Editor’s Note: If one thing has become clear during these recent historical events in our country, it’s that many people don’t appreciate the concepts of “compassion,” “humility,” “loyalty,” or “solidarity.” A Momma & Her Pen believes wholeheartedly in supporting others and championing their personal and business ventures. We all have a style, we all have a voice, and we all have a story that deserves to be shared. That’s why I’m partnering with professionals from various walks of life in a special guest column series titled “Friends With Pens.” This is a chance for these talented individuals to share their perspective and promote their accomplishments, all of which are noteworthy and amazing. The ideas, observations, and opinions expressed herein are entirely those of the writer. A Momma & Her Pen hopes you enjoy this special series.
By Glenn Nappa
My daughter approached me not too long ago and asked me if I’d like to participate in her blog (not sure I even spelled it correctly, let alone know what it means!). Great thing my daughter is an incredible writer and editor. Heaven knows I’ll need her help! But how could I refuse her? No way! In all honesty, I can’t refuse any of my kids, or grandkids for that matter. They are my life, passion, what I live for (and, of course, my beautiful wife, too).
I just finished reading her most current blog (there’s that word again!), “The Things We Need The Most,” and I have to say how beautifully written and how right on she is. This leads into a story I’d like to share with you, which I heard from a friend of mine. It’s such a beautiful story and fits right in with the things—or thing—we need most. It’s called …
I Rescued A Human Today
Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor peering apprehensively into the kennels. I felt her need instantly and knew I had to help her. I wagged my tail, but not too exuberantly, so she wouldn’t be afraid.
As she stopped at my kennel, I blocked her view from a little accident I had in the back of my cage. I didn’t want her to know that I hadn’t been walked today. Sometimes the shelter keepers get too busy and I didn’t want her to think poorly of them.
As she read my kennel card, I hoped that she wouldn’t feel sad about my past. I only have the future to look forward to and want to make a difference in someone’s life. She got down on her knees and made little kissy sounds at me. I shoved my shoulder and side of my head up against the bars to comfort her. Gentle fingertips caressed my neck; I could sense that she was desperate for companionship.
A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure her that all would be well. Soon my kennel door opened, and her smile was so bright that I instantly jumped into her arms. I would promise to keep her safe. I would promise to always be by her side. I would promise to do everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her eyes.
I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor. So many more are out there who haven’t walked the corridors … so many more to be saved and loved. At least I was able to save one. I rescued a human today!
How beautiful! They give their all without any expectations of return. They give this one little word unconditionally. If only we humans could do the same. As a deacon, I pray about this often …
Lord, why at times is it so hard to give? We do such a great job talking about it, but we so often do a poor job of expressing it. It’s what each of us need, want, and deserve. We’re to serve one another through this word; for the whole law is fulfilled through this one word and it’s what we’re called to share with one another.
Our Lord always talks about this one powerful, life-changing little word, which he gives unconditionally to each one of us. This word speaks volumes, it’s universal. It’s expressed in so many ways, it transcends everything! It’s a word that encompasses all that we are, who we are, and why we are; one word on how we’re to live our lives every day. We’re all created out of this little word. The Bible mentions it so many times you lose count, and yet at times we still don’t get it. Such a remarkably simple word—only four letters long—and yet it bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things. It never fails.
Do you know the word that I’m talking about? It’s all around us, it’s contagious. Can you feel it?
This little word takes place through the cross and Jesus felt so strongly about it that he was willing to lay down his life for all of us. Not only can it save one human being, but it can save all of humanity. Jesus has given this one word as a commandment to not only his disciples but to all of us. And we’re to share it with all our brothers and sisters of the world. He’s appointed us to go and bear this fruit that’ll always remain. It’s spiritual, passionate, thoughtful, caring, serious, lighthearted, and, yes, even destructive when it’s used for selfish reasons, when we say this word not out of honesty but for gain. When we show lack of mercy and compassion, when we turn our backs on others in need, and when we distance ourselves from everyone. Even as sinners this word is the promise of salvation. It’s the benevolent affection of a father for his children. It’s a gift given freely to us from God. It’s an expression that brings new life into the world. It can change the hearts of even the most ruthless people, and it can also bring people together. It can even mend a broken heart.
Do you know the word that I’m talking about? It’s all around us, it’s contagious. Can you feel it?
This one word is the main building block of all relationships. It’s a choice that we can all make of our own free will, an affectionate feeling of concern for the well-being of others. We express this not only through our words but our actions as well. When we feed the hungry, clothe the naked, care for the sick, welcome a stranger. If we abide in this can we do no less than to share it between one another? Without this and charity, nothing has value. So, let’s go rescue a fellow human being.
Brothers and sisters, this is what we’re all called to give. And one of the most amazing things about it is that it’s free. It’s so easy to give, so feel free to pass it on. Many of us may not be preachers but we can all be reachers, so go and reach out to someone. Show them that you care. Give them a warm embrace, a word of encouragement. Let them know that they’re special!
Jesus, please fill me with this that I may share it with others unconditionally as you do. The kind that changes people forever, the kind that breaks down barriers and overcomes all fear, the kind that gives without ever counting the cost. God made all of us in his own image and this word expresses that image in every way. So, brothers and sisters if we haven’t already, let’s start today: Spread the word.
Do you know the word that I’m talking about? It’s all around us, it’s contagious. Can you feel it?
My intention was not to preach but I couldn’t help myself. Brothers and sisters, what’s it going to take for us to get it? As my daughter so eloquently said, this can be such a beautiful world. We must come together (including me) because ALL lives matter!
I’m privileged and honored to be a chaplain at a local hospital. I say this in all humility. I’m so humbled because, believe me, I see such ministry and miracles happen each and every day and what they do is totally out of love. Why? Because every person matters and is important. We all deserve respect and dignity. We all have a purpose in life. Some of us are still searching, but that’s OK. Believe me, I’m far from perfect and on no pedestal. I look at myself every day in the mirror and say, “It’s not about you; no ego today.” I probably fail at it every day.
Let’s not take things for granted. I’m guilty big time. Life is so short and just flies by. It’s one breath, one moment, one day at a time. Every day we get is a gift; there are no guarantees. Live each day to the fullest. Make it your best day every day. Maybe we can all start today. Let someone know they’re loved and that they matter. Hug your spouse, children, grandchildren, parents, grandparents, friends, your neighbor, acknowledge a stranger. Can you say, “I love you?”
I’d like to end this post with a final prayer:
Dear Lord, thank you for today
If I can see something beautiful
If I can learn something new
If I can give love where it’s needed
If I can take love when it’s offered
Then I haven’t wasted a day in my life
Blessings to all!
About The Author:
Glenn Nappa completed his deaconate program in May 2014 and has since served as a deacon at various Roman Catholic churches around Syracuse, NY. Currently, he is a chaplain at a hospital in Syracuse, where he spends his days using spirituality to guide and soothe patients (trauma, intensive care, psychiatric) and staff through their trials and tribulations (in one-on-one and group sessions). He lives in Liverpool (a suburb outside the city) with his lovely wife, Marcia.
If you’re interested in submitting your own narrative or in recommending/promoting a friend, please email me at amommaspen@gmail.com. I am beyond excited to work with all of you on this collaboration project! Happy writing!