Idle at Yes

"Idle at Yes." That's a quote from my brother's best friend, Mark Alessio, who died a year ago while travelling in Madagascar. He was the kind of person who lived life to the full, every day a new adventure. Last night my brother presented a memorial award in his name to a deserving basketball player at Queen's University. He and Mark had met on the squad years ago.
I like the quote, a great reminder that opportunities are offered every day. Sometimes we just need a reminder to say 'yes'.

Haiti

Prayers and peace to all those suffering in Haiti. See my article in this coming weekend's Voice for reflection on God's presence in suffering.

Justice and Righteousness

It's interesting that in the French translations of the bible, the word righteousness is translated as 'justice'. It reminds me that when I think of being right with God, I need to ask myself how well I am promoting justice and peace. Something to consider.

The picture shows my daughter Deborah participating in a peaceful protest outside the School of the Americas in Fort Benning Georgia a couple of years ago. Graduates of the school have killed hundreds, particularly in South America, including most famously Archbishop Oscar Romero of El Salvador.

Happy New Year!

It's a wonderful new year full of fresh possibilities to excel, and frequent opportunities to mess up. I don't really have any resolutions. I'm still working on all the old ones: Be kind. Be open-minded. Work for justice. Write for peace. And forgive every day - especially myself. Best wishes to all!