Ave Maria! ♥

On this day, O beautiful Mother

On this day, we give thee our love

Near thee, Madonna, fondly we hover,

Trusting thy gentle care to prove

Today we celebrate the birth of the woman I strive to imitate - Mary, full of grace. :) As a gift to her (and to myself, as part of my "40 Days To A Happier, Healthier, Holier Me" project), I decided to begin these two devotions:

As Fr. Erlin wrote, "Imitating Mary is not a denial of oneself. It is a desire to be who we truly are: the image and likeness of God."

I attended the mass at the Parish of the Holy Sacrifice and during the homily, Fr. Henry Ferreras described Mary in the five letters of her very name: MARIA.

Mother - No one can replace the role of a mother in our lives. Mary is not just the Mother of our Savior, but our mother, too. At Calvary, Jesus entrusted the beloved disciple John (who represents each of us) to her care. By this act, we have the privilege to call her our spiritual mother.

Advocate - She's not just an ordinary mother, but our Mother of Perpetual Help. We can always go to her anytime. We can count on her and we are assured that she will never leave us no matter what. She was there for Jesus all throughout His human life. She is also with us until the end of time.

Reigns as Queen - We give her the highest honor because she deserves it. Her queenship lies in her humility and obedience to the will of the Father. She is worthy to be adored and imitated. All hail to the Queen of Heaven and Earth!

Immaculate - I like it better in Filipino: dalisay. Her purity of heart is exceptional. Ever-virgin. The very reason why she was chosen to be the Mother of Christ. Because only a pure woman like her can carry the Son of God.

Assumpta - She was assumed into heaven body and soul. How we wish that would happen to us, too.

Happiest birthday, Mama Mary! Thank You for the example of your life. May I also become a woman of grace, just like you are. I love You! ♥

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