Stories Collected While Living in France

French la Vie

In Honor of the Bells at Notre Dame

In Honor of the Bells at Notre Dame

In Honor of the Bells at Notre Dame

In Honor of the Bells at Notre Dame

I found this little bell medal today at the brocante.

In the distance, but close to what I hold true, I could hear the bells of Notre Dame ringing.

We are shaped by what we hold, by what we love, by that which guides us. 

Thank you, my dear readers, for following my blog, inspiring me to write my daily thoughts, encouraging others as you do in the comment section, and for your steadfast support. 

Could you tell me in the comment section what you are hoping for? What prayer rings out from you today? I will randomly pick someone from the comment section tomorrow and send this little bell.

Enjoy the day!

Related articles
The New Bells for Notre Dame

Comments

74 responses to “In Honor of the Bells at Notre Dame”

  1. WR

    More than anything, I hope for our continued health so that we may enjoy our retirement together.

    Reply
  2. kipper

    That an elderly relative continue to be alert and able to safely live independently as she wishes. She may be old,but she is also quite stubborn and refuses to live with family.

    Reply
  3. Evelyn

    Hoping and praying for the health and safety of those closest to me….my daughter, my son, his wife, and my mother. They are wonderful and have so much to offer. They give so much and expect nothing….:)

    Reply
  4. Evelyn

    elugo@ycsd.york.va.us
    Prayers for my family…for their health and safety….my daughter, son, daughter-in–law, and my mother. Wonderful and giving individuals….

    Reply
  5. Cathi

    The health of all of my family and friends, and the wish that my recently deceased friends family finds comfort in all of the wonderful memories of her fabulous and loving life.
    Also that my son and his wife, (who after 7 years of trying to have conceive finally did and after 4 months had a miscarriage.) are able to become parents soon. There are babies galore being born in our family and its a wonderful thing, but as a parent it hurts my heart for my kids knowing what wonderful parents they would make. xxoo

    Reply
  6. Jennifer

    Everyday there is so much to be thankful for however I also pray for a buyer for our home as it has been three plus years now and I long to wake up next to my dear hubby all through the week instead of just two nights per most weeks.
    I look forward to every post and so enjoy seeing life in France through your eyes, Corey.

    Reply
  7. Denise Solsrud

    number 1 for me is peace and the children. something needs to improve. why should our children be abused,raped,starving? these are our precious gifts from God and we need to protect and cherish them. we have so much and others so little. there should never be any hungary children. Bestest

    Reply
  8. Barbara Snow

    The common themes are so consistent: health and safety for our families and loved ones. On a broader scale, peace in the worl and and easing of suffering. These are such universal goals – why is it that some days they seem impossible to achieve. I guess the trick it never stop trying or praying for them. A lovely, thought-provoking post. THank you.
    Barb in Minnesota

    Reply
  9. Zosia

    Health for my family, especially for my father and my older sister.

    Reply
  10. g

    Today is Mercy Sunday-an honor and recalling of the great mercies that pour forth from the love of THE SON of GOD-this is and has always been a favorite day of mine even before Blessed Pope John Paul II put it on the calender of feasts for the chruch-a polish nun who lived in “modern” times was instumental in fostering Devine Mercy-so on this day my personal hopes ,dreams and prayers are for Corey’s friend who suffers with depression and all who suffer any sort of mental illness imbalance, for friends and neighbors who are either under employed or unemployed, for those of us with broken hearts that seek the partnership of another,for those of us lacking in shelter food medical care, for animals that suffer at the hands of humans and are lacking shelter food and human affections-for those i have hurt in this life and those that have hurt me-for my dad and sister always!!!-and seriously for kiki who reads this blog and has trouble sleeping and asked for prayers and for all readers of this blog and that which they-we all carry in the secrets of our heart whispered only to the one that we pray to- and one last intention is for my cat tt who has something going on with his eye that the eye doctor and regular vet cannot seem to get ahead of…for everyone peace to all and to our spirits!!

    Reply
  11. Star

    I am no different than your other commenters. I pray for health and well-being for myself and those I love and care for, peace for all of us, respect one for another, caring for the earth that God has entrusted to us, understanding, common ground on which to build relationships, appreciation for the nature which surrounds us, etc.
    I love coming here every day, whether I leave a comment or not. I love the feeling of ‘knowing’ the other commenters and caring about their needs as well. There are few bloggers who have the knack of creating an atmosphere to foster those relationships, and yours is one of them.
    I’ve read quite a bit about the new bells at Notre Dame. I’m so glad I can experience some of that magical quality through the Internet.

    Reply
  12. Denise

    Family. You can be dirt poor but rich in family. Family is the safe haven to weather all storms in life. I pray and wish for the safety of my daughters everyday.
    I wish for my mother to wake up and be pain free. I see in face everyday how she is getting older and know my time with her will end. I wish for all the moments I can spend with her. She is still active but it pains her and she suffers in silence.
    That my grandchildern can live in a free and peaceful world. I pray for all wars to end.
    There are many things but those are the ones dear to my heart.
    Family. Love. Peace.

    Reply
  13. Kim G.

    I am praying that God would bless our family with a home we can purchase in our little town.

    Reply
  14. Bev S.

    Today my prayers are of thanksgiving as our son is 115 days sober and has agreed to go to a wonderful hiking adventure this summer in British Columbia. I am so very, very thankful.

    Reply
  15. Janet with Eiffel

    I want, I need, I pray for…….
    the fighting to stop.
    We have lost too many brothers, fathers,
    sisters, friends, and grandchildren to war.
    Please God, make it stop.

    Reply
  16. Maryann McCool

    Thank you Corey so much for this blog. I look forward to it every day.
    I practice each day to be in a constant state of appreciation for everything I have and all wonderful things that are coming.

    Reply
  17. Sue Young

    Hoping for my husband’s return to health and sanity… And perhaps thd survival of our 35 year marriage.
    Corey, your blog is one I check every single day for its beauty and inspiration, not to mention
    feeding my craving for anything French.
    Xo

    Reply
  18. Marilyn

    Yes, like so many others I pray for health in my family. For my husband who is having dizzy spells and to my daughter who was recently diagnosed with MS. I also pray constantly for peace in the world.

    Reply
  19. Frank Purrkins

    To me, hope is an expectation and expectations are like guilt … a waste of time. The only control I can possibly have is my reaction to the cards I’m dealt every day. And if the hand is a little overwhelming, I curl up and take a nap.

    Reply
  20. Jeannie

    I am hoping that my Dad’s suffering will cease. Either he regains his abilities or passes in his sleep, anything to stop his suffering. I am also praying for patience with my Mom. Life is hard for her right now watching the love of her life for 65 years fail. Although we have never been close, she needs me right now. Patience and tact are the lessons I am learning now. (Thank you Corey for sharing your beautiful part of the world, for inspiring me with the beauty of your home and your spiritual being. I am grateful.)

    Reply
  21. Frank Purrkins

    Oh, maybe “waste of time” is harsh. I just think hope and expectations lead to unnecessary suffering. Better to focus on the “what is” than the “what may be”.

    Reply
  22. Michele

    HOPE! What a wonderful word, idea, reality! My HOPE is that ALL may be HOPE filled bout something – anything!
    HOPE = Honoring the Omnipresence of Perpetual Eternity.
    In other words: Regarding with great respect the state of being everywhere at once while never ending or changing the timelessness we ar promised.
    BLESSINGS to ALL!

    Reply
  23. Laurie SF

    A quiet world..
    I hope for peace.
    Your blog is a gift each and everyday. Thank you, Corey..xx

    Reply
  24. carol

    Like so many others I am praying for good health for family, friends and myself and that God will guide my children in all that they do and keep them safe. I am also hoping that my son will be able to keep his college scholarship so that he can continue his college career.

    Reply
  25. carol

    Thank you for your blog, dear Corey. It is always full of hope and love.

    Reply
  26. Judith

    I hope for peace and civility in our elected officials. I hope for wars to end across our planet. I hope for clean air, water, and food. I pray for the health and happincess of my family. I pray for the poor across the world.

    Reply
  27. Sue

    I hope for security, if anyone can send good thoughts our way I would really appreciate it, our home is in jeopardy. Thank you

    Reply
  28. Becky F

    My prayer today and everyday is for health, peace and happiness. Lately I have been offering up a prayer each day for those that who are sick, lonely, hurting and have no one to care for them.

    Reply
  29. Patti Lloyd

    Be soft. Do not let the world make you hard. Do not let the pain make you hate. Do not let the bitterness steal your sweetness. Take pride that even though the rest of the world may disagree, you still believe it to be a beautiful place. (I can’t find who authored this, but a friend shared it on Facebook) With this in mind, I think praying that more can find the beauty is a good thing.

    Reply
  30. Pamela RG

    I pray for excellent health and healing for me and my family. I pray for a loving and faithful life partner. I pray that God may have mercy on us, for everyone to feel God’s love and mercy and to never give up! May God bless us all!

    Reply
  31. Di

    I am hoping for some direction for a new season in my life. I am out of my rut, and feeling a little lost. I know God will guide, but it feels rather scary right now.
    Di

    Reply
  32. Lauren slavin.

    I just moved and need to build all new relationships, I am praying to be giving, vulnerable and consistent in how I give to new friends.

    Reply
  33. Laurie

    I am hoping that my children find what will motivate, inspire and fulfill them as they travel through life.

    Reply
  34. head in the sun

    I’m really hoping for a sunny day.
    That’ll do.
    A nice, sunny day.

    Reply
  35. cindy courtright

    I pray for my daughters. Two grown women who have flown from my nest. I taught them to fly and now they are soaring, still in need of my prayers.

    Reply
  36. g

    sue i will add you to my intentions-

    Reply
  37. becky up a hill

    My hope and prayer is for my husband..he is having major heart surgery in a week and I pray for the man who has the kindest heart of all to get his heart fixed. Married 33 years this May~

    Reply
  38. Amelia W

    I am praying that I can get through these two plane flights this week! I am very nervous because I have never flown alone.
    However, what’s on the other side is so exciting, it’s worth it!
    I get to see one of my best friends that I haven’t seen in four months!
    And then I get to present my research at a conference!

    Reply
  39. Sharyn

    Commenting from the land down under, Australia. My 16 year old grand daughter is currently in your beautiful country, visiting with her School, enjoying learning more of your language. My prayer and hopes for her are to have a wonderful final week in Paris, soaking up the culture and learning all she can about the people and customs. I am so envious of her, and hope to also visit your country some day. I visit your blog almost every day and enjoy your musings.

    Reply
  40. Suzanna

    Aww, I remember the new Notre Dame bell pics you sent, I hope one day I too will find true love and have a companion ~ I find my joy reading about so many others here who share their life with their husband and it brings me hope ~ we all have such commonality in so many ways when I drop by here and for this I feel hope and a sense of connection ~ XO

    Reply
  41. Mardog

    Every day their is much to be thankful for. Simple things.
    Thank you Coco.

    Reply
  42. Lisa

    I pray for the health and happiness of my children. That they will always find love and happiness in their lives and make a positive impact on this earth…love this little bell. I see it in a necklace made with vintage rosary bits and bobs

    Reply
  43. Paulette

    I hope that a dear friend turns a corner in her recovery from major surgery. It was worse than expected, and she is dealing with the aftermath of pain and depression.

    Reply
  44. Barbara

    I pray my daughter and her husband are able to become pregnant after all they have been through trying!

    Reply
  45. Denise

    I pray for my husband’s business and our daughter’s wisdom. For the Holy Spirit to surround us all.

    Reply
  46. Denise

    And I praise God that he saved my husband’s life last Easter Eve.

    Reply
  47. Paula S In New Mexico

    My hope and prayer is that a young family find their way.

    Reply
  48. Laura Kirste Campbell

    Praying for healing for Bev (her Lymphoma has returned).

    Reply
  49. Vicki from Willows

    I “pray” to have the strength and laughter to LIVE every day as if it was my last. I “hope” to be the MOST I can be every day and always remember to say “Be Safe and I Love You” to all who are dear to me. And, finally, to be kind to all, as someone who may seem to be stranger at first moment can become a life-long friend with the blink of an eye. Life is a journey and we should always travel with open hearts thru this fabulous adventure. Thanx to all for considering my thoughts 🙂

    Reply
  50. Cara

    For the Peace of God to stay with each friend here who has shared their prayer with us. For safety in our City as our young men have been tempted into crime, and are paying with their lives. For mercy and grace among those who care for animals. For gratitude and praise for all the myriad blessings we are given, and especially for His healing touch upon all who have been mentioned here.

    Reply
  51. Irene

    Last week I returned from a visit to your beautiful France. We found the people there so friendly and the beauty of Paris and the Cathedral of Notre Dame so moving. I thought of all the craftsmen and women who created this splendid city through the centuries. Sometimes these facades mask the desperation of the unemployed who live there presently. My wish is that all those who are out of work throughout the world find jobs to sustain themselves and their families.

    Reply
  52. Val

    Get in touch with nature and plant a tree or grow a garden. And then share your seeds with others.

    Reply
  53. Roberta

    I am always in prayer for the health and happiness of my dear children and grandchildren. And for their heart’s true desires.

    Reply
  54. Paivi

    I’m praying for my two children to find their own paths in life. It hasn’t been too easy for either of them during the last years. These young ones are the future of people and I’m praying for a brilliant future for them.

    Reply
  55. judyo

    Today I am praying for a safe flight to visit a friend who is battling ovarian cancer. I pray for her health and that of my family, children and grandchildren ( the ones here and the little one coming in June)! And always I pray for Peace on Earth.

    Reply
  56. Teresa Cesario

    The healing Love of Jesus, rain down on us.

    Reply
  57. marlis

    Today, yesterday and for a year now, I’ve been praying that our youngest son puts the past behind him, moves forward, makes new friends and has a productive life. Praying for his well being. And I’ve seen glimpses of God’s goodness in so many things that I know all will be well. Bless you Corey for reaching out to everyone through cyber space! Your warm heart can be felt through your words. xo marlis

    Reply
  58. Cheryl in Wisconsin

    I know that asking for “world peace” sounds cliche, but right now there is so much unrest in some countries that it makes everyone ill at ease, daily.

    Reply
  59. Tracy

    Well – my prayer – my mantra – for my son is as it has always been – “Dear Lord, pleases watch over my son. Please keep him safe and free from harm. Please guide him in making good decisions for his life.” – Amen

    Reply
  60. Molly

    To find JOY every day!!!!

    Reply
  61. Kristin McNamara Freeman

    Corey…Today as is my morning practice, I write and put my hopes and prayers to the pages of journals now filling several shelves of the bookcase…years of thoughts and prayers, years of wondering and hopes, years of feeling joys and sadness all sit in those books…words expressing what is paramount for me on that day. Each day I read your words and delight in the beauty of the journey you share with us all…..freely, openly, with heart. And if I must select one hope for my journey it is that I will always listen to my heart and write from that place of care and deep love; that my steps will follow my thoughts and that I will be kind and considerate in all my interactions with others and with this beautiful earth.

    Reply
  62. Marcia Miner

    I can’t help loving every moment as I sort through 4 generations of “stuff” in my historic New England house, that my ancestor, bought, in 1803 that had been burned by the British in 1779 and rebuilt the same year His second wife bore him 12 children here and a letter from one daughter complains that her sea captain father’s third wife in 1834 is changing all the rooms particularly, “the little room were grannny and I slept” I am shipping things off to museums, such as letters beginning in 1924 to my mother from a little girl on Pitcairn Island, named Virginia Christian a direct descendent of Fletcher Christian who led the Mutiny on the Bounty.It is a monumental job, but one that enriches each day. Part of the house was a post office, another section on the property was a ship’s store, so between broadsides about the Captain’s ships that travelled up the Hudson and the cousin who was elected to the State house 17 times, my work is cut out for me and is a joy to do each day.

    Reply
  63. Debra

    It is simple for me, Corey. I am hoping that my husband can keep his business going or find a job related to it since he has been such an incredible provider and hard working man for his family. And, I, too hope for a job to help my children.
    The little bell you found is so special.

    Reply
  64. Peggy Braswell

    Each morning, I thank God for each breath I take + everything I have had or am going to be gifted with. Thank you God + Corey. xxpeggybraswelldesign.com

    Reply
  65. Dawn Fleming

    Bells are very special; they can make beautiful music and ring for special occasions or they can indicate mourning. Over the weekend Pastor Rick Warren’s son who suffered from bipolar disorder took his life. Because Warren is a pastor of the mega church Saddleback in CA this has been all over the news in Chicago & probably across the U.S. My daily prayers include those suffering from mental illness. I wish that peace and a balance of life would come to those who suffer so that they can realize God gave them all a life worth living. There is so much to pray for, isn’t there?

    Reply
  66. Brenda, Walker, LA

    I always pray for Wisdom and Guidance, If the Lord gives me that it kinda covers all my requests, which He knows even before I have had a chance to think of them!
    God Bless you Corey, with the desires of your heart!

    Reply
  67. Brenda, Walker, LA

    I always pray for Wisdom and Guidance, If the Lord gives me that it kinda covers all my requests, which He knows even before I have had a chance to think of them!
    God Bless you Corey, with the desires of your heart!

    Reply
  68. Amy Bauer

    I pray that God guides us to the perfect middle-school for our 12-year-old daughter…. the one she should attend geographically is poor, so we’re looking for other opportunities. Andy every day I pray to walk the path that God would have for me…. to do His will and use my gifts for His kingdom. Bless you for your lovely blog!

    Reply
  69. Lora R.

    my hope is simple, for an affordable, clean hotel near notre dame cathedral this summer when i bring my new husband for a visit. i have everything else i need: love, happiness and good health. thank you for your blog.

    Reply
  70. Charland

    I was so touched by your story of the bells being blessed before they were rehung in Notre Dame. And I think the person who should be given your little bell should be your friend in the hospital. It could bring him peace and healing.

    Reply
  71. Tammy

    The greatest hopes in my heart are that my husband and I will soon have a child of our own through the miracle of adoption and that I am able to find a new job very soon. I recently quit the job I had as it was killing my soul and the job I was doing definitely not worth giving my soul for. So I hope to find that job that makes the most of my creative gifts and abilities soon so I can keep contributing financially to our little family.

    Reply
  72. monika

    I am afraid that today, my hopes are not lofty, but prosaic and mundane. I just hope that I will be paid soon; I have not been paid for the past 4 weeks, and our financial situation is dire. Our car broke down on the way home tonight, and so there is yet another bill. I do not know what we will do if my pay cheques do not come through…
    The past 18 months have been particularly difficult; we have been on the brink the entire time. Now, finally, when I have a good job, just where I wanted to be, this…
    …And I am also hoping and praying for a tiny dog named Beth, who was cruelly abused and abandoned on Dead Dog Beach. Now that she is safe, she has shut down. I pray she finds the will to live, for she finally has love.

    Reply
  73. Debbie

    So pleased your story had a happy ending!

    Reply
  74. Kt

    Corey.
    I’m praying for the continued good health of my friend marylee. She is recovering from her third brain tumor and just left my home for her eleven hour drive back to her home, singing all the way!

    Reply

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