oh, it's true.

As most of you who are reading this already know, my husband and I are in the process of converting to Catholocism. I'll pause here for a moment, to allow room for looks of disgust, gasps, and name-calling. I know what you're thinking, and you would be wrong to think for even a minute that it doesn't hurt my heart to know the disdain with which you're looking on me. Nevertheless...read on. In recent weeks, Matt has been hosting most of the discussion on this topic, both on his blog and in person or phone conversations. It has been the popular opinion held by both friends and family that this decision is merely a romantic notion, made in haste with complete disregard as to the effect it will carry into our lives. Or, that this is a decision made soley from intellectual debates, without any real substance on which to ground our faith. I stand entirely beside my husband and behind his arguments. However, I do, in all honesty, see how it is easy for someone to quickly dismiss him this way. It has been an entirely different set of thoughts that has brought me to these same conclusions. I am not an intellectual. But, I'll muster up a bit of confidence here when I say that I am not stupid. And so, I beg of anyone here who knows me: What is it about my character that would make you believe that I would make--or even consent--to a decision like this without spending much, much time in prayer and in the Holy Scriptures? Do you see in me, in the way I live my life, in the way I manage my household, in the way I treat my family and those in authority over me, prominent and consistent attitudes of rebellion, malicious or otherwise? Have you seen a habitual tendency in me to be easily swayed by whims, intellectual persuits, lusts of the flesh? Have I shown complete lack of judgement in the decisions that I've made? Am I quickly given to gossip or slander? Have I proved myself to be so timid, has my faith shown itself to be so weak that I would quickly be bullied or persuaded by anything less than the Holy Spirit and the grace of God to make a decision such as this one? I ask this of you so that if, in fact, I have proven myself to be these things, I might right myself before both God and man. If you have not seen these patterns of behavior in my life, however, I would urge you to read what I have to say with a quiet heart. I'll share with you the things I believe, both changed and unchanged. I am not seeking a debate, though comments and questions are certainly welcome, either here or at: tolovemercy@yahoo.com Blessings!