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Community Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH Drop the ME and focus on the OTHERS Immigration Leadership Development Self-Improve Workforce Development

Embracing Faith Over Fear: The Path to Compassionate Action

The soon-to-be-released book by Di Tran, “Drop the Fear and Focus on the Faith”, unearths a profound principle of our human existence. Fear and faith often exist in a delicate balance within us, and the sway of this balance has deep implications on our ability to be kind, compassionate, and take advantage of opportunities.

As Tran insightfully points out, “The first no-sayer is self.” We are often our biggest adversaries. The negative thoughts and fears we foster within ourselves can manifest into actions, consequently stifling our capability for kindness and compassionate deeds.

Fear Stifles Kindness

When fear grips us, our instinctual response is self-preservation. While this mechanism is crucial for survival, it often suffocates our capacity for kindness. Fear keeps us preoccupied with our issues, leaving little space for empathy towards others. We retract into our shells rather than reach out, blocking the potential acts of kindness that could add value to our lives and those of others. By letting go of fear and focusing on faith, we can tap into the divine energy of kindness that fuels positivity and love.

Fear Halts Compassionate Action

Compassionate actions stem from not just understanding another’s pain, but actively trying to alleviate their suffering. Fear, however, puts a halt to this noble cause. When under the grip of fear, we start to fret about the potential consequences of our actions. We wonder if our deeds will be positively received or if they might lead to unforeseen outcomes. This fear-induced paralysis often prevents us from taking compassionate action that could be beneficial to others. By replacing fear with faith, we can trust in the inherent goodness of our actions and their ultimate impact, thus enabling us to act compassionately amidst uncertainties.

Fear Raises Defense Mechanisms

Fear stimulates our defense mechanisms, compelling us to erect walls around ourselves. While these walls may shield us from potential harm, they also alienate us from growth, learning, and connection opportunities. They hinder the free exchange of thoughts and emotions, preventing understanding and mutual respect. By discarding fear and embracing faith, we lower our defenses and expose ourselves to a variety of experiences that enrich our existence.

Fear Prevents Opportunities

Fear encourages a negative mindset, causing us to overlook opportunities even when they are right before us. The fear of failure or rejection deters us from seizing opportunities that could lead to personal growth and success. However, by focusing on faith, we reinforce our belief in our capabilities and the universe’s inherent positivity. This shift in perspective allows us to identify and grab the opportunities that life offers.

The divine energy originating from our souls can be used to either propagate fear or faith. It can give rise to negative emotions and actions, or it can be harnessed to create positivity and acts of kindness and compassion. The choice is entirely ours.

As Di Tran suggests in his enlightening new book, it’s time to drop the fear and focus on the faith. Not only does this path lead to personal growth, but it also contributes to creating a more empathetic and compassionate world. Adopting this mindset allows us to be more open, receptive, and proactive, transforming the dance of fear and faith into a harmonious symphony of love and understanding.

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Leadership Development Self-Improve

The Power of Regret: Prioritizing Love and Connection over Material Outcomes

Introduction: In the grand tapestry of life, regrets often emerge as a poignant reminder of missed opportunities, unfulfilled desires, and unspoken words. As we reflect on the regrets commonly expressed by individuals nearing the end of their lives, a striking pattern emerges: the most profound regrets tend to revolve around actions not taken, particularly those related to sharing love, nurturing relationships, and adding value to the lives of others. In this article, we will explore the significance of prioritizing acts of kindness, the value of meaningful connections, and the transformative power of love, all of which can help us minimize the regrets we carry and live a more fulfilling existence.

I. Not living true to themselves: Living an authentic life, true to one’s own desires and beliefs, is a common lament. Many individuals regret not embracing their passions, making bold choices, or pursuing their dreams due to fear of judgment or societal pressures. For instance, someone may regret not pursuing a career in art or music because they were discouraged by others, instead settling for a more conventional path that left them unfulfilled.

II. Working too much: In the pursuit of success and financial stability, people often dedicate excessive time and energy to their careers, neglecting their personal lives and relationships. Regret arises when individuals realize that they missed out on important milestones, quality time with loved ones, or experiences that would have brought them joy and fulfillment. They wish they had struck a better work-life balance and focused on what truly mattered.

III. Not expressing feelings: Our emotions have the power to shape our relationships and leave a lasting impact. However, regret often stems from not expressing love, gratitude, or affection when it truly mattered. People may wish they had told their parents how much they appreciated them or conveyed their love to a partner before it was too late. The weight of unsaid words becomes an indelible regret.

IV. Neglecting relationships: Relationships form the core of our human experience, yet it’s all too common to neglect them amidst the busyness of life. Regret arises when individuals realize they didn’t invest enough time, attention, or effort into cultivating meaningful connections with family, friends, or romantic partners. They wish they had prioritized nurturing those relationships and creating lasting memories together.

V. Not taking risks: Life is an adventure filled with opportunities for growth and self-discovery. However, fear and comfort zones often prevent individuals from seizing those opportunities. Regret emerges when people realize they played it safe, never taking the risks necessary to pursue their dreams or explore new horizons. They long for the courage to have embraced the unknown and embraced the fullness of life.

VI. Not maintaining good health: Health is often taken for granted until it begins to decline. Regret can arise from not prioritizing one’s physical and mental well-being, neglecting self-care, or failing to adopt healthy habits. People may wish they had made healthier choices, exercised regularly, or sought support for their mental well-being earlier in life.

VII. Not enjoying the present: The hustle and bustle of modern life often pull us away from the present moment. Regret arises when individuals realize they were too preoccupied with worries about the future or haunted by past mistakes to fully appreciate the beauty and joy of the present. They yearn for a mindset that embraces mindfulness, allowing them to savor each precious moment.

Postro: As we reflect upon the regrets expressed by those nearing the end of their journey, a common thread emerges: regrets often center around actions not taken, particularly those related to love, connection, and adding value to the lives of others. Material outcomes and worldly achievements pale in comparison to the profound impact of acts of

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Community Immigration Leadership Development Self-Improve

Understanding Grace: Exploring the Concept in Relation to God and “Drop the Fear and Focus on the Faith” by Di Tran

Viet Bao Louisville KY - Grace of GOD
Viet Bao Louisville KY - Grace of GOD

Grace is a word that is often used in religious and spiritual contexts to describe a quality of kindness, forgiveness, or mercy shown towards others. It can also refer to an elegance or beauty in movement or behavior. In the context of religion, grace is often understood as the unmerited and undeserved favor that God shows to humanity. It is seen as a gift from God that cannot be earned or achieved by human effort.

In the book “Drop the Fear and Focus on the Faith,” author Di Tran encourages readers to let go of their fears and anxieties and instead focus on their faith in God’s grace and guidance. Tran’s message aligns with the Christian concept of grace, which emphasizes the idea that salvation and forgiveness are freely given by God as a gift of grace, rather than earned through our own efforts. By letting go of our fears and trusting in God’s plan for our lives, we can experience peace and fulfillment.

For children, the concept of grace can be a difficult one to understand. However, by using simple examples, we can help them understand this important concept. For instance, we can explain that when we receive a gift, we don’t have to do anything to earn it. Similarly, God’s grace is a gift that we receive, even though we don’t deserve it.

We can also explain that when we make mistakes or do something wrong, we may feel guilty or ashamed. However, just like when a parent forgives their child for misbehaving, God forgives us when we ask for forgiveness. This is an example of God’s grace.

Teaching children about grace can help them develop a deeper understanding of God’s love and mercy. It can also help them learn to forgive others and extend grace to those around them.

Grace is a powerful concept that has many different meanings and interpretations. In the context of religion, it refers to the unmerited and undeserved favor that God shows to humanity. In “Drop the Fear and Focus on the Faith,” Di Tran encourages readers to let go of their fears and instead trust in God’s grace and guidance. For children, the concept of grace can be explained through simple examples of forgiveness and unearned gifts. By understanding the concept of grace, children can learn to extend kindness and forgiveness to others, and grow in their faith and understanding of God’s love.

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Community Health Leadership Development Self-Improve

The Way of the Holy Cross of the Lord: A Tradition of Devotion and Sacrifice in the Vietnamese Catholic Church

The Vietnamese Catholic Church has a long and rich history, with traditions that date back centuries. One of these traditions is the Way of the Holy Cross of the Lord, a path of devotion and sacrifice that involves following Jesus Christ and his teachings. Today, Catholic Vietnamese church members of Saint John Vianney gather at Calvary Cemetery in order to do the 12 stages of the Way of the Holy Cross of the Lord, while praying for the death of loved ones such as Di Tran’s grandfather and giving thanks to God for blessing the families and community of the Vietnamese church and everyone.

The Way of the Holy Cross of the Lord, or “Đàng Thánh Giá Chúa” in Vietnamese, is a path of devotion and sacrifice that involves following Jesus Christ and his teachings. It is a way of life that requires a commitment to living a life of faith, prayer, and service to others. The path involves carrying one’s own cross, just as Jesus carried his cross on the way to his crucifixion. Through this act of sacrifice and suffering, Catholics are reminded of the love and mercy of God, and are inspired to live their lives in a way that reflects these values.

For the Vietnamese Catholic Church, the Way of the Holy Cross of the Lord is an important tradition that is celebrated yearly. Each year, church members gather at Calvary Cemetery to do the 12 stages of the Way of the Holy Cross of the Lord, while praying for the souls of their loved ones who have passed away. This event is a time of reflection, prayer, and thanksgiving, as church members come together to honor the sacrifices of Jesus Christ and give thanks for the blessings in their lives.

One member of the Saint John Vianney church community who has been deeply impacted by the Way of the Holy Cross of the Lord is Di Tran. Di’s grandfather passed away several years ago, and he has found comfort and solace in the tradition of the Way of the Holy Cross of the Lord. Di is also an author, having written the book “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS”, which is a memoir about his journey towards faith and the role that the Vietnamese Catholic Church has played in her life. Di’s upcoming book, “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH”, explores the ways in which his faith has helped his to overcome fear and uncertainty.

Through his books and her participation in the Way of the Holy Cross of the Lord, Di Tran has become an inspiration to many in the Vietnamese Catholic Church community. His words and his actions serve as a reminder of the importance of faith, prayer, and service to others. As the church continues to honor the tradition of the Way of the Holy Cross of the Lord, it is clear that this path of devotion and sacrifice will continue to inspire and guide generations of Catholics in the years to come.

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Leadership Development Self-Improve

Mom and I Walked to the Dumpster – A Pivotal Moment That Shaped Who I Am Today – Di Tran

Viet Bao Louisville - Di Tran - Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS - BOOK by Di Tran
Viet Bao Louisville - Di Tran - Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS - BOOK by Di Tran

SUMMARY

In this section of Chapter one of “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS” by Di Tran, the author recounts a childhood experience that shaped his self-determination and will to protect his family. His mother insisted they retrieve a dirty mattress from a dumpster despite his initial hesitation. He learned the value of determination and the importance of family from his mother’s actions. Later, their good fortune continued when Catholic Charities offered to provide movers to help them transport any items they needed to their new location. The author reflects on the lessons he learned from his mother about the will of God and the importance of effort in achieving success.

Di Tran - Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS
Di Tran – Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS – BOOK

MOM AND I WALKED TO THE DUMPSTER – THE #1 REASON I AM WHO I AM TODAY

“Mom, it’s not like we never slept on a dirt floor before. We were dirt poor, and I used to sleep on the ground in our mud hut. How hard can it get? We can handle this and sleep on the floor without a mattress.” I tried to comfort Mom about not having a mattress for us to sleep on, but more importantly, I was trying to avoid the activity of digging through the dumpsters. I realize that poor was not the point, now that I reflect on and understand why I hesitated. I meant what I said about being poor, and it was truthful, and it would have been totally fine. However, I was uncomfortable digging through trash. As poor as we had been in the past, there was never a time that we dug through trash hunting for items. First, Vietnam was and still is a third-world country, and especially in a poor village like ours, there was no government agency that picked up trash, nor did the people pile their trash in one place. Second, poor people’s trash in Vietnam would never have generated anything worth taking. Third, the idea of digging through trash is the lowest of the low in our mindset, and it is hard to fathom. At the age of 12, I already knew how this would affect me in terms of my self-esteem and perceived status in life. There could have been nothing worse for me at that moment in time. This was the pivotal point that made me who I am today.

Firmly and carefully, Mom stated, “No, Son. At the least, my children will have what other children have, even if it is of the worst quality, “ in this case, a mattress. “I will not settle for less than this,” she responded to my hesitation. Today, as I write this book, I now have three children of my own, ages five, six, and seven. As a parent, I strongly feel what my mom meant at that moment. Her love for her children and family has always surpassed her fear of self-doubt, public criticism, and people’s thoughts of her. Most importantly, she was determined to make the best out of a bad situation, and she knew what that minimum was: a mattress.  That was her driving force, her only thought, and nothing could stop her from achieving that goal. I learned self-determination from Mom, and the level of this became explosive when her children’s interests were concerned in comparison to the norm. Not having a mattress was not an option, and so I tagged along with Mom to the dumpster.

Di Tran and His Mom – Dig the Dumpster for their first mattress in USA

The dumpster was a few blocks from our house, and Mom and I walked there in the cold weather; there was even light snow falling. We were both lightly dressed, wearing our tropical layered clothes, but we did not feel physical discomfort, only the mental heaviness of what we were about to do, dig in the dumpster. For the first time in my life, I felt like an adult man at this age of 12. I was on a mission with Mom, for something that we would hopefully only have to do only once in our lifetime. I felt a strong sense of determination that I inherited from her, and this made me happy. I also began to recognize at this exact moment who I must become, a man of the family with a strong level of determination and will to protect my family at all levels. There was no shame, no hardship, and no criticism that would interfere with the focus we had on our family, as Mom and I walked to the dumpster. “There it is, Son. Get in there and pull it out for me. I will pull it and you push from inside.” Mom directed me to the dumpster where the dirty mattress was. It was wet, heavy, dirty, and stained gray. It smelled of trash and urine. I no longer hesitated and put forth all my effort to get the mattress out from the dumpster and drag it to the temporary home, which we would soon have to exit and move into the Americana apartments. I accomplished something significant for myself, my mom and my family, and I felt quite satisfied. “We did it! Our family now has a mattress!” Mom exhaled with a smile, and seemingly lightened heart.

THE WILL OF GOD

Unexpectedly, our Vietnamese translator from Catholic Charities came over to the house where my mom and I stood after our accomplished mission. The translator looked at us and glanced at the dirty mattress and spoke, “Catholic Charities has decided that this temporary house that you are staying in now, will no longer be used for this purpose after your family leaves. Therefore, they will throw away everything in this house after you leave. You are free to take anything you need to the Americana Apartments.” “Anything and everything we can use?” Mom asked the translator. “Yes, but not only that. Catholic Charities will provide the movers with trucks to help you move them into your new location, since they would have to throw all these away anyway.” “Isn’t this the will of God, Son?” Mom asked me when retelling this story. “Son, remember God will never give you more than what you can handle.” She taught us about faith in God. “But also know that life is about giving all the effort you can by maximizing your brain and physical strength for good; then God will take on the rest.” I gain greater comprehension of Mom’s teachings as I grow and live through life’s challenges. I can only recognize God through doing, not sitting, praying, or waiting for things to happen. Only when I maximize my God-given capability, can I say: “God, now you do your magic based on what I did.” God never seems to never fail me and my family.

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Community Leadership Development

Steps to Becoming a Priest in the Catholic Church: An Overview of the Ranks and Requirements

Di Tran, CEO of Viet Bao Louisville Ky
Di Tran, CEO of Viet Bao Louisville Ky

In the Catholic Church, the priesthood is an ordained ministry that provides spiritual guidance and sacramental support to the faithful. Here is a list of the ranks in the priesthood, in ascending order:

  1. Deacon: To become a deacon, a man must first be a baptized and confirmed Catholic. He must then express a desire to serve in the diaconate, undergo formation and discernment, and be approved by his bishop. The formation process typically involves several years of academic study, spiritual development, and practical training. Once ordained, deacons serve in a variety of roles, including preaching, administering the sacrament of baptism, and performing charitable work.
  2. Priest: To become a priest, a man must first be a deacon, although some men enter directly into the seminary from lay life. Like those aspiring to the diaconate, men pursuing the priesthood must undergo formation and discernment, be approved by their bishop, and be ordained. The formation process for priests is typically more extensive than for deacons, including deeper studies in theology, philosophy, and pastoral ministry.
  3. Bishop: To become a bishop, a priest must first demonstrate a strong commitment to the Church and a high level of pastoral and theological expertise. He must also be approved by the Pope and receive the consensus of his fellow bishops. The process of becoming a bishop involves extensive consultation and evaluation, and the man selected must demonstrate exceptional leadership, spiritual depth, and a willingness to serve the Church.
  4. Archbishop: An archbishop is simply a bishop who heads an archdiocese, which is a particular church with a specific geographical jurisdiction. To become an archbishop, a bishop must first demonstrate a successful record of leadership and pastoral service in his diocese, and then be appointed by the Pope to lead the archdiocese.
  5. Cardinal: Cardinals are members of the College of Cardinals, which is a group of senior church leaders who advise the Pope and play a key role in electing a new Pope when the need arises. To become a cardinal, a bishop must be appointed by the Pope and receive the consensus of the College of Cardinals.
  6. Pope: The Pope is the Bishop of Rome and the leader of the worldwide Catholic Church. To become Pope, one must first be a bishop, although not necessarily a cardinal. When the Pope dies or resigns, the College of Cardinals meets in a process known as a conclave to elect a new Pope. The election is based on the qualities of the candidates, the needs of the Church, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The man elected Pope must then be approved by a two-thirds majority of the College of Cardinals.

It’s worth noting that not all priests become bishops, and not all bishops become cardinals. The appointment to each rank is made by the Pope and is based on a variety of factors, including experience, leadership skills, and the needs of the Church.

Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH

In conclusion, the priesthood is a noble and demanding form of community service that requires both dedication and courage. It is a calling to serve the Church and the people of God with love, compassion, and spiritual guidance. This calling is not for the faint of heart, as it requires a deep commitment to serving others and a willingness to sacrifice personal interests for the greater good. However, for those who are called to the priesthood, it can be an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling vocation that brings joy and meaning to their lives.

This message is in line with the teachings of Di Tran in his book “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITh.” Tran encourages readers to overcome their fears and to trust in God’s plan for their lives. He reminds us that with faith, we can overcome any obstacle and live a life of purpose and fulfillment. For those considering the priesthood, this message is particularly relevant. The priesthood can be a challenging path, but with faith and a commitment to serving others, it can also be a source of great joy and satisfaction. By focusing on the faith and letting go of fear, those called to the priesthood can confidently answer the call and make a positive impact on the world.

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Self-Improve

Embracing Life with Gratitude and Positivity: A Poem for Di Tran

Di Tran - CEO of Viet Bao Louisville KY

41 years young and wise,

A heart filled with gratitude, no disguise.

Your mom taught you well, to always strive,

To add value and spread love, it’s your drive.

You’ve blessed so many with your kind words,

And through your actions, their lives you’ve stirred.

Three kids, a wife, what a beautiful life,

Wealth in love, knowledge and experiences, no strife.

You embrace the laws of attraction and vibration,

Sharing your wisdom, with great passion.

A heart overflowing with positivity and love,

Gratitude is all you have, and all you see above.

40 may be the peak of the hill,

But for you, it’s just another thrill.

You’re not slowing down, you’re just starting to soar,

With every year, your journey becomes more and more.

So here’s to you, Di Tran, on your 41st birthday,

May your life be filled with joy and positivity, each day.

And may you continue to bless and inspire,

For you truly are a light, and will always shine brighter.

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Information Technology Leadership Development Workforce Development

The Role of Human Instructors in the Age of AI: Balancing Knowledge Management and Emotional Intelligence in Education

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionize many aspects of our lives in the future, including knowledge management and education. As AI technology advances, it is likely that AI will play an increasingly important role in these areas, taking over tasks that were previously performed by humans.

One of the main benefits of AI in the field of knowledge management is that it can process and analyze vast amounts of data much faster and more accurately than a human could. For example, AI-powered systems could be used to manage vast databases of information, identify patterns and relationships, and provide insights and recommendations to decision-makers. This could greatly improve the efficiency and accuracy of knowledge management, allowing organizations to make more informed decisions and stay ahead of the competition.

In education, AI has the potential to transform the way that students learn. For example, AI-powered tutors could provide personalized and interactive learning experiences, adapting to the individual needs and learning styles of each student. This could greatly improve student engagement and motivation, and help students to learn more effectively and efficiently.

However, while AI may be able to perform many tasks related to knowledge management and education, there are certain things that it cannot do. For example, AI cannot understand or experience emotions, and it cannot truly understand the human experience. This is where human instructors come in. While AI may be able to provide students with a wealth of knowledge and information, human instructors still have an important role to play in teaching children how to be human.

One of the most important things that human instructors can teach children is how to be kind, loving, and caring for others. These are qualities that cannot be learned from a machine or a database, and they are essential for a fulfilling and meaningful life. By teaching children these values and helping them to develop empathy and emotional intelligence, human instructors can help to create a better future for everyone.

While AI has the potential to revolutionize many aspects of knowledge management and education in the future, it is important to recognize that there are certain things that only humans can do. By focusing on what makes us unique as human beings, and by teaching children the values that are essential for a fulfilling life, we can ensure that AI will be used to complement and enhance human capabilities, rather than replace them.

Be Human – Be a Best Version of Oneself

Becoming the best version of oneself is a personal journey that requires effort and self-reflection. However, there are some general principles that can help individuals to become their best selves:

  1. Embrace self-awareness: Understanding one’s own strengths, weaknesses, values, and motivations is an essential step towards personal growth and self-improvement. Regular self-reflection and journaling can help individuals to gain insight into their own thoughts and feelings, and to identify areas where they would like to make changes.
  2. Practice empathy: Empathy involves the ability to understand and share the feelings of others. By making a conscious effort to understand the perspectives of those around us, we can develop stronger relationships and become more compassionate individuals.
  3. Cultivate gratitude: Practicing gratitude can help individuals to appreciate what they have, rather than focusing on what they lack. This can lead to increased happiness and well-being, and can also improve relationships with others.
  4. Seek personal growth: Personal growth is an ongoing process, and individuals who are committed to becoming the best versions of themselves are always seeking new opportunities to learn and grow. This can involve taking on new challenges, learning new skills, and expanding one’s knowledge and understanding of the world.
  5. Nurture relationships: Strong relationships with family, friends, and loved ones are essential for personal happiness and well-being. By making an effort to connect with others, to listen and to be supportive, individuals can build and maintain meaningful relationships that will enrich their lives.
  6. Focus on physical and mental health: Taking care of one’s physical and mental health is essential for overall well-being and personal growth. This can involve maintaining a healthy lifestyle, seeking medical care when needed, and engaging in activities that promote physical and mental well-being.
  7. Practice kindness and generosity: Acts of kindness and generosity can have a profound impact on both the giver and the receiver. By making a conscious effort to be kind and to help others, individuals can create a ripple effect of positivity and compassion, and can become a better version of themselves in the process.

By following these principles, individuals can begin their journey towards becoming the best version of themselves. However, it is important to remember that this is a lifelong process, and that there is no one “right” way to become the best version of oneself. The most important thing is to be patient, persistent, and to approach the journey with an open mind and a positive attitude.

Take away

In conclusion, Di Tran’s message of “Drop the FEAR and Focus on the FAITH” is a powerful reminder that our faith and beliefs can guide us in becoming the best version of ourselves. By embracing our humanity and being faithful to the God within us, we can overcome fear and uncertainty, and find a greater sense of purpose and meaning in our lives. This message is a continuation of Tran’s first book “Drop the ME and Focus on the OTHERS,” which emphasized the importance of putting others first and serving others with compassion and kindness. Together, these two books encourage us to embrace both our spiritual and human sides, and to strive towards a more harmonious and fulfilling existence. So let us drop the fear, and focus on the faith within ourselves, as we work towards becoming the best version of ourselves and making a positive impact on the world.

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Community

The Evolution of Valentine’s Day: From Lupercalia to Modern Celebrations of Love

Valentine’s Day is a holiday celebrated on February 14th each year that recognizes love and affection between intimate partners, friends, and family members. It is one of the oldest holidays in the Western world, with roots tracing back to the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia, which was celebrated in mid-February and symbolized love, fertility, and the arrival of spring.

Family Valentine

The exact origins of Valentine’s Day are unclear, but it is thought to have originated as a Christian feast day honoring Saint Valentine, a martyr who was executed for secretly performing marriages in ancient Rome during a time when marriage was banned. The name “Valentine” is believed to have been chosen for the holiday in recognition of his acts of love and compassion.

Lupercalia was a time of celebration and commemoration, featuring rituals such as matchmaking, animal sacrifices, feasting, partying, and gift-giving. Young men and women’s names were placed in a box, and couples were chosen at random to be paired together for the duration of the festival. Goats and dogs were sacrificed, and their blood was smeared on the foreheads of the young men who participated in the festival. People would gather to feast, drink, and enjoy music and other forms of entertainment. Gift-giving was also a significant part of Lupercalia, with people exchanging sweets and other gifts to show their affection for each other.

Family Valentine

Today, Valentine’s Day is primarily associated with expressing love through gifts, such as chocolates, flowers, and cards, and spending time with loved ones. The holiday continues to be a time of joy and excitement, and its ancient roots in Lupercalia can still be seen in modern-day celebrations.

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Community

Dedicated Sister at Saint John Vianney Church: A Shining Example of Service and Compassion

Viet Bao Louisville - St John Vianney Church - Sister and Kids
Viet Bao Louisville - St John Vianney Church - Sister and Kids

In a world that often seems devoid of positivity and hope, it is truly inspiring to see individuals who dedicate their lives to serving others and spreading the message of love and compassion. One such individual is a sister who has been working tirelessly at Saint John Vianney Church in Louisville, Kentucky, teaching children every Saturday in preparation for their First Communion. This dedicated sister serves as a shining example of what it means to be a servant of God, and her impact on the children she teaches is immeasurable.

Located in the heart of a vibrant 20+ year old Vietnamese immigrant community, Saint John Vianney Church is dedicated to providing spiritual guidance and support to its members. Each week, the sister devotes countless hours to teaching children the important principles of the Catholic faith, preparing them for one of the most significant milestones in their spiritual journey. Her unwavering commitment to these young minds is a testament to her selflessness and her desire to make a positive impact on the world.

Class in Action – Jayden, Skylar and Dylan

First Communion is a critical rite of passage in the life of a Catholic child, and the training provided by the sister ensures that each child is well-prepared for this momentous occasion. Through her lessons and guidance, she helps to instill the values of love, compassion, and selflessness in these young minds, setting them on a path towards a fulfilling and meaningful life. The children leave each Saturday with a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith, and a sense of purpose and direction that will serve them well in the years to come.

It is a privilege to have such a dedicated and compassionate sister in our community. Her passion for her faith and her unwavering commitment to serving others is a shining example of what it means to be a true servant of God. Her impact on the lives of the children she teaches is immeasurable, and we are all the better for having her in our community.

As the world continues to face challenges and hardships, it is heartening to know that there are individuals like this sister who remain steadfast in their commitment to spreading love and compassion. Her tireless efforts and dedication to the children she teaches are a source of inspiration to us all, and a reminder that we too can make a positive impact on the world if we simply open our hearts and minds to the possibilities.

The sister at Saint John Vianney Church is a true gift to our community, and we are deeply grateful for her tireless efforts in preparing the children of our community for the sacrament of First Communion. Her passion, dedication, and compassion serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration to us all, and we are honored to have her in our community.