Wednesday of the Twenty-fourth Week

When we were young, words sprang easily to our lips. “All you need is love.” This power could transform this sad old world. I was not born to crush or despise others. Now is the time for redemption. Now is the time for love.

Like an old movie, the enthusiasm of the young may later bring a smile. Remember those enchanted evenings? Eyes brimming with desire? Remember the horizon that beckoned? When perfection lay within our grasp? Our seamless hopes?

Now we are knowing. We heed the gong of tasks and goals. Years pass swiftly. Virtues are acquired. We strive to practice our faith. Cynicism is put to rout daily.

But love remains our source. Love does last. In the community that erodes the indifference between us. In the wonder at listening to the story hidden in someone’s heart. In the enormous relief that I am not alone. In the dim sense that perhaps each moment is a gift. Love makes sense. Thinkers who proclaim that human life is meaningless do not convince us. Has that wise man known love? Love persuades us to go on living. In love, God’s reality is finally realized.

When we were young, perfection lay within our reach. Sure, it takes more work than anyone realized. But we were right. Strive for perfection. It leads back to love.