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Memento homo, quia pulvis es, et in pulverem reverteris

I was going to write today about last night’s poker fundraiser, but I’ll save that for another day.

I attended Ash Wednesday Mass this morning, it moved me, on a number of fronts.

The translation of the title is: “Remember, O man, that you are dust, and unto dust you shall return.”


First, the service was conducted by our former associate-retired priest Fr. Bob. What a gentle, remarkable presence. I could feel the smile consume my face when he first appeared. His homilies are always heartfelt and meaningful. Today he appropriately spoke about Lent.

As he read the gospel, and I’ll paraphrase here, it was basically this; don’t brag or be boisterous, don’t parade around in public showing all the righteous things you may have done, God knows. Matthew 6-1: “take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them; otherwise, you will have no recompense from your heavenly Father.”

It made me think this; while I appreciate the comments I receive here, I hope it is clear that the point is not the comments I do receive, it’s what this might do to those that read my blog, find it beneficial, and do NOT comment. As I have said ad nausea, it’s not about me.

Prostate cancer aside, here’s a little unsolicited advice that I feel compelled to dispense during Lent; go do something nice for someone. It could be a friend or stranger or family member. Do it because it’s the right thing to do. Don’t do it for the accolades, don’t do it because it might make you feel better, do it because it might make them fell better.

I now step down from my pulpit, Peace be with you.

2 Responses to Memento homo, quia pulvis es, et in pulverem reverteris

  1. I am one of those that lurk and appreciate your blog, but don’t comment. Now seems like a good time to tell you that I am grateful for all you do.

    My husband also has advanced prostate cancer and was diagnosed three years ago at age 56. His original PSA was 120, Gleason 9.

    I also wanted to share with you the website of a 40something man here in our city with similar stats, in case you are interested. http://www.cycleforlife.ca/

    Once again, thanks, and good luck navigating the grey area. We are approaching it as well.

    Judy
    jlgund @ hotmail.com