At the Foot of the Mountain

The date is set.

I have chosen January 1, 2021 (The Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God) for my first consecration to the Immaculate Heart.  November 29th, I will begin the 33 days outlined in 33 Days to Morning Glory by Fr. Michael Gaitley.  (Thanks for the book, Fr. William.)

I have ordered a brown scapular from a free source, as it seems like any time I want to take up this devotion, I suddenly have no spare money with which to purchase one.  I think it's Satan's way of trying to make sure I don't acquire a scapular, in the hopes that I will not undertake this special devotion to Our Lady.  But I have found a source that asks for no money, not even shipping costs, and for their ministry I am grateful.

The undertaking of the Carmelite way is often compared to climbing a mountain (the mountain, of course, being Mount Carmel).  There is even a famous book called Ascent of Mount Carmel, written by the great Carmelite Saint, John of the Cross.  And I do very much feel as though I'm standing at the foot of a spiritual mountain, and pitifully unprepared for the climb.  I cannot even see the summit; clouds obscure my sight.  But Our Lord, Our Lady, and the great saints of Carmel stand at my side.  Through them alone, I am hopeful of reaching the goal.