Mottos and Mantras

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In May of this year I sent a one-page article on key sayings that have positively influenced my life. There was quite a response from readers recounting theirs.

Here is a sampling of them plus a few more from my journey. I have noted the responders by giving their first name and occupation.

“It’s grace to clearly see, to be set free, to behold truth. I’m letting go of the story that binds me; I’m letting go”– Dorothy, Catechist   (The quote is from musical artist, Jan Novotka’s , “Roots and Wings: Rising as One”).

“God never gives you more than he knows you can handle.”  “No matter how bad things may seem, there are always those in worse situations than you.”– John, Businessman.

He adds the following one, from his grandfather: “There is a fine line between confidence and cockiness. Learn to walk on that line, but lean on the confident side.”

“Our faith moves mountains. Our love moves borders. Our passion moves our will and Prayer moves God’s hands.”– Rita, Teacher

“The Word of God will not take me where the grace of God cannot protect me.”– Steve, Scientist

“Justice is the restoration of beauty to all that is broken.” –Patricia, Spiritual Direction Ministry   (The quote is from St. Bonaventure)

“Chaos is a time to be creative.”– David, Business Leadership Speaker

Looking back again on my own life, wise men and women have gifted me with sayings from the Bible, other sources, and their own life experiences. Here are some:

“God loves each of us as if there were only one of us.”– St. Augustine

Irish Jesuit author, Peter Hannan, in his insightful book, “Nine Faces of God,” offers a profound statement on God and the human person: “The image of God in us is primarily a potential to take in the love of God.”

Franciscan author and speaker, Richard Rohr, recently suggested that “made as we are in the divine image is our spiritual DNA.”

 When I find myself in the midst of a difficult time, a cross, I find the following words from the prophet Jeremiah to be particularly helpful: “I know well the plans I have in mind for you,” says the Lord, “plans for your welfare, not for woe! Plans to give you a future full of hope”(Chapter 28:11).

Max Oliva, SJ worked in Las Vegas for six years. The only Jesuit in the state of Nevada, his main ministry was called “Ethics In The Marketplace.” Now in Spokane, he has a continued involvement in Las Vegas, albeit on a part-time basis. His web site is found here - www.ethicsinthemarketplace.com

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2 Comments
  • John Montague
    Posted at 06:38h, 29 September Reply

    My mantra is “Jesus didn’t promise us happiness, but He promised us peace.”

  • Peter Bisson, SJ
    Posted at 13:40h, 29 September Reply

    Thank you Max!

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