Today of course is 12/12.  And for many Christians around the world it is the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.  So many times the rose has been associated with the mother of our Lord and for years I failed to notice it:  the Rosary, rose windows in gothic cathedrals, and the roses that spilled from Juan Diego’s tilma, just to name a few.  “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming” is such a beautiful Christmas song which tells of the Virgin Mary giving birth to the Savior.  During this time as we await the coming of Christ, let us not forget the one human being God chose above all others.

“In dangers, in doubts, in difficulties, think of Mary, call upon Mary.  Let not her name depart from your lips, never suffer it to leave your heart.  And that you may obtain the assistance of her prayer, neglect not to walk in her footsteps.  With her for guide, you shall never go astray; while invoking her, you shall never lose heart; so long as she is in your mind, you are safe from deception; while she holds your hand, you cannot fall; under her protection you have nothing to fear; if she walks before you, you shall not grow weary; if she shows you favor, you shall reach the goal.” ~ French abbot Saint Bernard of Clairvaux

The Ever Blessed Virgin Mary always shows the way to her son, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  She is the rose without thorns.