December 24, 1955
This evening was so special, it felt like my heart was bursting with joy! Sister Mary Claire and I went to evening Mass very early so we could find time to reflect and pray in the quiet before the altar. I tucked Mini under the pew at my feet, and she curled up so peacefully that I could barely feel her there.
We brought along our little red book of meditations for Christmas, and tonight the meditation was about Our Blessed Mother preparing for the birth of Jesus. Sister Mary Claire read aloud softly, her voice warm and gentle:
“Consider how ardently the Blessed Virgin longed for the moment of the birth of her Divine Child! Her intimate union with the Lord and God of her heart, her desire to see and adore Him visibly in the flesh, her ardor to present her treasure to the world for the salvation of mankind…”
Sister Mary Claire paused and said, “Kathy, think of Mary’s heart—so full of love and hope, yet so willing to accept the poverty of that stable. She shows us that true happiness doesn’t depend on riches or comfort, but on trusting God completely. Isn’t that something to ponder as we kneel here tonight?”
I nodded, my own heart stirred by the thought. How could Mary, so young, so humble, prepare herself to hold the Savior of the world? I hope my little prayers, though small, are enough to please Jesus and Mary too.
After Mass, we walked home with Mini trotting beside us. The stars were so bright, as if they too were rejoicing for Christmas. Supper was simple but warm—a bowl of chili soup with fresh bread. The smell of the bread filled the kitchen, and it reminded me of how Mary and Joseph must have felt grateful for even the little things that night in Bethlehem.
Before bed, I knelt beside Sister Mary Claire, and we prayed together:
“O Infant Jesus, born of Mary, fill our hearts with Your peace and love. Help us to adore You with a pure heart, just as Your mother did that holy night. May we keep You close always. Amen.”
Mini curled up under my chair, wagging her little bottom as if to say, “I’m here too!” And I smiled, because tonight, everything felt just right.
Goodnight, dear diary. Merry Christmas Eve.
Love,
Kathy
Simple Chili Recipe
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
2. Stir in the beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve hot with fresh bread.
It’s simple, warm, and perfect for a Christmas Eve supper!
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