Q. I just finished day 50 in my 54-day novena, and at the very end of my novena prayers, I experienced terrible and vulgar thoughts. I am so upset. Should I repeat the novena prayers? Go to confession? Repeat it as a penance?
A. Do nothing. It is perfectly fine. It is scrupulosity trying to ruin something that is good. Do not give in to the feeling. Accept that these things happen, and move on. As upsetting as it might be, it is not reflective of any reality other than the reality of scrupulosity.
Q. I depend on others to take me to Mass. Is it OK to not want to bother someone on a Saturday when it is their birthday to take me, even if it means I would not be able to attend the Mass?
A. It is OK. It is a decision that you need to make, and it is a reasonable choice. It demonstrates that you are not taking this person for granted, and that you appreciate their effort. It is a kind, mature, and generous choice.