Church of SS. Cosmas and Damian
A Thought for Travelers

     A spiritual seeker traveled far and wide and came to the simple hut where a renowned master lived. Seeing hardly any possession in the room, the visitor asked: “How is it that you have very little baggage with you?” But I am on a journey.” Replied the seeker. “So am I,” answered the master.
     We are on a journey. Either we find the journey meaningful and worthwhile because of the lovely destination (and the love sustaining us along the way – God’s love), or we get frightened and desperate as we take refuge in material possessions. We must not overlook one essential truth – life is not something that we can cling to. It is like a bus journey. Though it is sensible to buy a ticket and sit down it would be ridiculous to get so attached to the seat that one refuses to get off. This earth is not our permanent home. It is only a place of passage. This does not mean that we should despise our earthly journey or any gift we receive on the way. It is valuable and is to be enjoyed gratefully (or sacrificed gracefully) but not clung to.
     May we learn, before it is too late, that like a bus or train, this life is a passage (to be enjoyed as far as possible). It is not meant for permanent settlement. Have you ever prayed this verse from the psalms: “Make us know the shortness of life, that we may learn wisdom of heart.”?
     Fr. George Alengadan, S.D.B.