Dear John,

I realized over the last few months that I've been working to change my perspective in order to better face each day in quarantine and in the midst of civil unrest. One example of this change is that, as a mom and professional, I plan everything. I use project management tools, calendars, planners, and technology to organize my life.

When 2020 began, I had the first eight months of the year planned out, almost down to the hour. When the virus became a reality in March, I started to grieve the loss of those original plans. To be honest, when we quarantined without a real timeline for an end, I started to panic looking ahead.  

In the second week of quarantine, I had a pivotal moment. I went on a walk alone one evening. My thoughts took over. All I could think about was the negative impacts of COVID-19. I saw broad devastation for the poor, our healthcare system, the economy, the unemployed, those in unsafe homes, and for those struggling with loneliness, depression, and mental illness. All of this compounded into a new level of worry. 

Suddenly, a breeze came by. It was refreshing and calming, and it caused me to pause. I was compelled to say a new prayer, God, help me to let go of all the unnecessary burdens and help me simply to live your will in the present moment.

This prayer gave me a deep sense of peace. I let go of the things that I couldn't control and embraced God and his will for me in the present moment. What a relief and a gift this was for me to let go and change my perspective.

The books we publish at Franciscan Media—and my work in marketing them—have enriched my spiritual life in ways I never expected. Our books and other products are fulfilling a spiritual need in my life and also in the lives of friends of Franciscan Media.

As I learn about our subscribers and customers, I relate to their experiences. So many of us are letting go of our normal life expectations and changing our minds and hearts in order to adapt to the environment we're in today.

I have felt an overwhelming gratitude to be connected to our subscribers through our similar love for St. Francis and the mission of Franciscan Media. All the efforts I have seen to love your neighbor, grow deeper in your faith, and support small non-profits inspire me every day.

Thank you for your continued support and love in these strange times. Thanks to you we can continue to spread the teachings of St. Francis, St. Clare, and St. Anthony.

If you are able to, please consider giving a gift, or even a recurring gift, to Franciscan Media. Your donations are what make our daily messages possible. And if you make a donation of $100 or more, you will receive a box of Trappistine Quality Candy fudge in the mail as a thank you from Franciscan Media. (Only shipping within the United States, we apologize for any inconvenience.)

Thank you for your inspiration,

Patty Crawford

Director of Marketing, Products