February 2010 sounds so futuristic...but here we are. This month always seems to be about love and the preparation for it. Winter in the U.S. has been dramatic this month. Record snowfalls in the Central US and East, mudslides in the West. We are in need of some soul food here. Love will do it.

Under "Spirit", since we began in May, we have used thoughtful quotes from well-known spiritual leaders to inspire readers. For February, we have a meditation about love by by Pedro Aruppa, S.J., a Jesuit priest. While people don't seem to always understand dogma when it comes to religion, people always seem to be interested in and understand the subject of love.

Pedro Aruppa says that "Only by being a man or woman for others does one become fully human." In this meditation, he advises "Falling in Love with God." It is a formula for life, vocation, interpersonal relationships, all in one. Even though the Stephen Stills lyrics of the 1960's had kind of a sexual overtone to them..if we carry love with us in every possible situation, the atmosphere, the air is going to be very breathable..."if you can't be"(...or while you can't be...or when you can't be...) "with the one you love, love the one you're with". It reminds us that truly with love as a way of life, a habit, we can't go wrong. It will guide us faithfully. If the word God offends you, replace it with the word Love

As I read this meditation, I became interested in knowing more about< Pedro Aruppa, who was born in Spain, and lived outside of Hiroshima when the atomic bomb was dropped there. His work there after the bombing is reminiscent of the selfless volunteers now working in Haiti. I have put together a brief biography from what I was able to find out about Aruppa. There are numerous sites with info on his life and I have written was consistently reported about his life. You will find this account under under a new category created this month "Courageous Lives". Playwright William Saroyan once said "The greatest men and women who have ever lived will never be known to history." Father Aruppa is known to history but under this column we will work to give some attention to people whose lives inspire who are not known or often, recognized.

There is a new contribution from French born Jacqueline Thault, a poem, "The Lovers' Tale" under Spirit. There is a story about to be posted about artist/activist Vance Carruth from Wyoming, a wonderful man. Artist Diane Thodos has sent us updated information on her interview with art critic Don Kuspit and that will soon be online.

We are pleased to let you know that Dorothy Weiss, contributor of Overcoming Obstacles under "Spirit" has recently been published in the 7th annual Goose River Anthology, a collection of poetry, short stories and essays featuring more than 85 talented writers. Contact information for Dorothy is under her essay.

And finally, in October 2009, recently graduated college students Hannah White and Erika Johnson embarked on an overseas journey. After four years of rigorous studies at college, they were finally able to fulfill their shared dream of a long-term stay in France. They created a blog which documents their adventures, including photos, stories, people they encountered, and places they lived. For the months of October, November and December, equipped with a background in French and a common interest in Francophone culture, they were been able to dive right in and soak all that France has to offer. They have traveled as volunteers, which allowed them to see a more intimate and authentic side of the country.

Coupled with wonderful photos, there is also a narrative, an exciting and interesting account of their tour. Hannah has returned home now but Erika stayed on in France. Visit them at http://Erika-Hannah-bonvoyage.blogspot.com and share with them as they continue to discover all the scenes, sights, smells, and tastes of la belle vie! We thank Kathryn Jonas for bringing our attention to the work of these wonderful young women.

Between Arrupe's meditation, Jacqueline Thault's poem, and the armchair tour of France, we hope you feel the love!