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Love and Time

Once upon a time, there was an island where all the feelings lived: Happiness, Sadness, Knowledge, and all of the others, including Love. One day it was announced to the feelings that the island would sink, so all constructed boats and left. Except for Love.
Love was the only one who stayed. Love wanted to hold out until the last possible moment.
When the island had almost sunk, Love decided to ask for help.
Richness was passing by Love in a grand boat. Love said,
"Richness, can you take me with you?"
Richness answered, "No, I can't. There is a lot of gold and silver in my boat. There is no place here for you."
Love decided to ask Vanity who was also passing by in a beautiful vessel. "Vanity, please help me!"
"I can't help you, Love. You are all wet and might damage my boat," Vanity answered.
Sadness was close by so Love asked, "Sadness, let me go with you."
"Oh . . . Love, I am so sad that I need to be by myself!"
Happiness passed by Love, too, but she was so happy that she did not even hear when Love called her.
Suddenly, there was a voice, "Come, Love, I will take you." It was an elder. So blessed and overjoyed, Love even forgot to ask the elder where they were going. When they arrived at dry land, the elder went her own way. Realizing how much was owed the elder,
Love asked Knowledge, another elder, "Who Helped me?"
"It was Time," Knowledge answered.
"Time?" asked Love. "But why did Time help me?"
Knowledge smiled with deep wisdom and answered, "Because only Time is capable of understanding how valuable Love is."
~author unknown~

I SAW AN ANGEL

I am pretty sure that I saw an Angel the other day. The halo wasn't there, but I am sure that it was hidden under the hat he had on. I couldn't see the wings either, but I am positive that they were covered up by the heavy coat he was wearing. I know the cane he walked with was just a part of the disguise as well. You can't expect an angel to just fly down the street in full glory without drawing some attention.
 
Still, in spite of his ordinary clothes I am convinced that I saw an angel. The way he stooped down to pick up a package an elderly lady dropped was my first clue. The way he bent down to scratch a stray dog's head was further evidence of the fact. The clincher, though, was the way he beamed with a joyous smile as he gave something to a man collecting for charity and then wished him all the best with a voice that seemed to laugh and sing at the same time.

I wish this dear angel continued success in his chosen work of spreading love, joy, and light to the world. I know in my heart that the power of love and the goodness of God will be shared with everyone he meets. I know in my soul that there will be much singing, dancing, and rejoicing in Heaven when this blessed angel finally rejoins their midst. I know that my own heart and soul have grown stronger, better, and more loving for having seen him.

Angels do live among us. They surround us, guide us, protect us, and give us their beautiful example day after day. Some of them we can't see, but some of them walk right by us leaning on their canes and covered in their tattered old coats and hats. May all of us recognize them for who they are. May all of us follow their example. May all of us choose and share love and joy like these angels do.  
Joseph J. Mazzella

Sermons We See

listen to the MP3 recording of "Sermons we see":

"I'd rather see a sermon
     than hear one any day;
I'd rather one should walk with me
     than merely tell the way.
The eye's a better pupil
     and more willing than the ear,
Fine counsel is confusing,
     but example's always clear;
And the best of all preachers
     are the men who live their creeds,
For to see good put in action
     is what everybody needs.
I soon can learn to do it
     if you'll let me see it done;
I can watch your hands in action,
     but your tongue too fast may run.
And the lecture you deliver
     may be very wise and true,
But I'd rather get my lessons
     by observing what you do;
For I might misunderstand you
     and the high advice you give,
But there's no misunderstanding
     how you act and how you live."

Edgar Guest