Christ...the Common Bond

After my first speaking event the other night (if you haven't read "Small, but Mighty" about my experience, please do!) I really had this overwhelming feeling of being incredibly bonded with this group of people! I felt

like we had all known each other for years! We easily and happily talked about our lives and experiences. Now I know that other people in the world might feel this way when they have a common interest in a lifestyle or hobby or group...that part is pretty typical...we gravitate to people with similar ideals. But when we talked about our lives and experiences...they all included Jesus. He was the Common Bond! In my opinion, when Christ is the Common Bond...there's nothing "Common" about it! It's quite extraordinary actually!

Anytime I'm out and about in the world and I realize someone is Catholic, I immediately feel a true connection with them. It's like we're in a club...and Jesus is the leader of the group! You know how when you're in a club and there's the "secret handshake" and everyone knows the lingo and such? That's how it is in the Catholic church! Catholics have their own way of doing things. Our Sacraments and rituals are so amazing and we all

know (or hopefully know!) what they are and what they mean! It's all so familiar and safe in the most wonderful way! We've either grown up knowing all these things or have learned them when we've become fully initiated into the church and faith. They are in our heart, soul and blood! They sustain us and keep us alive!

We know when you sit, stand, kneel, pray, recite and sing. We know what to do, where to go and what order everything is in. We all have certain rules, guidelines and standards to follow. We know what the different events, feast days, ceremonies and holidays are and what they represent or mean. We can be anywhere in the world and know that all Catholics are hearing the same readings and Gospel on the same day...it BONDS us!

And all this is just part of it! It's so deep and rich in meaning...going all the way back to Jesus!

Now I know this might sound silly to you! You might be thinking, "What is she talking about?!" But please remember that I have only been Catholic for 9 years! This is all so beautiful and amazing to me! I feel SO a part of something SO big and important and life changing! I'm SO happy to be in this "Catholic Club!" I want a lifetime membership!

We have a Common Bond...and that...is CHRIST!!