John's Picture

Mike and Dad were comparing notes the other day about people we have become aware of as of late who keep John's picture close at hand. What was notable was not the fact that these individuals keep John's Mass Card in all the usual places (e.g. on the refrigerator, in the pocketbook, etc.) but that so many of the people displaying John's picture in such a fashion never met him personally. And without a doubt, what was compelling for each of these individuals was not the circumstances of John's death but rather the manner in which he lived God's gift of life. Somehow, someway, without even reflecting upon it, John managed to live his day-by-day life in a manner which can serve as an inspiration to others. Like all of us, John was not a saint on earth; rather he was someone who loved life and lived it to the fullest and thus, without even trying, has proved to be an inspired example to so many others. And because of this, the ripples of John's life will continue to influence others long after the photos have faded away.