And everyone who listens to these words of mine…

And everyone who listens to these words of mine
but does not act on them
will be like a fool who built his house on sand.
The rain fell, the floods came,
and the winds blew and buffeted the house.
And it collapsed and was completely ruined.”

I am still shocked how time flew and its the end of the year. As advent , arguably my favorite time of the year begins —- we are to remind ourselves to focus on what is more important to us … make place in our hearts for the Lord !

Daily prayer, an advent challenge and most importantly spreading the cheer of Christmas to everyone around is very what this season is about! In addition the sugar coated goodies and the awesome amount of lights and decor uplift everyones mood… the weather is colder and its much cozier to stay in doors and snuggle in bed with a coffee and book to relax.

In Goa, as a ritual most schools take bunches of students to orphanages and old aged homes to bring in the christmas cheer, I loved it! I guess we need that cheer in our hospital in cancer struck patients too. I have a catholic nun who has been admitted with some post cancer surgery complications and we got talking – she seemed so thrilled to teach me the local language and kept asking me to pray to mother Mary — something about catholic patients clinging to their rosary is very comforting to me — shows their devotion and undying faith!

I want that faith in me even when I am free of cancer at present. I want the lord to accept my humble prayers and grant me forgiveness for the year that I had and help me push through the future with His blessings.

Let us find a deed to do everyday and fill our advent jar till its overflowing with goodness and the cheer of the season

HAppy advent everyone !

AMEN

About the Author

Hello! I’m Dr Analise Maria D’ Mello, (MBBS, MS obgyn, DNB) from the beautiful state of Goa in India. I was born and raised in a Roman Catholic family, learning my prayers, catechism and Catholic values from my parents and grandmothers. I am currently practicing as an obstetrician and gynecologist for 3 years since my residency.

I often speak on anti-abortion to college students and married couples, and counsel distressed pregnant women with appropriate medical advice. I am part of the St Luke’s Medical Guild of Catholic Doctors in my state providing services in prisons, and Lenten and advent retreats for medical professionals and their families.