It was a Christmas almost thirty years ago when I listened to my friend Eileen present a talk focused on Mary, mother of Jesus. It was about this same time that I had also been thinking about Mary and I recall listening to Eileen with rapt attention. Personally, I have long considered intentional motherhood to be the most important and vital profession on this planet (with well-executed fatherhood a close second). Therefore, as mother of Jesus, Mary must be the most exceptional woman to have ever lived.
I had not thought to share how Mary’s words have impacted me these last months but with Christmas approaching it seems appropriate.
Luke quotes her, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word.”
Be it unto me. Just a few weeks after Mark’s passing I began to accept the reality of the drastic changes taking place. My life was altered and I would have to deal with it, like it or not.
These words of Mary came into my head and into my heart. I’m not comparing myself to this righteous and holy woman, but her acceptance of this drastic change in her life seemed to set an example of behavior that I could understand.
Mary went “with haste” to see her cousin Elizabeth. I haven’t felt any sort of haste. On the contrary I have felt more of a sense of calm and patience regarding my own steps forward. (Haste will probably show up later.)
Be it unto me…. I guess I felt like sharing these thoughts because they apply to every one of us every day. This is how I am seeing it:
In what circumstances do I find myself? What should I do about my circumstances? What can I do? What will I do?
Alright – I’m now on a flight between Atlanta, GA and Columbia, SC. There is a song from the play “Oklahoma” that popped up into my head and I’m thinking, “Whatcha gonna do?”
Supposin’ that you have a day of sunshine and friendship – whatcha gonna do?
Supposin’ that you are sick in bed and it is raining – whatcha gonna do?
Supposin’ that you lost your job – whatcha gonna do?
Supposin’ that you have loved ones making choices that you know will lead to misery – whatcha gonna do?
Supposin’ this – Supposin’ that… whatcha gonna do?
Death has given me a greater awareness of life. Every day is precious and the way we choose to live each day matters.
Whatcha gonna do?
We must’ve looked something like this when Eileen gave her talk on Mary. How many days have passed since then! How many daily decisions, both good and bad, have shaped our character and our destiny!
Learning-Laughing-Loving-Life 
Corrine, That picture is exactly how I picture you and Mark. You still look the same!! The kids have just gotten bigger. Thanks for your uplifting words. I think of Mary sometimes and what a difficult task that was given to her, yet what a divine privilege. I hope I can live life more clearly even though I haven’t experienced a recent death. Your views give me hope and strength every time I read your words. Thanks for being the person you are. Hope you and your family have a Merry Christmas. Your first one without Mark here, but I know he will be with you all orchestrating when you’ll all be together. It was so fun to talk to you at lunch the other week. Love Laura
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