No saint is a true saint in every sense of the word. First of all every saint is a human being who isn’t perfect, makes mistakes and does bad things from time to time. Perfection is impossible. Looking for the good in people is difficult in a world full of cynics and people looking for those gotcha moments to tear people down. I believe there is saint-like characteristics in most people, maybe we would be better if we encouraged people to exhibit those traits more often. A person is known by their spirit and the fruit they bear. Kindness and love can make people strive to be Saints despite their imperfections.
Labor Day In America
Observed on the first Monday in September, Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers. It was created by the labor movement in the late 19th century and became a federal holiday in 1894. (From History.com)
To everyone who has worked to build their families and communities I salute you. Be proud of what you have done to make this world better. Whether you are punching a clock or drawing a salary your work matters. Work hard and live well. Thank you for your service to those who are working. Here is to those who are looking for their next opportunity.
My Faith Posts
I hope you aren’t offended or put-off by my posts on faith. My goal is to share my faith without tearing anyone else’s down. This blog is not about Bible-thumping either. Religion is a part of who I am and plays a “character” in my blogging. Thank you for your understanding. Grace and peace to you.
I See My Creator
I see my creator in the Eucharist, the bread and wine, the body and blood and homily of my priest at my parish. I see it in the actions of people who show kindness and inclusion of all people regardless of race, creed, gender and orientation. Christ is revealed to those who show who he is not by words but by deeds. God is continuing to write his story and he is alive and well in his creation. The God I love opens His arms like is son did in his death. Through that opens the doors to eternity. Today I say to you my friends The Lord Be With You…always.
(To my friends of other faiths and traditions I affirm what you believe because to do so affirms what I believe)
Earth My Body
This is from my friend David Ensley who is a Unitarian Universalist music director in Oak Ridge, TN.
Honoring Saint (Mother) Teresa of Calcutta
Today at the Vatican, Pope Francis canonized Mother Teresa of Calcutta as the newest Saint of the Catholic Church. Her charitable works have been noted in history and she made her community and the world a better place. Her life was focused on helping the poor and needy which has inspired many to do the same.
At church this morning my Sunday school class said this prayer that is attributed to her.
People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self-centered.
Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind,
people may accuse you of selfish ulterior motives.
Be kind anyway.
If you are successful,
you will win some false friends and some true enemies.
Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and frank,
people may cheat you.
Be honest and frank anyway.
What you spend years building,
someone could destroy overnight.
Build anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness,
they may be jealous.
Be happy anyway.
The good you do today,
people will often forget tomorrow.
Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have,
and it may never be enough.
Give the best you’ve got anyway.
You see,
in the final analysis it is between you and God;
it was never between you and them anyway.
The Tony Burgess Blog 