Welcome to the Easter Triduum. As we enter the holiest days of our Church, it is good to reflect on our world and how we can have an impact. Using the power of the happiness effect, I encourage you to continue your Lenten sacrifice, especially if it has made you a better Christian. The happiness effect is research by psychologists that claim if you want to rewire your brain to do something, you need to continue that practice for at least 21 days in a row. After that, your brain is rewired to the new habit. With all of the negativity we see on the daily news (both video and print) is it any wonder that negativity reigns supreme on earth? In order to change that paradigm, you need to replace the negative with the positive. Try it yourself. Pledge to send someone close to you a daily text for the next 21 days. In that text you need to say at least two things you are thankful for that day. Have the other person repeat the process to you. See what kind of difference this can have in your life. If it works (and it will), pay it forward. Have a happy and blessed Easter!
Pope Saint John Paul II , a towering figure of the 20th century, was a staunch critic of socialist ideologies. He recognized the inherent flaws in systems that sought to control economies and societies through centralized planning and state ownership. The pontiff's teachings offered a prophetic warning against the dangers of such regimes, which often led to oppression, poverty, and the erosion of individual freedoms. Recently, a conference organized by the Catholic Association of Propagandists in Spain brought together prominent figures who echoed the concerns raised by the late Pope. Bishop José Ignacio Munilla of Orihuela-Alicante boldly declared socialism an "enemy of the cross," highlighting its incompatibility with Christian values. He emphasized the need for a spiritual renewal, urging individuals to embrace the cross as a path to true happiness and fulfillment. French philosopher Fabrice Hadjadj also addressed the challenges posed by modern society, warning ag...