March 1, 2022 — If you’re one who hunts for just the right Easter cards for those you love, here’s a beauty that Meanings of Life artist Joanne Friar painted to go with the affirming message by Contributing Cardie Rosemary Tolliver.

Last Friday we shared with you the lovely prayer for Ukraine from Cardie Mary Pat Rossi.

Because this cardie has so many soulful things to say, we asked her if we might share more of her writing here on Lenten eve.

Mary Pat first emailed us about a month ago to introduce herself. “I work at St. Catherine of Siena church in DuBois, PA, as Office Manager,” she began, “and also lead our Music Ministry. My co-worker Mary Ann Nicholls follows Cardthartic, as I do. We feel fed by your newsletters and have been able to bless others with your cards,” she wrote, “and wish we could meet your staff to listen and share what it is that makes you so amazing.

Humbled and gratified, we replied, “Wow, Mary Pat, what a lovely message. Much appreciated and taken to heart!” Then I shared with her that we definitely live by the old adage, “Our talents are our gifts from God. What we do with them is our gift to God.” After a flurry of emails flying back and forth, we learn that Mary Pat is as fun and funny as she is spiritual and profound. She and Mary Ann have begun looking at their calendars for a Cardie Road Trip and, after Easter, they plan to be Miami Beach-bound. 😉

Last week, MP wrote again, attached lovely photos that show us what is and what will soon again be, and described, “In February, in DuBois, finding places to go outdoors can be a challenge. A willingness to embrace the elements is necessary, as the warmth of home calls us to hibernate and lack of sunshine causes us to become dormant.

“But nearby, we have the Cross on the Hill,” she said. “Very little, if any, winter maintenance is done. Winter attire is a must as you make your way to the cross, but the effort is worth it. The cross overlooks a vast and beautiful landscape.”

“Yesterday, I braved my way to the cross,” she said. “I prayed for you and asked God to bless you and the work you are meant to accomplish.” ❤️

“It amazes me that, in the depths of a dormant season such as winter, life happens. Growth happens,” she reminds us, “All we need do is open ourselves and allow the beauty of the season to feed us.” Amen, Mary Pat, and thank you.

Jodee Stevens
Founder & Chief Creative