Putting love where there’s none

I could never have believed that my husband could turn into a stranger. His behavior demonstrated such selfishness that he alienated all those around him. Actually, this hid a deep sense of inferiority on his part. However, it got to the point that I couldn’t even celebrate our two children’s successes without offending him. Yet when we first met, I had felt so supported by him! But now, I felt my world falling apart, and I was at a crisis point. Around this time, I got in touch with an old schoolmate who had entered the convent but later decided to leave. I went to see her and she shared her experience of loneliness, of disappointed idealism, of jealousy within the community, a community which existed for the best of humanitarian aims. As she spoke, I seemed to see a reflection of my own situation. We began to meet regularly and a phrase she quoted from St. John of the Cross enlightened me as to what I needed to do to try to save my family: “Where there is no love, put love, and you will find love.” I decided to try it. It wasn’t easy. But today things are different, both for me and for my friend.

(M.d.A., Albania)

Being there for others

Ten years ago, when life was becoming very difficult for us Christians, we asked ourselves whether we should really stay in our own country or not. Many had chosen to flee, and apparently, they had found safety, far from the sound of gunfire and fear. However, even if we couldn’t do much, we realize that our presence here has become a true mission. It’s not so much about giving witness to loyalty to one’s land, or keeping the faith, but rather, of being close to our people, as Pope Francis has described. We’re sure that this situation, difficult as it is, is offering a great life lesson to our own children.

(V.M., Syria)

Learning from the smallest

Kanna comes from a Christian family and goes to a nursery where the teacher and many other children belong to different religions. At the end of the year, the teacher greets each of the children, one by one. When she reached Kanna, she said, “Thank you because you’ve taught us about Jesus. When you speak about him, we can feel he’s close to you. You taught us the prayers you learned at home and they’re beautiful. This morning, I saw you when you gave the prize you had won to one of your friends. This gesture really moved me! I’m about to get married, but before I do, I want to be baptized. I’m preparing myself because I want to believe in Jesus like you do.”

(Z.J., Japan)

Compiled by Lorenzo Russo

(translated from “Il Vangelo del Giorno,” Città Nuova, year VII, n. 4, July-August 2021)