It is hard to believe that it is 2010. We are in the “tweens” as I heard someone call it and won’t be out of them for ten years, when we hit the 20’s. Seems a long time away but you can bet your boots that the decade will go by fast. We certainly seem to be in the “tween” times in the world today. We have had another great disaster in our world. Thousands have died in Haiti, thousands lay wounded and without food, shelter or clothing. We have all seen scenes of devastation and miracles of heroism and generosity as men, women and children are pulled from the rubble after being trapped for days. One scene stays with me. Maybe you saw it. A woman trapped deep in rubble for several days, her hand pinned between huge slabs of concrete rendering her unable to move, is finally pulled from the rubble. She is alert and amazingly begins to sing. As she lay on a makeshift stretcher reporter asks her if she thought she would live to see this day. Her answer was simple, yet profound: “Why not?” I saw a scene of others standing around a campfire holding hands and singing hymns. I heard many people professing faith in God in the face of this devastation and others giving themselves selflessly for others. The disaster brought out the worst in people as well. I found it hard to believe that people who had access to water were selling it to hungry and thirsty people; people who had some money. Most had none and were therefore turned away and had to search elsewhere for what you and I take for granted every day.

Without hesitation, Loyola has provided me with one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. The spiritual nourishment received from many brilliant and devoted Jesuits, has directly bridged me over many of my life’s challenges. As a result, I am much more appreciative of the many blessings in my life - my expanding wonderful family, many enriching relationships and many opportunities to utilize my training and experience for the Proclamation of the Word. In short, I communicate with and thank God everyday.