Today as I wake up I am 80 years old for the first time. I don’t so much feel old, as thankful for all the people who I might have helped over the years. Many of them are anonymous to me. They read a blog, hear a talk in person or in cyberspace, are helped and move on. But I sense that I made a small difference that lifted them up a little. I thank God each day that I am still a priest, given all my shortcomings. I will not retire. This day, being 80, is a gift. It has a purpose in the realm of love, acceptance, compassion, and laughter. Sometimes I just laugh at me. For now, I have the great opportunity to live in a monastery with all the unique opportunities this lifestyle offers. But I trust that there is more after my time here. Trust and surrender to God is my hope. God still has plans for me, and for you. Stay the course.
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Happy blessed birthday Father Ryan! ❤️ You are not only a beacon of light in my sobriety but my spiritual growth, thank you! You've also shown me through example that I can learn something new at any age, such as tap dancing with humor. Thank you, for you! Birthday hugs across the miles! XO :)
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday Father!
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday Fr. Terry!
ReplyDeleteHappy Happy Day
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday Father Terry! Thank you for your years of service to our Beloved and to the church. Be well ❤️
ReplyDelete🎵🎶Happy Birthday to you🎶🎵
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday from the good sister😊
ReplyDeleteHappy 80’s, Father Terry! Your years at J23 and your daily blogs are a true blessing to me and my family! God bless!!
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday!!! Your wisdom and humor from your homily’s at St. Thomas got me through some very rough times.
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday! I really enjoyed your sermons when you were at St.John XXIII parish. All the best!
ReplyDelete80 years! Happy, Happy Birthday. God Bless You Always.
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday, Terry. The opportunity to laugh with others and the ability to laugh at yourself are divine gifts.
ReplyDeleteHappy birthday from someone ten years older! Just keep moving! God bless you!
ReplyDeleteWill join you shortly, 4/13.
ReplyDeleteBlessings for a wonderful birthday and may find abundance joy throughout the year🙏
ReplyDeleteA very happy birthday to you!!!!
ReplyDeleteHappy Birthday Fr. Terry, thank you for all of your service. Hoping for more wise and funny insights. Sorry to be late but I get up before your post these days. Take care.
ReplyDeleteA priest never really retires. He just gives up onerous responsibilities and can just be a priest again. At least this has been my experience. Happy birthday, brother priest!
ReplyDelete