A Miracle!

 Today, I am 44 years ordained. I was ordained with the Paulist Fathers, and eight other guys on this date in 1977.  I am the oldest one of the nine.  I had plans,  But so did God and God’s plans did not line up well with mine.  I thought I was hot stuff early on.  I needed humility.  I thought I was a great success.  I needed failure.  I thought I knew myself pretty well, and would tell you if you asked.  I was delusional.  I had the answers, but not the questions.  I knew what was wrong with you, but not with me.  I have had great ups and great downs.  The downs were the best of times for spiritual, emotional growth, but it took a few downs to realize this.  But the miracle is that I am still here, the priest.  It is a blessing that there are people who know my faults, mistakes, messes, and still love me.  The best part of my 44 years as a priest is that I mess up, but am still loved.