Faith does not mean getting what you want

September 20, 2026 — 5:30am

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I was five years old when I drew a wrapped parcel from a school lucky dip that contained a little statue of Mary. She wore a white veil and a blue cloak over a white dress. She was standing on the head of a snake. Her hands were spread wide, as if in welcome. Other little girls that day drew out parcels containing hair elastics or clips and I was pleased to have received something so unique, so beautiful.

Mary would become my guide through life, the gentle heavenly mother, easy to relate to through the example of my own mother, who was uplifting and creative, completely selfless and........

© The Sydney Morning Herald