The two really limited—and hence most precious—gifts we have are: time and health. We do not know how much time we still have on this earth, and how long we will be healthy enough to do all the things we dream of doing or enjoying.
The real issue is not whether we will die (!) or even when, but what we will do with the limited time at our disposal.
November is the month when Catholics remember, revere and pray for the dead in a special way. Its real purpose, however, is to remind us of our mortality, and help us so live that, when we are gone, those who are still on the way can not only pray for us, but pray to us. I do that with my parents every night. I experience their wise and loving guidance.
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This issue of MAGNET focuses on this truth.
Rather than give exhortations to our readers, we prefer to learn from people who have faced death in ways we can all learn from—the deaths of dear ones and being on the point of death themselves.
You are going to meet:
- A young woman who learnt much from the serenity and strength of her older sister as she faced death from cancer;
- A young priest who almost died in a car accident, and now sees life in a new way;
- Another priest who saw his mother and his sister die, and was seriously sick twice;
- A sister’s reflection on death as another birth;
- A middle-aged woman who learnt much from the saints, and experienced deep peace, even joy, when faced with the probability of dying.
We then have a look what wise people can teach us about dying and living, and how we can move from panic to confidence and peace.
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The interview this month is with a formator who found deep joy in caring for leprosy patients, and whose mother taught her precious lessons, including how to face death.
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The Finance article shows us how to implement the new FCRA requirements.
The Law column explains the meaning and purpose of a law regarding essential services.
The Movies reviewed deal with life and death.
This month’s Candle in the Dark is a man who worked for the poor in Uttarkhand.
The Psychology article looks at the serious and wide-ranging impact of COVID-19.
A young woman professional tells us how she climbed from poverty to managerial level of corporate life.
In Friendly Feedback, a respected Catholic layman shares his impressions of religious today.
And, to help us create a more human and fraternal world, we look at the key points of Fratelli Tutti.
I learnt much from reading and re-reading these articles as I edited them. May your reading be equally rewarding!
Fr Joe Mannath SDB
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