Fr. Don's Daily Reflection - July 24, 2024
Psalm 62: “In you alone is my soul at rest. My help comes from you.”
Ron as a twenty-three old volunteer provides respite care for four men in the Appalachian hills: Sam, 29, was born with Spina Bifida; Jake, 68, had a stroke four years ago; Bill, 65, has MS; and Bart, 85, “Well, he's just getting up there, I guess.” The work is challenging but “they're such fun to be with that I forget about that part of it.” They've taught him about taming horses, using everything from a garden, keeping bee hives, making soup beans, corn bread, buttermilk cake, peanut butter pie and squirrel hot dish.
It might be good to note here that Ron isn't some kind of odd person who is “naturally” drawn to misery, illness and poverty. He's an unflagging marathon runner and the kind of person who is ready to be surprised and awed by the richness of the wider world as he moves more and more from his own small town origins.
Most of us would be daunted by the prospect of handling such men and their needs. But what a great field for a generous and energetic young person! Obviously, his experience is a two-way street; he gives a lot but receives a lot. Those of us who look at such activity with a bit of fear and concern find it hard to believe that such demanding and even messy work can do that. It's something we can only learn by doing. We have to dare a bit to realize it. “It is in giving that we receive....”
Psalm 27: “I believe I shall see the Lord’s goodness / in the land of the living.
Wait for the Lord; be strong; / be stouthearted, and wait for the Lord!”
