Mary was so very much like the rest of us in so many ways. Her parents were responsible for her coming into the world, just like yours and mine. Her life, both before and after her marriage to St. Joseph, was exactly like the one that thousands of women living today are leading – from all outward appearances. I must remind myself frequently Lord, that you want me to be a saint. The task is not an easy one but the opportunity is there. You have given me the very same opportunities to love you, as you gave to your Mother. Help me to remember to use her life as my model. Each day, in my very ordinary existence, you send me crosses to offer up and joys to thank you for. Help me to recognize them as Mary did.
– Father John MacGuire
