Hidden Saints in Our Midst

For the last 3 years, I worked supporting cancer patients. It was both an honor and a privilege to be in their presence. 

I witnessed a great deal of sanctity in this particular group of people--many of you who work with those sick and suffering can testify to this. They are truly the wounded Christ on earth. 

This experience also forced me to face and reflect on my own prejudices. It struck me one day as I observed a woman whom I'll call "Joan" come to our center for treatment.

First impression: Joan was not a conventional looking older lady. Like many who received chemo, she had lost her hair, but as it grew back, instead of a feminine pixie hair style, she intentionally grew a spikey crew cut. And then dyed it canary yellow. 

She had tattoos all over her--arms, shoulders, and I think in other places. She wore leather and chains, and walked with a strut. 

Joan was one tough looking customer! 

One day, I happened to be near the front desk as I saw her walk in through the doors. And as she did, she made the Sign of the Cross. 

I was both surprised and moved by this gesture. I asked my staff if they had seen her do that, and they told me she blessed herself like that every day as she walked in for her treatment. As if she was walking into a church. As if she was preparing for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass.

I wanted to know even more about this enigma Joan. As with most  cancer patients, conversations may begin on lighter subjects, but often grow into more profound, intimate topics as they continue with their treatment. They become reflective and open, and their guards are down. They often reach their truest, most authentic selves--no pretense, no facade. 

Thomas Merton said, "For me to be a saint means to be myself. Therefore the problem of sanctity and salvation is in fact the problem of finding out who I am and of discovering my true self.”

And so, I learned that Joan, this tough looking, leather-clad person, had a vast interior life. She spoke to me so beautifully about the Blessed Mother, how Mary was accompanying her through this cancer journey, how the Rosary was her daily consolation and how she was growing each day in her Catholic faith. She told me she experienced the heart of  "divine mercy" every day. Some of her expressions on faith were like poetry. 

Did I learn much from Joan! And a little about myself in the process. We so often fall back on our old prejudices, and judge others by their outward appearances. And yet, we have these walking treasures, these hidden saintsin our midst.  

Our Holy Father consistently speaks of creating a Church of mercy and of inclusion. 

Let us begin.

Here are 2 people from recent times who, if we base our judgment on their pasts, would at first not seem to be likely candidates for sainthood. They are the perfect examples of the phrase, "Every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future." 

Despite all our imperfections, flaws, sinfulness and ability to royally goof up on a regular basis, it's a beautiful thought that we can STILL determine what our future will be, how we may serve Our Lord.  

Who are the hidden saints in your life?

With love and prayers,

Simple Soul