Well. .  I finally have time to write about my quick last post on the motto "SEMPER FIDELIS."
(beware quite long)

The motto is what the Marines uphold in their service to the country.  If you take it into consideration, the motto can be applied to everyone's life not just those who serve the country.  Like they say, "more that a motto, a way of life."  I have taken to heart these words, especially when living out my vocation.

This special motto made its way to my heart when I was in high school.  Growing up I always felt or should say that I knew that I would be called to a life of service in one way or another.  It was not clear as to how I would live out that reality.  Keep in mind that the consecrated life was not in that reality, yet.  I always had admiration for those who served in the 5 branches of the military - Marines, Army, Navy, Air Force and the 5th (sometimes considered to be the "twig" of the branch - j/k) the U.S. Coast Guard. 

I was very drawn to the Marines because of its deep, rooted tradition of service to the country.  I considered of possibly joining the Marines.  Throughout high school, I often walked by the tables when they came to visit my high school.  I heard of their motto SEMPER FI but did not know what it meant.  I remember watching a commercial about the Marines and hearing SEMPER FI - ALWAYS FAITHFUL.  I thought to myself how awesome that is to serve your country.  Faithful to the end.  This part ends here.

My religious vocation began when I was a high school junior.  From the moment that I heard God's calling for me, there was this total openness and submission to His will for me that I can still only explain that I was truly guided by the Holy Spirit.  He is awesome!!! 

That was 2002.  My mom was not fond of my decision of entering the religious life, and so I kept quiet about it knowing that if this is what God is truly calling me to do He will grant my mom the graces to be open.  So during my 'silent' years, I asked my mom if maybe I could join the Marines after high school.  Guess what her answer was "You should! You will get the opportunity to travel the world!"  In my head, I thought "Gee, thanks. . . You would like for me to travel around the world but not allow me to enter the convent which is about 45 minutes." 

Again I kept quiet.  I did look back into my being a Marine.  When my senior year came, I realized that I could not be a Marine, and this was my decision.  I have scoliosis (my spine is not straight more like an "S").  So. . . someone with a physical disability is automatically rejected.  Basically I rejected myself first before they did.  After that revelation, my prayers were all directed towards to God's invitation for me.  (Fastfoward to now. . .)

Apparently I am not a Marine, but I continue to keep the words with me.  God did intented for me to serve others and this is the best way He wished for me to do so.  I pray to always be faithful to the end in my vocation.  I often am reminded by a voice "SEMPER FIDELIS!"  Maybe it's my guardian angel, patron saint, or my Beloved Jesus reminding my of my mission.  This is my reality. . .  I am not called to defend physically but spiritually.  I am not called to just serve my country, but EVERYONE.  THIS IS MY LIFE OF SERVICEE TO YOU.