Gratitude for ....

Some days go by, and to the untrained eye, there is little if anyting going on. At first glance, one might think that today was one such day, but look closely and there were all kinds of things happening. For all of this, there is a word of thanks, although reasons for gratitude can sometimes seem a bit illusive.

On the other side of the world, sisters and brothers are suffering the effects of an earthquake and a typhoon. On this side of the globe, there's a part of us that is thankful because we are not there, but there is also another part of our spirits that stand with those who are suffering and grieving tonight. At the same time, we are united in spirit with those who continue the search efforts and the rescue of those who were caught unaware when nature struck.

This was also a week for celebration and tears as the announcements were made regarding the site of the 2016 Summer Olympics. So after visiting London (2012), the world will set its sights on Rio de Janeiro (2016). Brazil boasts the most Catholics of any country in the world, and it will be interesting to see what influence this predominantly Catholic country will bring to the world of Olympic competition. While Rio rejoices over this decision, Chicago and Madrid are perhaps still in shock over this decision, but even in the face of disappointment, there is room for thanksgiving because the ability to put forth an Olympic bid is truly a team effort, one that calls for cooperation from hundreds if not thousands of people.

Closer to home, this was a day for weddings, vows, promises and celebration. It was a day for families to rejoice, and for reflections to be offered about how words can challenge us to make a difference in our world. As light gives way to darkness, it's time to give thanks for all this, and to look forward in hope to what tomorrow will bring.