Midwest Mary

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By

Mary K. Doyle

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A Life of Love, Joy, and Peace

Who doesn’t want a happy, peaceful life?

The best of this world includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control; all of which are the result, also called fruits, of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).

The Holy Spirit is the presence of God, the activator and sanctifier. Ruach is the Hebrew word that refers to the Holy Spirit as the wind or breath of God.

Evidence of the presence of the Holy Spirit is recognized in people who exude these gifts. They have a prayerful, loving presence. They are Christlike in their thoughts and the way in which they treat everyone and all forms of life.

Notice that all three persons of God, the Trinity, work together. The Holy Spirit is the power of God, as shown in Jesus. The Three in One is always present, always working for the good of all creation.

Some people have physically felt the presence of the Holy Spirit and recognized it as such. They’ve felt a sense of warmth, tingling, or overwhelming peace and joy at particular events or times, such as while listening to a Scripture reading.

Others enjoy the benefits of a relationship with the Holy Spirit. Their days are happy, easy, and calm.

We can also have this type of life. It comes through prayer, contemplating on Scripture, and a relationship with Jesus. Basically, it is possible by following Jesus’ guidance to love God with all our hearts, minds, and souls and love one another as Jesus loves us.

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For more information, see the site, Catholic 365, or read

Young in the Spirit. Spiritual Strengthening for Seniors and Caregivers

©Mary K. Doyle, 2025

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Responses to “A Life of Love, Joy, and Peace”

  1. Carol anne

    Wonderful Mary! 🙂

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Carol Anne. I appreciate your input.

      Reply
  2. Michele Lee

    Beautiful image and message at the start of the day. Thank you, angel Mary and best to you. 🪷

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, dear, sweet Michele. I always feel that hug from you. Hope you feel it from me.

      Reply
      1. Michele Lee

        You’re very welcome and I’m so glad you feel my hugs and love and yes, I absolutely feel those from you, too. Blessed by them. Thank you very much. 🌼

        Reply
  3. Michael Sammut

    Beautiful spot and photo, Mary. Lovely words.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you kindly, Michael.

      Reply
      1. Michael Sammut

        You’re welcome.

        Reply
  4. gc1963

    A beautiful and calming write up Mary reminding us to feel the divine presence in our innermost core to be truly happy and peaceful. Thank you very much for this post.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      I’m happy the post brings you peace, my friend. All the best to you, Geeta.

      Reply
  5. P. J. Gudka

    Lovely post. I think most of us just want peace.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      I agree, Pooja. Thank you for chiming in, my friend.

      Reply
      1. P. J. Gudka

        My pleasure.

        Reply
  6. gustavo_horta

    Ajude-me a divulgar. Compartilhe!
    Fui cancelado no YouTube sob acusações canalhas, desonestas e absurdas!
    😡😡😡

    YOUTUBE: QUADRILHA AUTORITÁRIA E DESONESTA

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Nossa! Desculpe, Gustavo. Acabamos de falar sobre a importância de expressar nossos pensamentos e opiniões. Vou ler seu link.

      Reply
      1. gustavo_horta

        A ditadura Internacional das corporações… são as Corporo-cracias em ação!

        Reply
        1. Mary K. Doyle

          !!!!!!!

          Reply
  7. Awakening Wonders

    Beautiful Mary – God’s plan is always better than ours. Have a grand week!

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Yes! We humans always think we can do things ourselves. You are right about God’s plans, Mary. Thank you for your very important comment.

      Reply
  8. Penn,…

    So beautifully said, Mary, … and I love the marvellous photo, … it simply exudes peace and tranquility, … I hope your Monday has been the same, … and full of joy too, …💙

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Hello There, Penn. Thank you for your lovely comment. Happy week to you, as well.

      Reply
  9. Ernie ‘Dawg’

    I agree with you 100 % Mary, giving thanks is so easy and the rewards are as you said, a peaceful life.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      It seems to real too be true, but we know that it works, don’t we, Ernie? Thank you for adding your thoughts, my friend.

      Reply
      1. Ernie ‘Dawg’

        🙏🙏🙏

        Reply
  10. Rosaliene Bacchus

    Well said, Mary ❤

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, dear Rosaliene.

      Reply
  11. johnlmalone

    love that last paragraph, Mary 🙂

    Reply
    1. Anonymous

      Thank you, John. It sounds to simple to be real. What do we have to lose for trying?

      Reply
    2. Anonymous

      It sounds too easy but we do we have to lose for trying?

      Reply
      1. Mary K. Doyle

        Yes.

        Reply
    3. Anonymous

      It sounds so easy, but what do we have to lose for trying? Hugs to you, John.

      Reply
      1. Mary K. Doyle

        Yes. Thank you for taking the time to comment.

        Reply
    4. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, John. It sounds too easy, but what do we have to lose for trying?

      Reply
      1. johnlmalone

        exactly, Mary 🙂

        Reply
  12. arlene

    I love this Mary. We feel God’s presence every day. Sometimes we just don’t recognize it.😍

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      So true, Arlene. Blessings to you.

      Reply
  13. Mid-Life Mama

    Amen, Mary🕊️. Beautiful share about our Savior💕.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, and love to you, MLM.

      Reply
      1. Mid-Life Mama

        🩷

        Reply
  14. Nancy Homlitas

    Thank you, Mary, for your reflections on the “fruits of the Holy Spirit.” It’s so mind-boggling and wonderful to feel what you have described as the presence of the Holy Spirit. 🙂

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      The feeling is memorable and powerful. Love to you, Nancy.

      Reply
  15. joannerambling

    A wonderful post

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Joann. Have the best day.

      Reply
  16. Edward Ortiz

    Amen! Wonderful and powerful post, Mary. 🙏🏼

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Edward. Getting through the tough stuff of life is so much easier for true believers. I hope your week is going well, my friend.

      Reply
      1. Edward Ortiz

        Absolutely! It’s been a good week so far. We had a little bit of crazy weather last night through early this morning, not sure if it affected you as well, but it seems the rest of the week is going to be nice.

        Reply
  17. Phil Strawn

    I agree with all you say. I’ve walked on the beach in Port Aransas many times. Isolated, the gulls, the sound of the surf, and my thoughts. More times, that is when the presence of God comes to me and strolls beside me, giving me the strength from the ocean and his steadfast belief in me. Nature is a natural way to break down those barriers that we all carry with us. I’m old now, and my barriers have long since vanished, but I’ve retained my sense of humor.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      I agree with so much that you say, Phil. We see the Lord’s reflection in nature. May your day be perfect, my friend.

      Reply
  18. Cindy Georgakas

    A beautiful message, Mary! 🩷

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, much, Cindy. Blessings to you.

      Reply
  19. The Mindful Migraine Blog

    💜💚

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Love to you, MM.

      Reply
      1. The Mindful Migraine Blog

        🥰

        Reply
  20. Garden Bliss

    Lovely Mary. A great reminder of the fruits of the Holy Spirit – so greatly needed in our current times.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Flavia. I hope all is well with you and you are enjoying a fabulous day.

      Reply
      1. Garden Bliss

        Thanks Mary, always chasing the sun. ☀️

        Reply
  21. lenny unencumbered

    I’m a non-believer. However, I can’t and won’t begrudge you your religious beliefs when they so obviously bring you joy, peace, and comfort.
    The positive aspects are so often swept aside when we need to heap blame on one thing absolutely. I admit that I was also guilty so many years ago.
    May you continue to find joy, comfort, and humanity in your religion.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Lenny. That’s what it’s about for all of us. What do you do when in need of peace?

      Reply
      1. lenny unencumbered

        I find all these things in nature, art, scientific endeavor, the kindness and humanity of others, charity, food, travel, reading, and so much more. It’s never been difficult to find if you know how to look for it.

        Reply
        1. Mary K. Doyle

          So true.

          Reply
  22. Swamigalkodi Astrology

    Zodiac-crafted articulation

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you!

      Reply
  23. Max Muhammad

    Very soulful and warm as always. You break down the complexities of life and shine

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you for your kind words, Mister Max.

      Reply
  24. Eternity

    Thanks for your like of my post, “Jewish Prophets 3 – Isaiah Chapter 12-13;” you are very kind.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      You’re welcome.

      Reply
      1. Eternity

        Thank you very much.

        Reply
  25. Dawn Pisturino

    It includes non-attachment to the material world and trusting in God, even when things seem horrible.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      That’s the tough part, isn’t it, Dawn? Trusting in God, no matter what. Thank you for your important input, Dawn.

      Reply
  26. worldphoto12

    😀👍🙋‍♀️

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you.

      Reply
      1. worldphoto12

        PREGO

        Reply
  27. Eternity

    Thanks for your like of my post, “Jewish Prophets 3 – Isaiah Chapters 15-16;” you are very kind.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you.

      Reply
      1. Eternity

        You are very welcome.

        Reply
  28. K. Ravindra

    It’s about letting go of attachment to worldly things and placing your trust in God, even when circumstances look bleak

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      So true, K. Ravindra. Thank you for adding this important element to the post.

      Reply
  29. SiriusSea

    You exemplify these gorgeous attributes Mary ❤ in all you do !!! Beautiful imagery and thoughtful sentiments as always !!! 😀

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Ms. Siri. I appreciate all the kindness you show me. Love to you.

      Reply
  30. Andrew MacInyre

    Thank you, Mary. A quiet yet wonderful reminder for us all.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you for your input, Andrew. Welcome to Midwest Mary.

      Reply
  31. johnlmalone

    thanks Mary: this is a work-in-progress for me —

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      As for us all, John. Love to you.

      Reply
  32. Mindful Mystic (MM)

    I have not met very many people who exude those gifts—it seems they are a rare blessing to encounter in this world. 🙏 I pray that peace on earth will soon prevail.

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      A little goes a long way. We can all just try. Thank you for adding to the discussion, my friend.

      Reply
  33. Swamigalkodi Astrology

    Orbital grace

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you!

      Reply
  34. satyam rastogi

    Nice post

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Satyam.

      Reply
  35. Goals and Good Vibes

    Love this 💜💜

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thanks!

      Reply
  36. Swamigalkodi Astrology

    Enchanting

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you!

      Reply
  37. Kym Gordon Moore

    Spiritually powerful my dear Mary. Love this and thanks for sharing my friend. Hugs and smooches! 😍💋😘

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, dear Lady Kym, the Fabulous.

      Reply
      1. Kym Gordon Moore

        Awwww, you are sooooooo very welcome my dear Mary! My pleasure! 😍💖😘

        Reply
  38. Swamigalkodi Astrology

    Impressive

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you, Swamigalkodi.

      Reply
  39. Anjali DK

    Lovely thoughts

    Reply
    1. Mary K. Doyle

      Thank you kindly!

      Reply

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