There is a book in each of us

They say there is a book in each and every person.  I believe that to be true.  At a General Audience, in March, 2021, Pope Francis expressed it thus: "It is the Spirit who writes the history of the Church and of the world.  We are open books.  And in each of us, the Spirit composes original works."  

Francis expands that each person is unique.  While we all share in the one humanity, we each have our own, unique story.  The images keep rolling in front of me.  Together, we make up one, rich tapestry, which is depleted, if there is even one piece missing.  Life is lacking if but one person's contribution to the human project is lacking. 

An Irish friend recently shared with me this image of the Irish Church of his boyhood, over 50 years ago.  It shows the institutional church, a church that was and is no longer.  It is obvious who is the star of this show, the author of its unfolding story back then.  In those times, the times of my own boyhood, too much was structured and rigid, too much expected and simply given.  I have no reason to regret nor complain.  I don't.  I am actually very grateful for all I received.  However, nor do I have any reason to harken for what was.  I just take heart in where I am now.  

We live in extraordinary times, crazy times.  This may speak of our entering into that new era, spoken of by Francis.  So we leave behind what was, remembering it with thanks and learning from it, but never glorifying it.  We live now in what is, appreciating its treasure for humanity, approaching it wisely and with a healthy perspective, with the aim of not repeating past mistakes, while bettering our world.  

But do we ever learn?  Look at Ukraine; look at Ethiopia and Yemen; look at how we treat refugees; look at how we treat those who lack value in the eyes of our world.  It is heartbreaking as it is all so unnecessary. These times open us to move beyond institutional settings and givens, so that we may give healthy expression to the human sprit, a spirit that thrives on love and freedom.  .        

This age thus gives each and every person the freedom to sing their own particular song.  What is mine?  Sing it out loud and with pride.  Dare you!