Don’t make me sing ’70′s folk songs. Because I will.
Do you want to know how bad it’s getting? Yesterday, while in the shower, I found myself singing — out of the clear blue sky — “Come on, people now, smile on your brother. Everybody get together. Try to love one another right now.” I haven’t sung that song since I was in my parish folk group in high school, but this is what it’s come to, people. This is what I’ve been driven to by those who seem to want to find misery where they should be looking for joy, by those who want to tsk-tsk rather than open their hearts and their arms and embrace the possibility of, well, everything.
The initial folk singing was really sparked by the people on both sides of the Catholic spectrum (as well as those who’ve opted to leave the spectrum completely) who have been complaining to me via email, Facebook, and Twitter about my obvious joy over Pope Francis. They simply can’t stand it. How can I be so hopeful when this or that or the other thing could be looming out there? He’s liked by a liberal. He’s liked by a conservative. Run for your lives. Everyone take a deep breath and get a grip. How about we let things unfold a bit, at least a week. Let’s start with that. The man hasn’t even been installed yet, for goodness sake.
But the misery-mongering isn’t just about all things papal. It seems people want to find things to complain about on all fronts, and it’s really bringing out the 1970′s folkie in me. Hence, the singing in the shower. Don’t make be break out the Beatitudes set to Blowin’ in the Wind, or, the ultimate A-bomb of folk music, Kumbaya. I’ll do it. I’m just that twisted. I have a guitar. It’s not that hard to make a video, you know. I’ll flesh all the misery-mongers out like you’re Noriega in Panama.
I want joy, people. Let me see some joy! And just in case you don’t remember that first song I mentioned, here you go. Do you know how many times I sang this at Mass? I can’t wait to hear from all the liturgists!
I am a mother, a wife, a chronicler of life, and a believer who understands that this journey leads us ever closer to God, even when I feel as though I'm standing still. 
Thank you Mary for all your posts. I am not surprised at all the negativity we have been reading about Pope Francis. The naysayers will continue, for without this who else would they so freely trash talk. We are a strong lot, us Catholics. It will take more than this to suppress our joy. I like you could dance in the streets. To all the negative people I say simply, We love you Pope Francis.
Arlene,
Love and hugs.
Mary
P.S. We still need to pick a date. Let me know what looks good for you.
I get it, I really do, and I hated that song at Mass!
Its now about one’s personal taste in Catholicism, and having the new Holy Father conform to OUR image of a perfect Pope.
I am all for allowing Pope Francis to be what God has called him to be for our Church at this time, and if it makes me uncomfortable, I won’t complain, I’ll trust that God is calling me to grow in that particular area.
I am already cancelling plans to upgrade my kitchen due to his simple lifestyle. Let’s see where else God wants Leticia’s lifestyle changed. . .
Leticia,
I know what you mean. The other night Dennis and I went out for a rare dinner date, and we decided to order an Argentinian Malbec in honor of Pope Francis. As we raised our glasses in a toast, I mentioned the fact that Pope Francis would have preferred we skip the wine in his honor — and the dinner out — and give that money to the poor. So, you’re right, he’s making us think differently already!
Peace,
Mary
I’m with you! I love our new Pope and I had major goose bumps from head to toe when I heard the name he had picked. What a perfect Saint for our times! Thanks for your wonderful comments and I’m signing up for your blog. God Bless! Michael
Michael,
Exciting times ahead for our Church, I think. Glad to have you along for the ride here at NSS.
Peace,
Mary