
is to, in fact, play more cards. Do you have a favorite card game? If not, find
out what you like best by trying out a few different card games. Some people
find playing a card game in which you have no partner or team especially fun
and challenging, while others prefer the company of another teammate to help
them out if they get in a fix, like the Polish cards game Hola. If you’re a
person who values peace and quiet above all other things, playing solitaire
with real cards as opposed to just clicking on them could prove entertaining.
Choose whichever card game you want to play on this day, the only requirement
is that you have a good time. Another great way to make sure a party (even a
small one) is a success is to have various foods to snack on. If you’re all to
be touching cards, it would probably be best of the snacks you choose were not
too greasy so as not to dirty the cards. With baked chips becoming all the more
popular compared to regular deep-fried chips, that could turn out to be a much
easier criterion to meet than it seems. And if all else fails, you and your
friends can simply take a break from the game to fill up on something tasty,
and them go right back to what you were doing.
Deck of Cards[4]
Song by Tex Ritter
Friends, this is Tex Ritter with a strange story about a soldier boy and a deck of cards. During a North African campaign, a bunch of soldier boys had been on a long hike, and they arrived in a little town called Casino."
The next morning being Sunday several of the boys went to church. A Sargent commanded the boys in church, and after the Chaplain had read the prayer the text was taken up next. Those of the boys who had a prayer book took them out, but this one boy only had a deck of cards, and so he spread them out. The Sergeant saw the cards and said, "Soldier, put away those cards." After the services were over the soldier was taken prisoner and brought before the Provost Marshall.
The Marshall said, "Sargent, why have you brought this man here?"
"For playing cards in church, sir."
"And what have you to say for yourself, son?"
"Much, sir." replied the soldier.
'The Marshall said, "I hope so, for if not, I shall punish you more than any man was ever punished."
The soldier said, "Sir, I have been on a march for about six days, and I had neither Bible nor Prayer Book, but I hope to satisfy you, Sir, with the purity of my intentions."
With that the boy started his story.
"You see, Sir, when I look at the Ace it reminds me that there is but one God. The deuce reminds me that the Bible is divided into two parts: The Old and New Testaments. And when I see the trey I think of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. When I see the four, I think of the four evangelist who preached the Gospel. There was Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. And when I see the five it reminds me of the five wise virgins who trimmed their lamps. Ten of 'em; five who were wise and were saved; five were foolish and were shut out. And when I see the six it reminds me that in six days God made this great heaven and earth. And when I see the seven it reminds me that on the seventh day God rested from His great work. When I see the eight, I think of the eight righteous persons God saved when he destroyed this earth. There was Noah, his wife, their three sons, and their wives. And when I see the nine, I think of the lepers our Savior cleansed, and nine of the ten didn't even thank Him. When I see the ten, I think of the Ten Commandments God handed down to Moses on a tablet of stone. When I see the King, it reminds me that there is but one King of Heaven, God Almighty. And when I see the queen, I think of the Blessed Virgin Mary who is Queen of Heaven. And the jacks, or knaves, it's the devil. And when I count the number of spots on a deck of cards, I find three hundred sixty-five the number of days in a year. Fifty-two cards, the number of weeks in a year. Four suits, the number of weeks in a month. Twelve picture cards, the number of months in a year. Thirteen tricks, the number of weeks in a quarter. So, you see, Sir, my pack of cards serve me as a Bible, almanac, and prayer book."
"Friends, I know this story is true, because I knew
that soldier."
National Marriage Week [5]
the
tabernacle of love
National
Marriage Week (Feb. 7-14) every year, it is an opportunity to focus on building
a culture of life and love that begins with promoting and defending marriage
and the family.
·
National
Marriage Week USA is part of an international event seeking to mobilize
individuals, organizations, and businesses in a common purpose to strengthen
marriage in communities and influence the culture. For information and
resources, visit: https://www.nationalmarriageweekusa.org/.
·
World
Marriage Day (Sunday, Feb. 6) is another internationally recognized event held
every year on the second Sunday of February. For more information visit: http://www.wwme.org/wpd-wmd.
Great
relationships don’t happen by accident[6]
Just like that sweet
little vegetable patch in your backyard, the more you nurture and nourish your
relationship the happier you’ll both be. And what does that look like? Quality
nourishment requires pausing, listening, and paying attention to your partner.
It requires that you learn to love people in ways that are meaningful to them
and listen when they tell you what their needs are.
Here are 10 ways you can
nudge your relationship into a happier, healthier, more fulfilling version of
itself.
1.
Stop
pretending to be someone you’re not and just be yourself instead
When we are who we
really truly are – weird hobbies and all – magic happens. Being true to
ourselves allows us to navigate life and relationships free of hang-ups,
emotional baggage, or expectations. In the beginning stages of relationships,
many of us focus on showcasing our best selves in an attempt to garner love and
affection. We become ridiculously, painfully focused on making a good
impression. But being who you really are and being who you think someone wants
you to be – it’s hard to do those two things simultaneously. Take a deep breath,
release those shoulders, and stop pretending and polishing yourself. Just be
right here, who you are, today.
2.
Smile at
your loved one
To the best of your
ability, greet your partner with a smile when you see each other for the first
time that day. Imagine how good that would feel – after a tough day at work and
sitting in traffic, you walk through the door and are greeted with a smile and
a kiss from the person you love most. Wouldn’t that be an amazing way to start
your evening? This is not to say you’re never allowed to share the low points
of your day, but maybe save them for dinner – rather than the first five
minutes that you see your sweetie. Other great times to smile at your partner:
across a crowded party, before you part ways for the day, when you know they
need encouragement.
3.
Realize
things change
We’re living, breathing
organisms – subject to the changing tides of emotion and circumstance. It can
be emotionally crippling to get too attached to the “status quo” – not just in
your romantic relationships but in life. Change is inevitable. Next week your
partner might wake up and want to change careers, move to the east coast, or
have kids (like, soon). Can you allow space for that? Could you create a new
life with him while he pursued something new? And, of course, things will
change for you – your passions, your career, your family, your health. When
your partner tells you that they’ve got some big changes in mind – a new
workout plan, a move to the country, no more dairy – do your best to listen with
an open mind and heart.
4.
Work out
together
Exercise gives you
energy and is a wonderful way to show your partner that you’re
interested in your health and you want to stay healthy for them. Trying new
workouts together also helps you bond! Take a couple’s yoga class, a hip-hop
dance class, or try rock climbing. Even if you’re terrible, later you’ll be
able to laugh together about his terrible downward dog or your total failure to
pop ‘n lock.
5.
If you
want quality time with your significant other, plan it
You’ve heard this advice
before and that’s because it works! Make time for thrilling exciting things –
not just birthdays and anniversaries. As your weekend winds down, take a few
minutes to schedule in at least one fun date each week – whether that’s trying
a new restaurant, going for a hike, or catching a movie at the second-run
theater. Fun things happen when you make time and space for them.
6.
Express
your needs
Some people like to text
every day. Some people need a lot of alone time. Some people want their partner
to plan exciting dates. All of these needs are equally legitimate. But
your partner will never know what your needs are if you don’t tell them. You
don’t need to open a first date with a checklist, but once things are clicking
along, it’s okay to say, “I want you to feel loved and appreciated. How can I
do that?” and when you’ve heard their suggestions, you can share yours. When
they do what you asked? Offer lots and lots of acknowledgement and
appreciation.
7.
Give
without any expectations
I know it’s incredibly
tempting (so tempting!) to keep a mental list of all the nice things you’ve
done for your sweetie.
·
Picked up a new yoga mat because I saw hers
was deteriorating
·
Made a reservation for dinner Friday
·
Bought his mom’s birthday present
This mentality will only
end in tears and resentment. We can nourish our relationships by removing the
expectation that they to do the same things that we have done for them. Let
your partner give to you because they want to, not because they feel as though
they owe you.
8.
Don’t
stop caring about how you look!
Male or female, we’ve all
done this, right? Constantly hanging out in our old gym clothes and dirty hair,
eating pizza for dinner three times a week. You want to find your partner
attractive and – not surprisingly – they want to find you attractive.
Help them do that by keeping up with your workouts and saving the sweatpants
for alone time.
9.
Cultivate
intimacy and independence
It might sound
counterintuitive, but you can connect while also retaining autonomy. Don’t
stop doing the things that filled you up now that you’ve found a partner. Keep
attending those pottery classes, keep working on your novel – and keep telling
your partner all about it and why you love it. Just as important? Give them the
space to pursue a few passions without you. You’ll both be that much more
excited to come home and tell each other about your adventures.
10. Inspire your partner by loving yourself fiercely
The more you love yourself; the more others will follow your lead. We’ve all witnessed it: the confident woman who maintains healthy boundaries always seems to attract amazing partners. Do your best to identify your needs and meet those needs yourself. Need creative inspiration? Rather than trying to date an artist or force your accountant boyfriend to take drawing classes, buy a DSLR and get to shooting. Crave a more active social life? Don’t hassle your introverted girlfriend into house parties and nights out. Call up your most outgoing friends and schedule a night out, complete with cute shoes and cocktails. We teach people how to treat us and when you nourish yourself with love and respect, the world – and your partner – take notice.
Catechism
of the Catholic Church
PART THREE: LIFE IN CHRIST
SECTION TWO-THE TEN COMMANDMENTS
Chapter 2 “You shall love your neighbor as
yourself.
Article 5-THE FIFTH COMMANDMENT
III. Safeguarding
Peace
Peace
2302 By
recalling the commandment, "You shall not kill," our Lord asked
for peace of heart and denounced murderous anger and hatred as immoral.
Anger is a desire for revenge. "To desire vengeance in order to do evil to
someone who should be punished is illicit," but it is praiseworthy to
impose restitution "to correct vices and maintain justice." If
anger reaches the point of a deliberate desire to kill or seriously wound a
neighbor, it is gravely against charity; it is a mortal sin. the Lord says,
"Everyone who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment."
2303
Deliberate hatred is contrary to charity. Hatred of the neighbor is a sin when
one deliberately wishes him evil. Hatred of the neighbor is a grave sin when
one deliberately desires him grave harm. "But I say to you, Love your
enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your
Father who is in heaven."
2304 Respect
for and development of human life require peace. Peace is not merely the
absence of war, and it is not limited to maintaining a balance of powers
between adversaries. Peace cannot be attained on earth without safeguarding the
goods of persons, free communication among men, respect for the dignity of
persons and peoples, and the assiduous practice of fraternity. Peace is
"the tranquillity of order." Peace is the work of justice and
the effect of charity.
2305 Earthly
peace is the image and fruit of the peace of Christ, the messianic "Prince
of Peace." By the blood of his Cross, "in his own person he
killed the hostility," he reconciled men with God and made his Church
the sacrament of the unity of the human race and of its union with God.
"He is our peace." He has declared: "Blessed are the
peacemakers."
2306 Those
who renounce violence and bloodshed and, in order to safeguard human rights,
make use of those means of defense available to the weakest, bear witness to
evangelical charity, provided they do so without harming the rights and
obligations of other men and societies. They bear legitimate witness to the
gravity of the physical and moral risks of recourse to violence, with all its
destruction and death.
Avoiding war
2307 The
fifth commandment forbids the intentional destruction of human life. Because of
the evils and injustices that accompany all war, the Church insistently urges
everyone to prayer and to action so that the divine Goodness may free us from
the ancient bondage of war.
2308 All
citizens and all governments are obliged to work for the avoidance of war.
However, "as long as the danger of war persists and there is no
international authority with the necessary competence and power, governments
cannot be denied the right of lawful self-defense, once all peace efforts have
failed."
2309 The
strict conditions for legitimate defense by military force require rigorous
consideration. the gravity of such a decision makes it subject to rigorous
conditions of moral legitimacy. At one and the same time:
- the damage inflicted by the aggressor on the nation or community of nations
must be lasting, grave, and certain;
- all other means of putting an end to it must have been shown to be
impractical or ineffective;
- there must be serious prospects of success;
- the use of arms must not produce evils and disorders graver than the evil to
be eliminated. the power of modem means of destruction weighs very heavily in
evaluating this condition.
These are
the traditional elements enumerated in what is called the "just war"
doctrine.
The evaluation of these conditions for moral legitimacy belongs to the prudential
judgment of those who have responsibility for the common good.
2310 Public
authorities, in this case, have the right and duty to impose on citizens the
obligations necessary for national defense.
Those who are sworn to serve their country in the armed forces are servants of
the security and freedom of nations. If they carry out their duty honorably,
they truly contribute to the common good of the nation and the maintenance of
peace.
2311 Public
authorities should make equitable provision for those who for reasons of
conscience refuse to bear arms; these are nonetheless obliged to serve the
human community in some other way.
2312 The
Church and human reason both assert the permanent validity of the moral law
during armed conflict. "The mere fact that war has regrettably broken out
does not mean that everything becomes licit between the warring parties."
2313
Non-combatants, wounded soldiers, and prisoners must be respected and treated
humanely.
Actions deliberately contrary to the law of nations and to its universal principles
are crimes, as are the orders that command such actions. Blind obedience does
not suffice to excuse those who carry them out. Thus the extermination of a
people, nation, or ethnic minority must be condemned as a mortal sin. One is
morally bound to resist orders that command genocide.
2314
"Every act of war directed to the indiscriminate destruction of whole
cities or vast areas with their inhabitants is a crime against God and man,
which merits firm and unequivocal condemnation. A danger of modern warfare
is that it provides the opportunity to those who possess modern scientific
weapons especially atomic, biological, or chemical weapons - to commit such
crimes.
2315 The
accumulation of arms strikes many as a paradoxically suitable way of deterring
potential adversaries from war. They see it as the most effective means of
ensuring peace among nations. This method of deterrence gives rise to strong
moral reservations. the arms race does not ensure peace. Far from eliminating
the causes of war, it risks aggravating them. Spending enormous sums to produce
ever new types of weapons impedes efforts to aid needy populations; it
thwarts the development of peoples. Over-armament multiplies reasons for
conflict and increases the danger of escalation.
2316 The
production and the sale of arms affect the common good of nations and of the
international community. Hence public authorities have the right and duty to
regulate them. the short-term pursuit of private or collective interests cannot
legitimate undertakings that promote violence and conflict among nations and
compromise the international juridical order.
2317
Injustice, excessive economic or social inequalities, envy, distrust, and pride
raging among men and nations constantly threaten peace and cause wars.
Everything done to overcome these disorders contributes to building up peace
and avoiding war:
Insofar as men are sinners, the threat of war hangs over
them and will so continue until Christ comes again; but insofar as they can
vanquish sin by coming together in charity, violence itself will be vanquished
and these words will be fulfilled: "they shall beat their swords into
plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword
against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore."
Daily Devotions
· Unite
in the work of the Porters of St.
Joseph by joining them in fasting: Today's Fast: Holy
Bishops and Cardinals
·
Make
reparations to the Holy Face-Tuesday
Devotion
·
Pray Day 1 of
the Novena for our Pope and Bishops
·
Tuesday:
Litany of St. Michael the Archangel
· Make Minestrone
· Rosary
Day 24
[1]https://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/activities/view.cfm?id=983
[2]https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/ballet-day/
[3]https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/play-more-cards-day/
[4]Deck of Cards lyrics © BMG Rights
Management
[6]https://www.movenourishbelieve.com/believe/10-things-can-today-nourish-relationship-danielle-dowling/
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