Today is All Saints day. This day was instituted to celebrate all saints -- known and unknown.
I like that "unknown."
Saints walk amongst us every day.
I do not mean holy people who never do wrong. I mean those rare individuals who try to think outside the box, challenge their culture, walk their talk even when it is inconvenient.
I think of Dorothy Day, who fed so many and whose life work continues after her death.
I think of John Dear, still working hard for peace in a world that does not take peace seriously.
But I also think of "regular" men and women who are willing to follow their hearts and not the money.
"Regular" men and women who dare live their dreams at a time when people think the most important things are retirement plans and health insurance.
"Regular" men and women who pursue the vast expanse of Inner Space.
"Regular" men and women who live with joy and bliss and contentment in the face of a toxic fear that larger, earth bound forces would have us feed on.
Who has been a Saint in your life?
7 comments:
A woman named Mel has changed my life immeasurably since I met her a year ago. The wisdom that she shares over cups of tea has helped me grow, realise and learn to love myself. She's been a saint to me.
my husband Gordon is my favorite tzadik (saint)...he gives and gives from a well of love that has quenched my thirst for over 21 years! I love how you are choosing to honor the hidden saints among us...there are so many!
blessings,
Laura
my saints have been many - i am really blessed - but the ones that spring to mind are my Grandparents, Eila and Richard. They were poor hardworking generous kind funny wise and truely good people who loved me without restraint... they filled a cup in me that has never run dry and let me see the best way to live as a human without lecture or fingerwagging... i am grateful for them everyday (getting a bit teary eyed now...) thankyou for the question
I'd have to go with my wife.
She has changed my life, she gives me strength, hope and has made me realize how wonderful married life can really be.
Her love for me is never-ending.
I'm blessed in many ways.
They walk among us, these saints, they really do.
So many "regular" people, especially my parents. One man I've never met is someone I regard as a saint and he has had an indirect effect upon my life: Jean Vanier. His founding of l'Arche and his (I was going to say championing but it's simpler: love) love of people with profound disabilities has spread, making it easier for others with disabilities, like my brother who had Down's Syndrome, to be accepted.
Too many to name, Christine. My grandmothers, my mother and father, my husband, my daughter who survived atrocities in Iraq, so many...
I have had so many soulful, generous mentors and guides over the years. I give thanks for them all. Thank you for this wise reminder and perspective. We are saints to one another....
Tess, We have a few L'arche communities around here, and the people who work for them would definitely qualify as saints in my book. They are so loving and nurturing. Just amazing folks.
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