In college it’s societally acceptable to be more or less broke. “Poor college student” didn’t become a phrase without reason. With that said, despite the lack of money that typically flows through a college student’s bank account, there are a lot of financial messages sent in their direction. I want to share with you five things I wish college students knew about money.

I freaking love Les Misérables. I love it to the point of obsession, and I'm not alone. The new movie is on track to become one of the top-grossing musicals in North American history. I suppose I shouldn't be surprised. Victor Hugo's masterpiece is too full of truth, goodness, and beauty for anyone to resist. It speaks to the soul's desire to rise above suffering, follow a higher cause, and live by love. Most importantly, and I can't stress this enough, it does not follow love-crazed creatures from the netherworld with glitter issues.

Like most Catholics, I was a bit confused upon hearing the news of Pope Benedict’s resignation. Should I be sad (but he didn’t die)? Should I be excited (but a certain mourning has to happen for the service and courage of Pope Benedict XVI)? Well, eventually, my thoughts turned to who would be the next Pope.

Singles Awareness Day (S. A. D.), Cat Lady Day, Still Living in Mom’s Basement Day... you know what I’m talking about. For many who are unattached, Valentine’s Day is simply a reminder of their single status, as if Facebook didn’t highlight that enough.

You can tell it’s almost time for Lent. Ad campaigns are starting to be broadcast on television and radio indicating that McDonald’s Filet-O-Fish is back! That’s more than a joke. The Filet-O-Fish sandwich will usually start to receive nationally aired commercials throughout the season of Lent.

The icon of the Tour de France admits he cheated. He admits he lied about not cheating. He falsely accused people of lying and built a fortune by using illegal drugs and breaking all the rules. He was a cheat and an arrogant bully. But . . . he started a great foundation to fight cancer and help people. Is he a good or bad guy?

The PBS show Downton Abbey has been a raving success on both sides of the Atlantic, including here at the FOCUS headquarters. But, my interest really piqued when producer Julian Fellows noted that Season 3 would include a Catholic storyline.

Life on a Mission, New York City Style.  Follow day-by-day accounts of a FOCUS Missionary serving at NYU.

Saturday

7 AM-? – Sleeping in BABY! I wake up when my body tells me too which is usually around 8:30. Is this what happens when you're old? I then make breakfast, read, go for a run, write some letter, paint, play my guitar, chill with the roomies. Anything that brings my soul to life.