Ama's Delantar (Mom's Apron)

There's nothing more endearing than the memories I hold of Ama's delantar (Mom's apron).
It was the image of this garment that taught me about the art of serving. Actually, it is the gift from God modeled by my earthly mom.
She wore it everyday. It covered her dresses which were impeccably clean even though she gardened, scrubbed floors, and prepared meals.
I could always count on her to furnish me with a safety pin woven into her apron to make a quick repair on my skirt or pants.
From Ama's apron pocket she'd produce money to cover my school lunch or a trip to the drug store for something I needed to buy. Surely this garment was more than a cotton article-- it was an expression of love in action....

"Occupy 'Til I Come..."

I am not a very political person, but I have always tended to form some opinions on events pretty quick that seldom change. This was the case for me recently when I saw the first protest sign with the word 'occupy' in our downtown. I didn't know what the sign meant, to the person who was carrying it, but it brought to mind what it meant to me. To be occupied means keeping busy; taking care of one's own tasks. Jesus often told His disciples that they should "occupy 'til He comes (back)". For me, this means living out my life with honor and integrity. While I should speak out of injustices, I should also model what the conduct of a law abiding citizen should be. So, even though I think it's crazy that our city's street washing efforts leave my curbside as though it was never touched, I get out and clean it myself, and let the city know. The people who have camped out in our city "occupying" are an eyesore with their litter and their shabby campsites. I'd be more impressed and their views more believable to me if they got out and cleaned the streets, making the city take notice that they want things improved, not worsened by their mere presence. I know that they're very passionate about the greedy banks, but I also am very passionate that one person exhibiting upright behavior can make great strides in bringing order and beauty in a chaotic world.