Dear Parish Family, How do you see others? The Catholic Church proclaims “Human Life is sacred and the dignity of the human person is the foundation of a moral society.” To truly see someone, we have to embrace and see their light. This has to be true light, not a poor imitation. Jesus loved us with true love and saw us as individuals, not with condescending affection for some. Our challenge may be to see through to the heart and soul and not just the image presented to us. The opposite is true as Pope Francis tells us “Whoever serves and gives, often seems like a failure in the eyes of the world. It is exactly in giving their life, that they find it.” Are you aware of others? Do you see those around you and treat them with respect and dignity? How do they see me? We may see ourselves differently than others see us. Am I a person of integrity and a balanced ego or have I inflated myself and not even recognize who I truly am? Arriere – ponse’e means to have concealed thoughts, intentions, or ulterior motives. Does this apply to me? Do others see us as upbeat with a smile or “Debbie Downer”? The old cliché “the glass is half full or half empty” immediately comes to mind. In (MK8:34-37) “one’s conformity to the image of Jesus Christ, which includes taking up one’s cross, denying oneself, giving one’s life in service of others, and following him.” It is a lifelong mission to uncover the truth of who we really are. Asking ourselves, “do I embody values of mercy, humility, courage, and compassion?” In prayer, let’s ask God to increase our awareness of ourselves and others. Have a blessed day! Mary Jo