Sadly, there are so many people who are in turmoil, in despair, in joyless situations. Why? Because of sin. Oftentimes, in our frantic quest for satisfaction and happiness- we fall into traps of materialism, earthly pleasures and excessive ambitions. Unaware, we allow ourselves to be dominated by these worldly lures which rob us exactly of what we are striving for. Sin robs us of peace of mind and spirit. Life then becomes a burden and  we lose that reassuring sense of freedom. Freedom to laugh, freedom to feel joy and  be excited, freedom to walk tall and with grace.

When we succumb to the dazzling things of this world, its fame, power and glory, consciously placing them ahead of our spiritual, moral and family values, then we sin against our God and our loved ones. There are some sins that one might not even be fully aware they are and how they could destroy one’s peace and serenity. These are sins of anger, jealousy, envy, selfishness, impatience, greed and pride. These emotions when allowed to be your constant life’s companions, will rob you of peace and serenity. Eventually, one no longer feels good about himself. Peace is gone. No amount of earthly possessions or achievements can bring it back. When sin takes over, we suffer spiritual and emotional death.

To live in truth, kindness and humility is one sure way to true peace and happiness. To glow in the sunlight and not to cower in the darkness means to stay away from sin and sinful situations.  This is where prayer is of utmost importance. Daily prayers nourish us just as our daily meals feed us and keep us strong. God’s divine mercy is more powerful than any evil thoughts or desires. When one is about to be overwhelmed by his or her weakness, then resort to prayers, asking God for strength and courage to resist temptation and ward off the forces of evil. Believe that when we plea to God to intervene and deliver us from any darkness, he will.