Global Solidarity

I believe the world is responsible for protecting any citizen of any country because we are all global citizens. Just because a person is not born within the borders of the United States, it does not mean her life is not just as valuable as an American's. Life is a precious gift that should be protected at all costs. These stories of the girl who was beheaded and the girl was shot are just two examples of the abuse of women all over the world.

When there is a natural disaster, like the disaster that occurred in Haiti, people all over the world responded with money, supplies, and volunteers. However, when something like individuals being targeted, it is just a headline. People will say it is sad and then move on with their lives. To me, events like the story I read about are just as important. Money and supplies won't solve these problems, though, which is why people may shy away from actually helping these women. These women need support and for people to lobby their governments to make a real change to protect these women.

Year of Faith

I will strive to learn more about the lives of our Saints. The Saints were people just like who tried to get closer to God. There is so much to learn from the example that these men and women set for us. They lived lives of solidarity and are hope for future generations.

Reading the Bible everyday is something that can seem impossible because our lives are so hectic, but it would really my faith in daily life. The Bible is the closest material we have linking us with the true works of Jesus. It is important to read direct passages to fully understand his Word.

Helping those in need is very important to the Catholic faith. Jesus taught about helping the dear neighbor and giving to those who are less fortunate. In order to be more like Him, we must help those that do not have as much as we do. I hope to volunteer more when I get to college and have more free time to dedicate to service.

Inviting a friend to mass is so simple. I have been invited to mass by others, and it feels nice to have someone want you there with them. Change starts at the local level. I can help the faith of others by simply asking someone to come along with my family and me to church.

Another way to live out the "Year of Faith" is to just really incorporate the teachings and Beatitudes into my everyday life. The Beatitudes offer a guide to how to live your life in a good, Christian way. It would be so easy to incorporate them into my life.