a message

I have come from very far away

Just so that I could get to know you

I’ve come to take your fear out of darkness

And to solve all the problems that overwhelm you

There’s no need to cry

for I’m here to give you life

I would never do anything to hurt you

Come out of the emptiness where you hide

And feel my warm light

And feel my loving arms wrap around you……

-Wayne Monbleau-

The quote above comes from a song titled “Message of Love” by Wayne Monbleau – an old friend. It is a song that I hadn’t heard in about 20 years. For Christmas, my daughter received a turntable and we decided to go through old record albums – from the Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel, U2, Barry Manilow, Bon Jovi, Don Johnson to my collection of Christian recordings – which brought some giggles and laughs. Of course, when we came across this one, I had to listen. I immediately burst into tears. This song was pivotal in my young life as a born-again, non-denominational, Catholic Christian – my tag for myself. It brought back many wonderful memories of my crusade to find my true faith. Over the years, I often, thought of this album and the impact it had on my life.

My faith throughout the years has faltered, changed, grown, evolved. Through disappointment, sickness, injury, loss, sadness, grief, happiness, joy, contentment, and love, I have often felt alone. My Mom was one of the most devoted Christians I was blessed to have in my life. Throughout her illness, her faith remained strong and unfettered. She was a true inspiration. Yet it did not strengthen my faith. For me, it was a slow awakening – a constant healing. It opened my eyes to everything around me – friends, family, society. I do not define my relationship with God through a church or a religion anymore. How I practice and where I practice remains between me and God – no one else. I no longer feel alone as the lyrics to “Message of Love” play in my heart and mind, I am constantly reminded of Jesus’ promise and his unconditional love for me and you.