UNFORGETTABLE

There’s a beautiful old melody, made famous by Nat King Cole, which begins, “It was fascination I know…” sharing the love story of an encounter that made a lasting impression. Perhaps, each of us has met someone who has touched us in a most special way…someone unforgettable, who has helped to shape our outlook and our life. Perhaps, today is an invitation to remember that person, savor the encounter, and give thanks for this blessing.

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Lord’s presentation. We read in the Lucan Gospel about Simeon who waited a life-time for this holy encounter, and upon realizing this life-long goal, is most grateful for the blessing he has received, and is ready for the next phase of life.

Christ continues to be “presented” to us. We don’t need to ask when? Where? We know…in each and every moment of life…in everyone we meet…in ourselves. What will it take for us to realize our dream and not only believe He is here, but of embracing this holy encounter, and to move on with the next phase of our journey…to affirm His presence (and the impact He has had on our life)...and to make Him present by how we treat one another…by how we treat ourselves?

Of course, this is nothing new. We've heard it countless times...but we forget. A dear friend of mine, Fr. Gabriel, a Franciscan Friar who died a couple years ago at 95, loved to tell jokes. But he would always forget the punch-line, and would always say the same thing, "My memory is good. It's just short." So, too, is ours. Perhaps, more than our words and actions today, what we most need to do is take a moment to reflect on our life, and when we have experienced the Holy Mystery...and let that inspire our life...to make it truly UNFORGETTABLE.