Caught On Higher Ground

Rolling up our sleeves for the Homeless in Ottawa

2008-03-10T19:14:00.000-04:00

Wow!!! What a day! We organized an event with over 25 women who were more than willing to help the homeless and it was extraordinary that within hours we have over the number required to hold this event. Amazing really! In my past I have organized events often and never had such a great turnout! Who knew we would have a huge snow storm! No problem! Women know how to move mountains to make things happen! I had faith that this would not be a big deal. WHOOPS! At 5am Sunday morning I awoke and put my coat on overtop of my pajamas and started digging out the waist deep snow at my front yard so I could arrive at the Shepherds of Good Hope in time for 8am. Well it was heavy and hard and never have I had so much snow in my driveway! So, I did what any mother would do.... I woke up my 17 year old son to help me dig out of our driveway. Which he did! Without a word, he got out of bed and helped. We shoveled just the area we needed to get the car onto the road and then proceeded to get stuck on the driveway as there was ice underneath the snow. A man who was stuck further down the street, came and offered to help. We just couldn't get the car to move, so we managed to get it back onto the driveway enough so that if the plows came by, it would not be in the way and I went in to get dressed to take the bus to downtown. No big problem, I had time. I just didn't expect that there would be so many emails from people calling that they were sick, stuck or for lots of reasons were not able to attend. I thought...wow...how are we going to feed 400 people without any volunteers? I knew they were depending on us to be there and regardless of the weather, the homeless would still be looking to be fed. Like every mother, I would not want to know that my children were on the street without a warm place to go on such a night/ day as this. My son decided to join me as I have not used the bus system in quite some time. We managed to arrive at 9am and I was so thrilled to see that although many had not been able to come, we had enough to serve the people who arrived and peel the potatoes, make the salads and do the dishes. I can tell you that we were all moved by the brothers and sisters we saw this day. I was seeing people that I have seen before and some new ones as well. One in particular was a young woman probably in her twenties. She had pants on that had a hole in her rear and was asking for a pair of pants to replace them. It was very very cold and I looked closely to see that the pants were pj bottoms that were not very warm. I was given the key to go to the clothing section of donated clothes. When I saw that she was so cold and her body was shivering I was not going to let her go back outside without some warmer clothes. She didn't want anyone to think she had stolen any clothes!!! But I told her that no one was going to give her a hard time because we would all want her to be warm enough and that I was fully prepared to give her whatever she needed to keep her warm. When she took off her jacket I realized it was a spring jacket and all she had on underneath was a tank top. Her blue lips were blue for a reason. She was so cold because she did not have any clothes to keep her warm and was unable to have anyone hear her requests for clothing was not that she wanted to be fashionable, although that is what kept her acceptable to her peers. I was wondering how she had kept warm and thankful to be in a place to offer her unbiased assistance.She moved me to realize as a reflection of myself, exactly what I would be like if I had no money. Often I have known wealthy businessmen who have been on the street when their businesses failed and no pension income to support them, they begin again. As a business woman I am aware of how often this happens but that pride prevents them from telling their story of what happened. I met someone who is an author who works at the Shepherds of Good Hope and he told our group a story of a young business woman who struggled for her own identity at a young age she lost her parents. What would you do? How do we cope when life hits us square in the face. When we don't have guidance, what does the human spirit do? It survives, but it could also thrive....given the right ingredients. Over the years that I have participated with the homeless, I have been learning so much from them. I can tell you that the women that came on this snowy day to roll up their sleeves and serve the homeless, took away great wealth of how we can be with one another. Not in judgement, but living from their hearts. IT was a heartwarming day for everyone. Warm in the bellies and warm in the heart. A warm coat to take away and a Joyful feeling at least for a few moments, to remember that we are all equally walking our own paths. When we fall we are not alone, when we succeed we are not alone. But we have each other, holding hands and remembering to be ONE.
God Bless YOU

Wedding Palace Bridal Show in Ottawa

2008-01-14T08:26:00.001-05:00

WOW what GREAT ENERGY! Kudos to the Wedding Palace team for putting on such a marvelous event! This last weekend I had the chance to be a keynote speaker at THE event for Brides at the Congress Centre. It was wonderful to be surrounded by positive upbeat people all focused on the loving energy that makes one day very special. I want to thank all who came to hear me speak and support my book and especially I would like to thank Sun Life for sharing their space with me for the book signing at their booth. May the energy that surrounds this event uplift us all to that place where Love transcends all else! Thank YOU!!! I will share pictures soon!

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY EVENT

2008-01-14T08:13:00.000-05:00

"It's not enough to have lived. We should be determined to live for something. May I suggest that it be
creating joy for others, sharing what we have for the betterment of person kind, bringing hope to the lost
and love to the lonely."
Leo Buscaglia
WBN WOMEN ROLL UP THEIR SLEEVES
FOR THE HOMELESS

There will be twenty-five women from WBN going to the
Shepherds of Good Hope kitchen to help feed the homeless in
support of International Women’s Day on March 9, 2008.
Support this initiative. Register today!
A small cost of $10.00 and you get to wear—and keep
the burgundy apron with the WBN logo.
WHY?
1. We are a group of successful women
who stand for a variety of values
including care of our community.
2. Many women are homeless in our
streets. These are our sisters who have
fallen on very hard times.
3. The International Women’s Day is
an annual occurrence when hundreds
of events around the world converge to celebrate women’s advancement and
the collective power of women past, present and future.
4. We are the fortunate and we can.
WHEN, WHERE?
March 9, 2008
8:30 am to 1:15 pm
INFORMATION & REGISTER?
Call Kathleen Caught 613-327-7004 or
Deanna Rutherford 613-829-9102
Women’s Business Network Association of Ottawa
200-435 St. Laurent Blvd., Ottawa, ON K1K 2Z8
Tel: 613-749-5975 Fax: 613-745-8753
info@womensbusinessnetwork.ca
Ot t awa ’ s L e a d i n g Ne two r k o f Wome n i n B u s i n e s s
http://www.womensbusinessnetwork.ca/

2007-09-29T15:45:00.001-04:00

Such fun! I recently launched my book and CTV and Rogers interviewed me last week.

A Channel will be interviewing me on October 19th and I will be giving away copies of the book to those in attendance. It is just a small little book but it is packed with all the ingredients you need to have a happy process in discussing finances and purchasing a home! Why did I write it? Because it was needed. So much information and who to trust. Well, if I was willing to put it in writing then I must believe it, right? You don't have to agree with what I have written but you might want to spend the $14.95 to have as a guide in your pocket while you contemplate the process. Purchase the book at http://www.marriagestomortgages.com/

And GUYS!

Buy the book and seek to understand THEN to be understood! Listen to what your girlfriend is learning while she reads the book!
Anyone that books their mortgage with me will receive a copy of the book from me free!

Win your Marriage!

2007-02-22T14:55:00.000-05:00

On February 26 KISS FM will open their Win a Wedding Contest at http://www.1053kissfm.com/weddingguide/guides.jsp?content=mtom.jsp and Kathleen Caught will be the officiant for the wedding. See http://marriagestomortgages.com
You will also be able to obtain the ebook From Marriages to Mortgages to help couples through financial aisles as well! Hope to see you there!!! Maybe it will be YOUR wedding that I support you with!

Worlds' Biggest Virtual Hug

2007-01-11T17:40:00.000-05:00

World's Biggest Virtual Hug

Currently 38276 hugs are pledged for this January 21

On January 21st 1986 National Hugging Day was founded in the U.S.A. It has spread all over the world and is called by many names - Hug Day, World Hug Day, Send a Hug Day, International Hug Day, and even Hug a Bear Day!

This global 'virtual' Hug for Peace celebrating World Hug Day is your opportunity to show the world that 'peace begins with me'. We want to reach millions of people in the simplest heartfelt way that is possible, a hug! Go here to make your pledge for your hugs on January 21st:

http://www.worldpeace.org.au/readcyber.asp

and
you gotta see this video! What a guy!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vr3x_RRJdd4&mode=related&search=

Volunteer Services Overseas

2006-12-27T10:11:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year to all and may Peace Prevail on Earth!

I have recently become one of the assessment officers volunteering with VSO (Volunteer Services Overseas) and have increased my awareness of wonderful work that is being done all over the world. It is a humbling experience to be with such amazing human beings who volunteer their time around the world helping in development areas. This experience is enriching my life and inspiring me to consider similar work in my future. I hope you will take a look for yourself and feel the joy that their gifts have brought to the world. here are some examples of areas they are looking for:

If you are a fundraiser with two years' experience, some of the world’s poorest nations need your skills. Recently we have received a large number of requests from our overseas partners for fundraisers, in countries such as Zambia, South Africa and India. Using your skills you’ll help overseas organisations to maximise their income generating strategies and ensure their development and sustainability.
Necessary qualifications and experience
You’ll need a degree in any subject or a related professional qualification, combined with a minimum of two years’ relevant experience. Knowledge of developing fundraising strategies and writing funding proposals are essential. You’ll be experienced in identifying new donors and maintaining existing relationships, as well as developing the communication materials.
Types of opportunity available
Most of our requests come from small non-government organisations and involve developing income generation schemes, such as orchestrating fundraising events, including donor management, the delivery of donor communications and proposal development. Organisations in need of your skills tend to be focused around the area of HIV and AIDS, but we do receive from request from organisations in a variety of sectors.

High demand
Last updated: 10/11/2006 10:04:00

Fundraising Adviser - Thailand
The Peace Way Foundation is devoted to a peaceful resolution to the Burma struggle for human rights and democracy. You'll use your fundraising or marketing experience to seek new funding opportunities and ensure the sustainability of their projects.
Read the full job description:

Bullet. Fundraising Adviser - Thailand(pdf, 43kb)

High demand
Last updated: 10/11/2006 10:09:00

Senior Fundraiser - Ghana
PRIDE's aim is to improve child welfare and to ensure a better future for disadvantaged children in Northern Ghana. They are looking for an experienced fundraiser with management skills to improve funding for their projects.
Read the full job description:

Bullet. Senior Fundraiser - Ghana(pdf, 41kb)

High demand
Last updated: 10/11/2006 10:11:00

Fundraiser - Ethiopia
Handicap National Action is looking for a an experienced fundraiser or marketing professional to train staff and implement a fundraising strategy. You'll contribute to the organisation's important work to ensure a better quality of life for disabled children.
Read the full job description:

Bullet. Fundraiser - Ethiopia(pdf, 45.6kb)

High demand
Last updated: 05/09/2006 16:57:00

Senior Fundraiser in Zambia
You’ll help Chismo Home-Based Care develop a strategic approach to fundraising and provide financial stability for their essential work with HIV and AIDS patients. Required: 3 years’ experience developing funding proposals and donor management. Read the full job description:

Bullet. Fundraiser - Zambia(pdf, 53.6kb)

What next?
Once you have confirmed that we are recruiting in your skill area, please move on to STEP TWO (The VSO experience), or STEP THREE (Apply now or order information).

Search again
You can refine your search by using different keywords.

If you don't find the type of opportunity you are looking for, please contact the VSO Response Unit for further assistance. Alternatively, please check these pages again soon for new opportunities.
Other ways to get involved

Visit our awareness and action pages to see some of the other ways you can get involved with VSO.

©VSO unless otherwise stated | Click on photos for details | Privacy Statement | UK Registered Charity No: 313757

Life is a description of our own thoughts?

2006-08-16T07:30:00.000-04:00

To all that take the moment to read this. Remove all thoughts and sit in the silence of Life. We are bombarded with external influences. More and more I see this in my own life and wonder who really is at the core of this being? How can I possibly like myself if I think that the world around me is me. I am not my thoughts and not what is before my eyes...therefore...who am I? Well it is a question asked by the more learned to the least learned..we all are this question. I am choosing to love me. I have chosen to pour my love into others as well. I am choosing to continue to love but not to look into my creation to see the results but to look at that which created me and be thankful. Here is a picture of a recent wedding I was privileged to perform. The couple express their love to one another with ease and their reflection was such a wonderful place to be present. I am sharing this moment with you as my gift of love. I hope you feel the warmth and know I send it to you with my personal joy, Kathleen

A lovely view!

2005-12-20T08:00:00.000-05:00

"there is a light on high, that is visible in all creatures
Formed by the Creator
and whoever embraces it finds Peace.
then Peace spreads in a circular form,
extending its circumference
becoming as vast
as the solar ring.
And in semblance to it, throws its rays,
reflecting off the peak of the Primordial Beginning.
Drawing from there, vitality and power.
And like a hill that stands in water
where its beauty is reflected.
while its tributary overflows with flowers and greenery.
Bathing everything about it in Light,
I observe a thousand mirrors
reflecting to us from the heights,
radiating to even to the smallest creature,
encompassing everything within its luminous greatness.
How vast is the width,
At the end of the Rose's petals!
Within the yellow of the Eternal Rose
that spreads and increases, is exhaled a scented prayer
within the
Center of the Vernal Sun,
where something remains silent which one speaks of with delight,
My Beatrice, the Dew of the Rose!

THE DIVINE COMEDY - DANTE

A comment from a friend of mine!

2005-12-20T07:52:00.000-05:00

Deep Peace to YOU, Kathleen

As you well know, we are getting closer to my birthday. Every year
there is a celebration
in my honor and I think that this year the celebration will be
repeated. During this time there are many people shopping for gifts, there
are many radio announcements, TV commercials, and in every part of the world
everyone is talking that my birthday is getting closer and closer.
It is really very nice to know, that at least once a year, some people
think of me. As you know, the celebration of my birthday began many years
ago. At first people seemed to understand and be thankful of all that I did
for them, but in these times, no one seems
to know the reason for the celebration. Family and friends get
together and have a lot of
fun, but they don't know the meaning of the celebration.

I remember that last year there was a great feast in my honor. The
dinner table was full of delicious foods, pastries, fruits, assorted nuts
and chocolates.The decorations were exquisite and there were many, many
beautifully wrapped gifts. But, do you want to know something? I wasn't
invited. I was the guest of honor and they didn't remember to send me an
invitation.

The party was for me, but when that great day came, I was left
outside, they closed the door in my face......... and I wanted to be with
them and share their table.

In truth, that didn't surprise me because in the last few years all
close their doors to me.
Since I was not invited, I decided to enter the party without making
any noise. I went in
and stood in a corner.They were all drinking; there were some who were
drunk and telling jokes and laughing at everything.They were having a great
time. To top it all, this big fat
man all dressed in red wearing a long white beard entered the room
yelling Ho-Ho-Ho! He seemed drunk. He sat on the sofa and all the children
ran to him, saying : "Santa Claus,
Santa Claus"... as if the party were in his honor !

At 12 midnight all the people began to hug each other; I extended my
arms waiting for someone to hug me and... do you know... no one hugged me.
Suddenly they all began to share gifts.They opened them one by one with
great expectation.When all had been opened,
I looked to see if, maybe, there was one for me. What would you feel
if on your birthday
everybody shared gifts and you did not get one? I then understood that
I was unwanted at that party and quietly left.

Every year it gets worse. People only remember to eat and drink, the
gifts, the parties and nobody remembers me. I would like this Christmas that
you allow me to enter into your life.

I would like that you recognize the fact that almost two thousand
years ago I came to this world to give my life for you, on the cross, to
save you.Today, I only want that you believe this with all you heart. I want
to share something with you. As many didn't invite me to their party, I will
have my own celebration, a grandiose party that no one has ever imagined, a
spectacular party.

I'm still making the final arrangements.Today I am sending out many
invitations and there is an invitation for you. I want to know if you wish
to attend and I will make a reservation for you and write your name with
golden letters in my great guest book. Only those on the guest list will be
invited to the party. Those who don't answer the invitation, will be left
outside.

Do you know how you can answer this invitation? It is by extending it
to others whom you care for...
I'll be waiting for all of you to attend my party this year...
See you soon....I love you !

- Christ -

On Higher Ground-Phillippians 3:14

2005-12-20T07:50:00.000-05:00

I’m pressing on the upward way,
New heights I’m gaining every day
Still praying as I onward bound
Lord, Plant my feet on higher ground.
Lord, lift me up and let me stand,
By faith on Heaven’s table land
A higher plane than I have found
Lord plant my feet on higher ground.

My heart has no desire to stay
Where doubts and rise and fears dismay
Through some may dwell where these abound
My prayer my aim is higher ground

Lord, lift me up and let me stand,
By faith on Heaven’s table land
A higher plane than I have found
Lord plant my feet on higher ground.

I want to live above the world
Though Satan’s darts at me are hurled
For faith has caught the joyful sound
The song of saints on higher ground.

Lord, lift me up and let me stand,
By faith on Heaven’s table land
A higher plane than I have found
Lord plant my feet on higher ground.

I want to scale the utmost height
And catch a gleam of glory bright
But still I’ll pray till heaven I’ve found
Lord, lead me on to higher ground.

Lord, lift me up and let me stand,
By faith on Heaven’s table land
A higher plane than I have found
Lord plant my feet on higher ground.

ahhhhhhhhhhhh

2005-11-25T04:06:00.000-05:00

Well one son married and a brand new Daughter in Law. Here I sit in wonder of how the tapestry of the Creator brings together those that can be so loving! It was a fantasy wedding. In addition to the beauty radiating from the bride, there was pure evidence of love and amore in the air. How simply delightful to be able to see such beauty in the young and the old! A sacred wedding brings out the best in everyone doesn't it? We can learn much from Love displayed. It really is infectious and spreads like a virus!!! I extend to Dave and Kelly a life filled with Joy and Laughter and Grandchildren!!!!!!!!!! (lol and xox )

Now I begin the baking for Christmas. We do a Christmas cookie exchange at work and everyone is gearing up for the Bake Off! I made four dozen last night and will spend the weekend in flour and wonderful smells in my house! The Christmas decorations have been brought up from the basement and the house is about to be transformed into a starlit radiance of Light.

Sometimes simple things rekindled from days gone by can bring back what we once enjoyed so much.

May this Love find you in your seeking and bring you Peace on Earth this day and all the days to come! Deep Peace, Kathleen

Hurricane Wilma...MOVE OVER!

2005-10-21T09:05:00.000-04:00

Ok...so my son is getting married in Key Largo Florida on November 5th. Do you think we could have a little less drama? The largest hurricane recorded??? You have got to be kidding right? I plan the biggest event of my life to take a Peace Walk in Europe and all my cash is now going to paying for the costs to go to my son's wedding and we are having a major hurricane? No one is going to believe this is true! But..it is!!! A 4 day wedding leaving November 2nd and returning November 6th. Stay posted...the story continues. Anyone wondering about Peace these days??? Almost becomes anti-climatical next to Mother Nature's story all around us. How many natural disasters are there going to be in 2005?

Pictures of Vatican City prayers

2005-10-11T21:13:00.000-04:00

This is a picture taken at the end of our journey..tired campers and we are being surrounded by the Vatican police asking us to dispurse...ok..I was thinking that I really didn't need to spend time worrying about my trip home if I was arrested for saying prayers in Vatican City...hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm....but security is important and noticeable that one is always being watched in Vatican City.
coming into Assisi joined by others. WE carried their torch with us on our journey..Right after this picture was taken, the skies opened up and poured down buckets of water. Which brought the peace walk to an end.
A part of the Cloth of Many Colours that was carried each day by peacewalkers as we travelled from Assisi to Rome. This is at the beginning in Assisi. It is part of a mile long quilt that has travelled to many places in the world
Evidence..there really were poodles and penguins!!!Not just my imagination!

technical difficulties

2005-10-09T18:46:00.000-04:00

My apologies...there was some difficulty over the last few weeks with our site...but we are back..thanks to some wonderful helpers (family and friends) we have managed to figure out what the problems were...I think!!!
Ok, you might have guessed I am back from Italy now and my mind still wants to be in Italy. What a wonderful place and the contrast with being back to work vs working at peace is mind boggling. There were so many lessons learned and the easy ones were sore muscles. The harder ones were running into yourself and your own ego on a journey for peace. Seems this is the place that was always at an unrest. With a beautiful gift of Italy surrounding us, we took the walk to uncover all that it takes to find Peace. When you are tired and hungry the world becomes a different place. When chaos is happening all around and your comforts have been removed...one is less likely to be receptive to change.

It became interesting for me, as I have spent my career helping others through emotional and financial struggles to see how a lack of a bath to soak the troubles of the day away was noticeably missing. How a Tim Horton's drivethru had become a part of my day. And WOW did I miss a Dairy Queen strawberry milkshake!!! Not that I didn't love the gelato, I really did but the small comforts were appreciated upon my return.

There have been many emails that have been exchanged amongst those that took the walk. We are still formulating what actually happened as there were so many perspectives. Thousands of pictures exchanged and the stories are developing. �q*4p-:,+a*-a1+@');">Detail...

Red Noses to sore toes Day 3

2005-09-14T09:19:00.000-04:00

hello all....today is day 3 and the body is having a few complaints, but only one blister so far. buns of steel here I come. The scenary is out of this world..many times I hear the comment, why would anyone want to go anywhere else...it is just lovely to turn around on the road and see yourself surrounded by the most gentle mountains and cities popping out of the mountain. Just lovely...most people are driving by honking waving and shouting encouraging words...how do I know what they are saying??? cuz there have been some Italians join us who affirm they are reaching out to us. Almost every car waves or honks..amazing. We have people from approx 22 different countries with us. The peace walk that came in on Sunday has shown me a new perspective. We were wondering about a few images we were seeing and wondering what it had to do with peace but we were walking with our own message and singing John >Lennon songs...all we are saying...some were joining in...others were showing an aggravation.. I was glad >I was wearing Canadian clothes and hat when I understood later what was happening. Some of our group joined in wearing red noses by putting lipstick on their noses. I didn,t have the right colour so I did not. Yesterday at dinner there was a woman from the media sitting next to me and I was telling her how cute they all looked acting like clowns at a peace walk. I found out that the red noses meant they were from the communist party of Italy...so so much for clowns. there is an election here in October and there is much conversation about Bush and the war here...all negative...so the canada hats and stickers have become very popular here for the walkers...all the canadians have really been appreciative and some of the americans have taken to representing themselves as canadians. Nasty graffiti that is anti american is everywhere especially I noticed in Rome on every statue, but also in these small towns. We were in Trevi last night..I am so tired I am not sure what town I am in but it starts with an S...Hotel Charleston, is where we are staying I think..they are having an art exhibit across the street and there are red penguin statues in every window and giant sized red poodles on either side of the door entrance..we had a good laugh after a long day walking in the sun...we thought we were delirious, so it was hysterical to see them there greeting us!! Every town we come to has the most incredible clothes and I wish I could spend some money getting a whole new wardrobe!! They are really something the fashion here...small town or not!

The beds are small the rooms are small there have been no baths but showers that leak on the floor so a sense of humour and a great roommate from France with British background has been a real god send...she has children the same age and is single also, so we are having a good time getting to know one another and encouraging each other to keep going. She keeps the same pace and we are at the front of the pack each day finishing before the others that are walking...we also have some that are joining us each day by bus as they have trouble with crutches and old age...there are all ages shapes and sizes here...it is a hoot to see what lilfe has created. Amazing young men and women that blow my mind with their wisdom!!! Truly a treat.

End of Day One

2005-09-12T09:38:00.000-04:00

ok...feet hurt. Got lost a couple of times but we are real troupers. Rained most of the day. Just as we found the hotel, it poured buckets so I am glad we were here. I seem to have lost my umbrella, so I hope I find it for tomorrow,as there will be many days of rain. Lovely countryside and great people. A good night sleep will be very good as tomorrow there are many uphills to be done. gotta go...lineup for the internet. Ciao, Kathleen

Day One of the Walk

2005-09-12T00:53:00.000-04:00

We had a taste of what will be yesterday joining 500,000 others walking for peace in Assisi. We joined them and brought our cloth of many colours with us. As we had with us the bride and groom that had been married in the morning by Jimmy Twyman of the Beloved Community...there was much to be excited about. I will add later, but there are many wanting to use the computer so I must be breif. Much excitement, much love...see you later

The Journey of Peace

2005-09-06T17:18:00.000-04:00

We are now in Assisi, the beginning of the same journey St. Francis took 800 years ago. The physical town of Assisi is just simply amazing. The buildings are beyond the descriptions of words as the tranquilty of this place stuns the mind. We had a wonderful dinner on the terrace overlooking the valley and watching the sun set below the intertwined vines as our roof. Tomorrow we will travel to the place where St. Francis rebuilt his first church and be inspired for this walk. We will meet with another group there in the meadow to pray for each country the prayer of peace. I have received from my son today a copy of an email from his friend James,who has now left for Iraq. A young man who is going to follow the path of those that he honours that stood for freedom before him. His journey for Peace is as ours is. He choose one path and I choose another. Both will lead to the same place. I honour his choice and offer my prayers for protection of all young men. May we learn on this earth another way. Another way to be with one another and to put down that which we call weapons. I once had a dream that women were holding hands with one another and the young men were dropping their weapons when the came to the circle and joined the hands of those that were being held. Let us form circles of peace with one another and with our hearts joined as one, there will be peace. Shall we?

The quest for Beauty wherever it may be

2005-09-05T07:26:00.000-04:00

I should have known something was up when I got into the elevator today to see a camerman preparing to meet his story.

The hotel is holding the prequalifying contests for Miss Italy and there were many beautiful young women at breakfast in the Holiday Inn! We are so smart and yet so unbelieveably naive in the observation of true beauty. Each one of these girls about to present themselves as beautiful next to a landscape that once was the epitomy of beauty. From a beauty pageant to a work of art. My observation of Europe is saddened by the vandalism that I see on almost every statue and work of art. How sad that we are not able to view the true beauty of such amazing efforts from our collective past without a message sent from a paint can interrupting that which was truly given of love. So incredible to sense a loss of respect for that which has been before us. Not so different from the sadness of our brothers and sisters from Louisiana. My heart sees both and acknowledges the true beauty in both parts of the world that is before me. Beauty is not just surface deep, as I can see beyong the vandalism and still understand the beauty the artist was projecting. I see it also in the grace of the faces of those who find their loved ones that they thought were lost. It is in the grace of the stranger who offers to help an old woman onto a waiting stretcher. It is in the grace of our own hearts singing the song of love. Being peaceful and sending you love, Kathleen

no Elton but yes to Firenze

2005-09-04T09:12:00.000-04:00

After walking and walking and walking...12 hours all together, there were so many people at the concert and the distance was too far to see anything..so no to Elton. But today Firenze is the inspiration of dreams come true...talk to you later about it gotta go, Kathleen

Saturday morning in Rome

2005-09-03T06:39:00.000-04:00

how lovely...I have found an internet cafe where I am listening to recording artists upstairs singing their songs while I type my message. Really lovely!!! To hear Italian love songs being song is such a wonderful way to spend a Saturday morning. After I am finished writing this blog I will sit outside in the warm sun and sip a cappucinno before walking up the street to the Vatican city. This morning I took a wrong turn after the bus let us off and ended up in the less desireable area of Rome so I decided to walk along the water which I thought was leading me to the older part of the city...I was wrong. I did meet some interesting people living by the water's edge but not in hotels, in make shift accomodations made from old rugs and sheets. they were well equiped mind you with pots and pans and all the necessary utensils. I continued my walk and very close by were very expensive apartments and wealth. Funny how close we are to each other...without really looking... I did find my way to the metro and to my destination...just a 2 hour stroll into another aspect of life. It was a lot quieter there than in the older part of the city preparing for the Elton John concert tonight. I am off...time for a cappucinno. ciao for now, Kathleen

Relief for Louisiana and wanderings of Rome

2005-09-02T13:17:00.000-04:00

Hello All,

Rome is quite the city to get lost in and so that's exactly what I did today. In preparation for the spiritual walk, I have walked 4 hours today without stopping. In Rome, that is easy to do. So much to see all around. My camera has been busy but the internet available here does not accomodate pictures so that will be upon my return. Beauty is everywhere. IN the sculptures, the churches the landscape and the people. The inner city is so lovely with those that are working in the shops very helpful and loving. The paparazzi is rather bold though and not quite so enjoyable to see, but there seems to be a few notables around. Tomorrow, there is a free Elton John concert at the coliseum so I hope to find a place nearby to watch. Everyone here says to get there 12 hours before the concert...but there is so many things going on in this city all at the same time, being anywhere is a good thing. I hope to go to Firenze on Sunday as everyone has suggested that I take that journey to see the creative spirit at work. Ciao for now...Kathleen

An update from my Rose Cross sister in New Orleans

2005-09-02T08:18:00.000-04:00

Night between thursday and Friday, sept 2nd, 2005
> More news, last ones. my son Nathan arrived from New Orleans,
after 48 hours of cruising. the water is now so very polluted by
now, with gasoline, human waste, corpses,etc., that the police
forced them at gun point to leave.After having found a group of
humans in distress, both he and his friend, were pulling some to
higher ground with the little bateau(fishing boat);he was not
allowed to go and continue his rescue-hence a horrible guilt takes
place-that of not doing all the best;many people have given up on
life by throwing themselves in the water-and they just had to
watch...
we are the Strong Ones- we must always show our special kind of
courage, because we are privileged to have found our way to a
better education:that of the Order-throughout the centuries, these
unknown Ones have done heroic things which have never been
acknowledged in school books-we must always continue their mission-
NON NOBIS SOLUM-
Brothers and sisters, Life is full of people who need us: we must
always distinguish ourselves silently by showing our noble
mind,giving much, expecting nothing, and go on finding more to do.We
are the pillars of strength- That's the best message I can offer-Be
attentive to the needs of your fellowmen-Do not wait until they beg
for help: find them wherevere they are and do much- That's love,
pure and simple- Think of Louisiana, think of those who-67%of us
down there-who did not have cars, money, and place to go-hence they
stayed in their attics, with their dogs of misery, just praying for
miracles that did not come.

Hurricane Katrina and Rome

2005-09-02T03:09:00.000-04:00

I have just arrived in Rome and for the first time, I am seeing the news about Hurricane Katrina and the devastating and horrific human conditions are prevailing in this area. The news I had heard before but the conditions are more difficult than I had imagined. When we were leaving the spiritual gathering of the Rose Cross, one of our sisters was returning home to Boca Raton, Louisianna and I had heard the storm was hitting her area. On our email group the posting went up for spiritual aid for the area. Now we will need to really offer more as globally we are affected by each thing happening on earth. The UN spokesperson spoke of the weather conditions around the world being more and more severe, so it makes one realize how important practising kindness and compassion for each other really is. I have copied the email from my Rose Cross sister from Louisianna for you to hear about the conditions in her home town.

Kathleen: just got my cable, tele, telephone back, so I rush to say that we have the privilege of being OK.; our house is fine, but some other parts of town are destroyed. There is plenty to do here, and I worked as a volunteer, whereever I could today. My son is cruising the streets of N.O. with a small fishing boat,and saves as many human and pets as he can, trapped in attics, along with his best friend.Once we start we feel awful to take a break-
It was so wonderful in Spain! I try to think of this instead of sadness, because it is my nature to always show strength and leadership, but I weep on the 3rd world misery which is ours. THANKYOU ALL, it's so good to read your concerns, and I knew you would all be thinking of me and my family-while having no electricity nor cable.Thank you for all spiritual aid; we are desperately in need of it right now.

hola from valencia

2005-08-29T06:02:00.000-04:00

and here we are at an internet cafe. it is monday and i am in an internet cafe in valencia, spain. wow..what a wonderful place. very old and very new and very clean place. i arrived last evening with two members of the rose cross who invited me to stay with them here. i will take a flight this evening to rome after joining them at their office for lunch which they take at two o´´clock and then eat at 9 o´clock. on our way here from the monastery we stopped to take a tour of one of the templar churches called san bartolome in soria spain.

very interesting place with many caves all around and a monolith standing close by. unfortunately, my spanish is not good enough yet to translate the details of what i have seen but i will later...stay tuned... my spanish is improving but i have not figured out how to use the computer for capital letters just yet. so see you in rome, adios!!!!

2005-08-19T15:07:00.000-04:00

Kathleen

Headlines

2005-08-19T09:43:00.000-04:00

http://www.ottawastart.com/story/2574.php
Here is a headline from Ottawa Start.com about the Peace Walk

News from Texas

2005-08-18T17:20:00.000-04:00

I received an email today from a friend that I have never met but found my profile many months ago online. She was most helpful guiding me to exercise properly for this journey...I have copied her email that she sent to me today (leaving out her personal details as she can add that if she likes)

"Hey there Kathleen! I was working from home yesterday, Tuesday, when I was checking a few radio stations I listen to over the Internet and what a surprise to here an interview with none other than y-o-u. Yep, I think the station was CFRA in Ottawa. I was like "WOW! She never told me she was going to meet the Pope." If I had known you had an audience with such a powerful person I would have been keeping a closer eye on your training program. Oh well, good luck on the journey across Europe and hope all goes well and you stay safe. You are an inspiration!Love,Tiffany"

So to my surprise, Tiffany was listening! Who knew!!!??? Tiffany lives in Texas.

I guess someone IS listening!! So off I go to Be at Peace..

Ciao for now!
Kathleen

Ok The Countdown begins

2005-08-18T16:57:00.000-04:00

I leave for Europe August 23rd and my first stop is in Spain to attend a 4 day silent retreat. That should be a good start for me (for those who know me, they would be either choking/laughing out loud or snickering at the mention of me being silent for more than a few seconds). I then move on to Italy to join my group to walk from Assisi to Rome ending with a Peace Conference and private audience with the Pope. Details will follow as I go along but tune in as I attend to internet cafes along the way to update you!
Over coffee this morning talking with a coworker a comment was made. We need to get uncomfortable in order to get out of our funks and limitations. How true is that? My goodness, taking a stand for anything these days is uncomfortable. So, here I am getting uncomfortable.
I have looked at emails telling me to bring protein snack foods for the walk from Assisi to Rome, the right shoes, the right socks, the right clothes. I have decided that I cannot be do or have all that is required to make the perfect walk and since it kind of corresponds with my entire spiritual path and how I got here, I have decided to go as I am, with what I have to wear and what training (which has been rather limited) I have accomplished.
But you know what? I really get that busy people get things done!!! My list of things to do is actually getting accomplished. This website was one of those things. What I didn't realize was that there are many many people ( we are talking thousands who have found this website in less than 2 weeks) who have the same interest. Go figure!!! We ALL want PEACE! We ALL want to go to Higher Ground and we all want to ensure that those we love on this earth are given something of a gift. Well, at least that is how this originally started. It started by contemplating what was something I could do to leave for my grandchildren, my great grandchildren and their children so they could look forward for themselves. In contemplating this thought I realized, I could step out of my routine and change something, anything at all and live my passion for PEACE.
I am a mother of 3 sons aged 27,25 and 14. They have been my teachers. This year, my middle child will be married in November and in the process of seeing how this dynamic impacts our family, it has made me realized that the simple answer of YES is really quite significant and not to be underestimated. So, I said YES to joining the Seminary of Spiritual Peacemaking January 1st 2004. On January 6th, 2004, I fell and broke my leg in two places for which I now carry a titanium rod and extra screws (loose screws are potentially floating around within my head…just kidding!!!!!!!!!! ;))So this journey is one that I know is not simple on a good day, but will be a challenge for me and hopefully not too much of a burden for others. Your prayers are graciously received.
This website is for YOU and for me. We build it together. Like a dark room filled with each one of us bearing a candle waiting to be lit. I light my candle and in turn each one of us light our own candle. Joining together we bring the Light to the darkness. Please do join in and add your own light to this website that we may live in Peace joined by our hearts this day and always!
Ok, so that's it for today. A few words shared with you. Thanks for being here. See you soon!