21- EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS
		
		The Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross originated 
		in Jerusalem in 355 to commemorate the dedication of the 
		Basilica of the Resurrection. When the true cross of Jesus
		was found shortly afterwards, this event was commemorated 
		on the same day. In time, the Feast of the Exaltation 
		supplanted the feast of the dedication. 
		
		
		In 395, St. John Chrysostom wrote of three crosses which 
		were discovered beneath Golgotha by the Empress Helena. 
		Many other writers speak of miracles which occured through
		contact with the true cross. It was through one of these 
		miracles that the true cross was recognized by St. Helena 
		and St. Macarius, the Bishop of Jerusalem. 
		
		
		The Holy Cross was kept in the Basilica of the Resurrection
		in Jerusalem until 614, when the Persians conquered the 
		city and burned the church. In 628, Emperor Heraclius III 
		defeated the Persians and returned the Holy Cross to 
		Jerusalem. A portion of the cross was taken to Rome in 
		the seventh century by Sergius I, a Pope of Byzantine 
		origin. 
		
		
		Icons of the Feast usually portray St. Macarius in the 
		center of the Icon, elevating the Holy Cross and showing 
		it to the people. This elevation or uplifting of the Cross
		shows its prominence as the sign of victory. Hence the 
		name "Exaltation" or "Elevation of the Holy Cross." St. 
		Constantine the Emperor, and St. Helena, his mother, are 
		frequently shown, although some icons depict only St. 
		Helena. Gathered about the Cross with St. Macarius and 
		St. Helena are bishops, priests, and hymnographers. With 
		them, too, we are joined in oneness of mind and purpose 
		as we sing: "We bow to Your cross, a Lord, and we praise 
		Your holy resurrection." 
		
		
		TROPARION -Save Your people, O Lord, and bless Your 
		inheritance; grant victory to Your Church over its enemies
		and protect Your people by Your cross.
		

		
		I really am okay with me
		
		
		We have such poor images of ourselves that we have difficulty 
		understanding the good others see in us. When someone gives us 
		a compliment, we are quick to point our what is wrong. When 
		someone supports or encourages us, we remind them of our 
		failures. We play ourselves down to such a degree that others 
		begin to question the faith they have placed in us. This 
		vicious cycle can only lower our already low self-esteem. Today
		is a good time to rethink our thoughts about ourselves. We can 
		accept the compliments we receive when we give them to 
		ourselves first. We can build our confidence by celebrating 
		our small victories and successes. We can support the faith 
		and trust in ourselves. It all begins with our willingness to 
		acknowledge that we are really fine, just the way we are.
		
		
		You are as much as you are right now.