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Have you ever been intrigued by the famous detective stories of Sherlock Holmes, or by the fictional Belgian detective Hercule Poirot or by Columbo? Trying to unravel the mystery gets the imagination going, but the "snag" is always the surprising outcome. The same goes for a written article—reading only one side of the page does not give satisfaction, to get the full picture of the story both sides have to be read. To read between the lines, to see beyond the pictures that are projected on our small or large screens helps us to enter into the reality of the events and people alike. How many times we have been struck before pictures and stories of tragedies, earthquakes, devastating fires, but once these are gone from our screens, we forget… How many times we have heard that the stoic attitude of the Japanese people has helped them overcome the tsunami? Yet, how many are experiencing a profound distress. Sr. Louisa who lived twenty years in Japan will speak to us about their reality. And closer to home, what have been the reactions upon seeing the inundations of the banks of the Richelieu River? Thousands of volunteers were touched and gave a helping hand: cleaning up the debris, repairing homes and cellars, such actions supported and gave joy to the disaster victims. What do we say about the approximate nine thousand heroes who took up the Shaved Head Challenge Leucan 2011 (Leucan—an association whose mission is to help cancer stricken children and their families believe in a brighter future). Bravo to everyone! These are actions that speak louder than words. The volunteers give from the heart. These generous individuals not only read between the lines but with insight see beyond the faces that appear on our screens. To be one with all is the adage of all missionaries who uproot themselves to enter into another culture. Such an experience is currently being lived by Marie-Hélène, Stephan and their three young daughters in Bolivia. The evangelical calling can be heard in many different ways, but the important thing is to respond. Being one with all concerns everybody, it's an ambitious project, at times disturbing, but, oh… how rewarding! Generous hearts have the joy of experiencing this enriching reality. Soon, Christmas will present us the Nativity scene. Our eyes of faith will be called to pierce through the image of the little Child in the manger to see the greater mystery—that of the Incarnation. Out of love, the Son of God became one of us, He embraced our human condition. Let us allow Him to guide us by His Love which goes beyond the stories and pictures on our screens. My best wishes are sent to each one of you—may you have a Blessed Christmas and a Holy New Year.
Editorial October - November - December 2011 Return to Contents Return to Précurseur Index French Editorial |