Our Lady as Mother

May is traditionally dedicated to Our Lady. A beautiful devotion to her is the Litany of Loretto. She has so many wonderful titles that we can honor her by. One of my favorites is "cause of our joy." She gives us so many reasons for joy when we pray to her. Her greatest desire is to lead us to her Son, who is the source of all joy. It is fitting that Mothers' Day and the anniversary of Fatima fell on the same day this year. At Fatima, Our Lady truly reminded us that she is our Mother and desires that we be in Heaven with her. A devotion to Mary is so necessary for the spiritual life and can only bring about an increase in virtue. 

A great quote by St. Bernard: "In dangers, in doubts, in difficulties, think of Mary, call upon Mary. Let not her name depart from your lips, never suffer it to leave your heart. And that you may more surely obtain the assistance of her prayer, neglect not to walk in her footsteps. With her for guide, you shall never go astray; while invoking her you shall never lose heart; so long as she is in your mind, you are safe from deception; while she holds your hand, you cannot fall; under her protection you have nothing to fear; if she walks before you, you shall not grow weary; if she shows you favor, you shall reach the goal."