Last week, at Mass I debuted some of my “spectacular” dance moves. I noticed many of you laughing with me as I attempted to moonwalk to My Girl by the Temptations. When I look back at that homily, that was a fun illustration to remind our parish that we need to “keep dancing.” Did you know that while we are dancing, there is a chemical released in our brain that helps fight off stress and anxiety? I find this another fascinating way that God has wired us for joy.
What is bringing you joy right now? Write it down if you can. When we name it, we can claim it. It must have been a joyful experience for the 18,000 Johnnie fans packed into the stadium watching their team win. Even more, joyful, was hearing all of the great stories that came out about Johnnie’s legendary coach John Gagliardi who passed last week. Coach Gagliardi had a significant impact on so many young souls in his time coaching. He was a great coach and an even better man. The Johnnies victor was a great way to celebrate a life well lived.
The simple act of creating a joy list can help us see the many blessings God has placed in our life. There is a temptation in life to always focus on how our lives could be better or how they will be better in the future. However, so often we miss the joy in the present. By creating this list, we remind ourselves of the good that God continues to do in our lives.
Lastly, thanks to everyone who made our harvest of gifts a success and especially to John Abel for his leadership. John tells me that 118 folks signed up to volunteer with the many ministries that make St. Victoria special. Our heartfelt thanks to every person who signed up for a volunteer opportunity (or for more than one). I am sure you will find it a fulfilling, even joyful, experience. If you are still interested in signing up, please visit stvictoria.net/harvest.
Have a week full of joy,
Fr. Bob
