CHANGING OUR BAD HABITS

Dear young people, this week I would want to share a thought with you about habits. We all have bad habits and there is always the possibility of falling back into those bad habits. It is something we all experience at least with respect to eating or the best use of time.
One lesson probably is that it is not enough to break a bad habit; we need also to replace it with some good habit. Otherwise, the vacuum, the void or the gap invites some new evil or the return of small old bad habits. An effective change of life or repentance includes turning to something better or making some good plans, or resolutions. Time spent on sleazy reading or TV viewing needs to be replaced with time spent on more positive interests and activities.
A habit of badmouthing others or being excessively critical or mean, needs to be replaced by a habit of looking for the positive and good in others and speaking of it. Each of us can think of what needs to replace the old bad and deficient in our life and what new habit or practice needs to be taken up.
None of this is a matter of technique, but needs to be rooted in prayer and reflection leading to self-knowledge. Our falling back into old bad habits teaches us that change is never simply a matter of strong determination on our part, but change is primarily a matter of being open to God's love, grace and action in us. I wish you all every best during this week. Keep well and let me hear from you. God bless you!

VALUE WHO YOU ARE

Dear young people, I believe you are all in great shape and keeping busy with your studies as well as all the good things which bring you fulfilment. Most of all I do hope you are taking advantage of the many wonderful opportunities which come your way to be a better person in your studies and at home.
I would like to share a few thoughts with you about how special each one of us is; we have a special place in the eyes of God. Sometimes we undermine our worth and value because we dwell so much on our limitations and inadequacies. Yes, we make mistakes because we are human and not perfect. But we need also to recognize the good in us and the many abilities we have. We are capable of being better. Let us not dwell on our mistakes but rather look forward with confidence and trust in what we can achieve with our God-given abilities. Value yourself, take pride in who you are and always be mindful of the fact that there is something inherent in you given by God which is more powerful and capable than your mistakes, the Spirit of God. The Spirit of God strengthens you in your weakness and gives you strength and renews your capacity to be what God wants you be to, a better person. So my friends, let's value who we are and do not let your mistakes and limitations stop you from unleashing all the wonderful gifts and talents God has given you to live a purposeful life.
God loves and values you because you matter to Him in the scheme of everything in this world. Let's continue to renew ourselves by recognizing our worth, our value and the assurance that we are loved by God just as we are. Keep in touch and stay blessed. Have a wonderful week.