Who knew that I had so much to say and would have the capability of putting all of these random thoughts and experiences of mine into words? So, a brief time out for a few thank you's to people who have helped me to come this far...
First and foremost, to God, who in His infinite wisdom allowed me to venture on these mission trips that I have to say have had a greater effect on me than anyone I may have helped. I have said it many times on this blog, but as it is an anniversary blog, I will say it again... if it were up to me, I wouldn't have ever gone to Africa, to Peru or here to the Philippines... and wouldn't that just be a great shame, a great loss for me. God has given me so much more than I have given others... truly, I am blessed!
To my grandparents, Bob and Jo Noonan and Vince and Cecilia Burkard who have passed on their faith and their love of God and Mary to their families. Not only that, but their persevering spirit, their ability to find joy in their work and how they make everyone feel welcome and accepted. I have been the recipient of so much wisdom and love from my grandparents, and while two of them are singing gloriously with the angels in heaven, I have no doubt, Bob and Cecilia are still living and thriving and loved by many in Buffalo... and in the Philippines!!
To my parents, Tom and Jean Noonan, who are amazing parents and have allowed me to cultivate my own path, meandering though it may be, and have supported me all along the way. They too have passed on their faith to their 8 children, 5 sons-and daughters-inlaw, and soon to be 46 grandchildren (including the 6 little loves living in Heaven with Jo and Vince <3) as well as many other life- affirming attributes. Without their help, I would have never been able to do my current work, so thank you!
To my brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews... whose sharing of good times and bad, laughter, joy, sorrow and love, togetherness, fellowship, trust in God and constant support of one another has given me the tools and the energy to do what I do here in the missions. It is their support that holds me up when I feel I cannot go another step... love you!
To Tom and Paula Radel who have given me the wings to fly to the missions and have taught me what I know about generosity, selfless living and truly reaching out to touch the world with God's love. They were my first, and only, missionary teachers, and are the messengers God used to touch my life and change it forever... for the better!
To my friends and supporters whose prayers and love I carry with me each and every day.... someone once told me that, when going through a particularly difficult and sorrowful time, she could actually feel the prayers of others carrying her through the hardest times. I have felt that too, and I thank you, each and every one, for your prayers. Some may think that prayers are useless... something to do when you don't know what to do, but that is so wrong. Prayers can lift people up, heal people, bring people back to Christ, give someone hope, even be the causes of miracles. Never underestimate the power of prayer. And please don't stop praying for me!!
And to all of the people I have met and worked with in the missions... I went there thinking I could possibly be of some help, that maybe I could help change lives, bring people closer to God, give them not only physical aid that is so completely needed, but also spiritual help as well. It is so true that whatever you give you get back 10 fold... I have received so much more than I have been given.
There is a little girl named Abbey living in Providence Home. She is one and a half years old and the joy of everyone remotely related to the Oikos Family. She is sooooo cute, but very shy. Every time she sees me, she shuts her eyes and smiles, and that is rare. I have been trying in little ways to win her friendship... playing peek-a-boo, singing nursery songs, doing little dances and marches around the house and making a complete fool of myself. Still, she stays away, cries when I come near. For someone who is a natural around young children and usually has no trouble winning them over, this has been a great challenge and a blow to my ego!! Anyways, last night during the novena mass for the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, Little Abbey came up to me and gave me a hug. It was worth the wait!! Hopefully we'll be best friends in no time!!
Here is a picture of Abbey with Sister Clarissa. Hopefully I'll be posting one soon of me holding Abbey!!
Thank you to everyone for your support, prayers and interest in my little life, and praise God for His love and wisdom!! xoxo
