Ave Maria~Dolce Maria

"Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with Thee. Blessed art Thou among women and blessed is the Fruit of Thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death, Amen."

Mary, still today, endures skepticism from many (many churches don't even acknowledge her importance). She was a single mother who raised a exceptional child in a non-traditional home with a committed foster father named Joseph.

They were a "non-traditional" family who shared a lot of love and endured a tremendous amount of pressure and hardship. This sounds like most families today. As a mother, I'm sure Mary felt very confused, like many women (and mothers) today. The family dynamic is so varied. Single mothers, working mothers, stay at home mothers...the list goes on.

I'm sure Joseph was confused, too. Even today, many men wonder, "How can I provide for my family?" I'm sure Joseph would have preferred to shelter Mary in a warm, safe inn to give birth to her child, rather than in the cold barn with the farm animals. Imagine how this made Joseph feel as a man and protector.

We're all trying to be "normal" or "perfect." Religion is not about being "perfect." So, at the time, I respectfully feel that it is safe to say that Jesus' family was dysfunctional. I mean, who had foster fathers? Who had virgin mothers? Each family is unique and we should embrace that. If you've gotten away from the church, or your faith, I would encourage you to take some time this holiday season to really explore ways to get back. No one is perfect.

When you look at the nativity scene this Christmas, I hope you will see it a little bit differently than ever before. This dysfunctional family made it work. They made it work because they loved one another and they had faith in God.

And so, Hail Mary, Sweet Mary, for the sacrifices you so lovingly made and for giving up your only Son so our sins may be forgiven. Ave Maria, Dolce Maria!