Heart to Heart

I was so worried from the moment I found out about my Dad's procedure. He said he was feeling chest pains and shoulder pains. His cardiologist recommended an angiogram.

I went to Catholic school and I remember having to pray the rosary everyday and I think once a week, we do a Novena. This was done after singing the national anthem, pledge of allegiance and morning announcements. We do this outside on the school grounds except on rainy days. Looking back, I was on autopilot during those days, at least my mortal mind thinks so. But maybe somehow some of its graces stayed with me and when our local church announced they will do a 9-day novena, I knew that I want to do it.

It's amazing how half a lifetime can change from that time in high school. Back then I couldn't wait to sit down and begin our class. Enough of this repetitive prayer and saying " Have Mercy On Us" and " Pray for us" over and over. But this time, I was more receptive. I was more at peace. I was less distracted. I asked for my Dad's safe procedure and also other things such as , may those who are jobless find jobs, may our economy recover, may the BP oilspill be resolved (and it's looking good to date hope it stays that way) and etc etc.

Contrary to popular belief amongst non-Catholics, we don't worship the Blessed Mother. We honor her and we ask for her to pray for us - ON TOP of praying to God. Tell me, when was the last time a friend or a family member or even a total stranger asked you , " Please pray for me."? The other day, I was listening to "Catholic Answers Live" where a man started attacking this Catholic practice of asking Mother Mary to pray for us. Stating it's not in the bible and she is human and she is a sinner. I was getting uneasy as I was hearing it. It was just disrespectful. If you're a decent Christian in a secular society that is witness to dozen roses, special sales every May of every year - to celebrate Mother' Day, then give some respect to the mother of whom you call your Saviour. Duh!:D You don't need to get it from the Bible to show basic respect.

My Dad had to stay the night at the hospital and my two brothers stayed with him. They put two stems in his arteries to reopen it on the day he turned 60. I am thankful that it was successful and thank you God for it. THank you for this new opportunity for my Dad and for all of us. Thank you so much.

There's a photo of my Dad's heart before and after the stem and it's posted on the refrigerator with a magnet - along side the Divine Mercy image of Jesus which shows two beams of light radiating from His heart. Dear God, may all our hearts unite with your heart.