I’ve had a hard time focusing on reading lately. While everyone else remembered books existed during 2020, I couldn’t get through one page without losing focus. Being the one to print the books could contribute; it’s been increasingly difficult to get the materials and labor needed to run a printing press. But I think I’ve just hit a wall, and the literal piles of books-to-read is more burdensome than exciting.

So I broke out something easy. I always liked having a daily reader, and Mother Angelica’s Life Lessons seemed easily digestible. It’s whatever you want it to be. It’s more a book of quotes than anything else, but you can read as much or as little as you want each day. Some nights I read a couple quotes and fell asleep. Other nights I went through pages, eager to hear her wisdom. This little book helped me to remember that I enjoy reading. I think of all the books I read through the conversion process, and everything I’ve absorbed since. I remember what brought me there in the first place, all that prayer and studying. This isn’t deep theology, but necessary reminders.

God wants you to be in the world, but so different from the world that you change it. Get cracking.

Intertwined in her wisdom is her humor. She’s an old, sarcastic Italian nun. She had chronic pain and wore leg braces. But she was joyful. She talks of forging ahead without a plan. She built a monastery without any startup cash, and founded EWTN without radio knowledge. But she listened to God, and answered Him. She often seems fantastical and unbelievable, but that shows how much God is in it.

I’ve had spiritual dryness for thirty-three years. But I praise God for it, because I have learned something… the terrible feelings should not make you experience guilt; in fact they purify and perfect your offering of love.

I intended to read only a few quotes a night so this could last the rest of the year, but I finished it in a couple months. I was eager to start a new book, too, so that has to mean something. (And hey, I’m revisiting this blog!) This book was a good kick in the pants, and maybe I’ll be able to get through that to-read pile. There’s some good stuff in there.

The Lord says, “I have loved you with an everlasting love.” If you remember this one truth, you will find peace in your daily life.