Patty O’Sullivan in Santa Fe, New Mexico, saw the Project Heaven on Earth presentation just before Christmas and had an idea. She asked forty of her extended family members to send her a very short description of what Heaven on Earth is for them. Thirty-three people responded and she combined them all into her Christmas letter, which she sent to all forty. Here are some of the responses she received.
- Having the family that I do. They’re all so thoughtful. There isn’t anything they wouldn’t do for each other. (Mom)
- Being surrounded by my family and having such a wonderful family, including my children, their wives and husbands, grandchildren, and a great-grandchild. Being content with everything that has transpired in my life. I’m proud of my family and I’m at peace with the world. Heaven on earth is, most of all, my wife, Ruth. (Dad)
- A newborn baby’s smile. (Peg)
- Heaven on Earth is love at first sight…and the miracle of marriage. (Megan)
- Being with Patty and Buddy in our home. (Sam)
- The children of the world being loved, cared for and valued, and being a catalyst for that to happen. (Patty)
- Waking up to a bright morning sun, the smell of fresh sticky buns in the oven, and Claire’s laugh. (Bill)
- World peace. People living full lives. No war. People loving life. (Terry O.)
- Remembering to feel the Divine connectedness in all moments, all things, and all people. Imagining a world where all people feel that connectedness and love the spark of beauty and uniqueness in each other, where each one lives and enjoys their own unique gifts passionately. Such a world will harbor no ill or anger or war. It will be a miraculous, beautiful symphony of differences. (Rosie)
- To be around my kids, especially when they start having families, and to be near family members. (Mar)
- The recognition of how blessed my life truly is. I feel so much gratitude for the gifts I’ve received — family, friends, and teachers. The only way to appreciate God’s gifts is by giving back and living as compassionately and selflessly as I can. (Donna)
Martin Rutte
