The cold season has begun and the days are rapidly passing by as we approach the holidays. In a few weeks we will be celebrating Thanksgiving Day and a month after will be Christmas. Before we know it, another year begins.
In these fast times, we need to pause once in a while to reflect on our blessings. I know that during the previous month we have been affected by the natural calamities that have happened in Philippines, Indonesia, and Samoa. But, still, these tragic events should not prevent us from discovering the graces of God that are hidden beneath these sad stories of the world.
The obvious blessing is witnessing the generosity of people all over the world. People want to share, to help, and to learn more about effects of these disasters on the lives of the poor. Even those that look needy are willing to share portions of their possessions. I remember a man who handed me twenty dollars after a Sunday Mass for the victims of the earthquake in Indonesia. He didn’t look rich, but he shared the little amount that he had.
The fragility of our lives and the world also make us think of the essential matters of life. Many times we go about getting too preoccupied with mundane and petty things. Those of us who are wiser realize that what gives us more fulfillment and joy in life is the ability to serve and help others.
Last week, I was so happy to be with the youth of our parish on their annual retreat at Sacred Heart Retreat Camp in Big Bear. Having time to talk individually with our youth to hear their struggles, to advise them, and to reconcile them with God and their loved ones was a wonderful feeling. At times, I realize that the youth are also the “poor” in our midst because of their need for guidance and love.
More and more, as I mature and become wiser, I believe that position, prestige, and wealth don’t mean much if they don’t make us become closer to people in their struggles. My philosophy professor was right in saying that self-realization comes only by serving others in the world. By making a difference in people’s lives, by serving the needs of the poor, we become fully human and fully alive!
Even in the midst of calamities we should not forget that God’s grace abounds. In the case of recent destructions in Asia, we could still see the saving graces of compassion, service and good leadership here in the United States and other parts of the world. May God continue to touch our hearts to see our blessings and concerns! May we experience the special joy of serving!
