It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

That's right! Not Christmas as the song says, but Easter time! God is with us in a most substantial way, working to invigorate all of his creation; pouring out his blessings with his rain. The rain gauge now says 12.96 inches of rain since the drought, and it shows on the grass and the cattle.

Quick quote:
Lord, how great you are.
You make springs gush forth in the valleys: they flow in between the hills.
They give drink to all the beasts, on their banks dwell the birds of heaven; from the branches they sing their song.
From your dwelling you water the hills; earth drinks its fill of your gift. Psalm 104

May Day! Today is the feast of St. Joseph the Worker, after whom my mother says I am named. When I heard this I remember hoping and praying for the grace to live up to such a lofty name. The name Joseph translates "he shall add". Upon hearing the significance of the name given me by those who unquestionably loved me, I endeavored to identify with the assigned characteristics. Perhaps that is why I was able to find within me the ability to leave the professional life for a life of labor on the ranch. Perhaps that is why I have always sought to add to the value of the legacy entrusted to me. God has thrown me some curves, but nothing compared to those of my namesake. He was betrothed to a rare beauty, the zenith of God's creation, the one human being ever created well enough to be the mother of God. A normal man would have been disappointed to learn that such a wonderful creature was going to be ever a virgin. It could have been easy for most to at least resent having to labor to support her and her child. The tradition passed down in Christ's church tells us that Joseph never complained of his lot. He worked hard by day to earn his and the holy family's daily bread, but laborers sleep well at night, and really enjoy the simple blessings of nourishment and rest. Saint Joseph had the added benefit of living with and raising Jesus Christ. And being married to Mary. When God calls us to something the costs are always inconsequential compared to the benefits, no matter how great the costs are.