I was listening to NPR radio about “super agers.” What was the secret for people who live to 80 ,100 and beyond ? Researchers who conducted studies on older adult populations reported it was not genes that made the difference but a person’s immune system that fight off cancer cells and other disease.
However, another important factor tor longevity was the attitude of the person. Simply put, a person with a happy disposition was a significant feature displayed in people who live longer. I like to believe that in spiritual terms this means a person is at peace with themselves and the world.
So what is this peace that our Lord speaks of in today's gospel? Well, he does tell us what it is not: “his peace is not the peace that the world gives.” The peace of this world is the peace supposedly provided by a wealth of material possessions. Material things will supposedly protect us from want and need. But we have to realize that everything in this world is fleeting and short-lived. What we have today could be gone tomorrow.
So what is his peace? Jesus peace is the “peace of acceptance,” the peace that allows us to appreciate every day to the fullest.
For example, today, when I awoke, I suddenly realized that this is the best day of my life, ever! There were times when I wondered if I would make it to today; but I did! And because I did, I'm going to celebrate! Today, I'm going to celebrate what an unbelievable life I've had so far: the accomplishments, the many blessings, and, yes, even the hardships, because they have made me stronger. I will go through this day with my head held high and a happy heart. I will marvel at God's seemingly simple gifts: the sun-yes the sun does shine sometimes in Buffalo but not today, the clouds, the trees, the flowers, the kitties, the birds. Today, none of these miraculous creations will escape my notice. Today, I will share my excitement for life with other people. I'll make someone smile. I'll go out of my way to perform an unexpected act of kindness for someone I don't even know. Today, I'll give a sincere compliment to those who have helped me care for our farm like…
Denny (Mr. Milk) and his two Mexican workers who mulched our trees; John (forester) who keeps our forest healthy and chained saw the trees that blocked the walking trails; Jeff (fire chief and mechanic) who repairs our farm tractor, gator and mower; Jamie (the fire chief’s son) who helped put up the Reviresco sign; Jason (electrician) who repaired the driveway lights; Brad (my Good Shephard builder) who repairs anything and shares his vendor list of master craftspeople; Ryan and Shaun (Brad’s sons) who dug the kitty litter pit and repaired the vinyl siding; Chad (window installer) checks the window screens and clips; Jack (garden center sales) who found our serviceberry replacement trees; Fidele, Cameron and Jack (landscapers) who planted the new trees along the driveway, Dr. Jose, Vice Provost Brockport College, who supports our vision for the farm to become an education center for students and faculty. I am humbled by these good people who are generous and helpful in my moments of need.
Today is the day I quit worrying about what I don't have and start being grateful for all the wonderful things God has already given me. I'll remember that to worry is just a waste of time because my faith in God and his Divine Plan ensures everything will be just fine.
Lord, I pray for all my Sonshine Friends that tonight, before we go to bed, we go outside and raise our eyes to the heavens. We will stand in awe at the beauty of the stars and the moon, and we will praise God for these magnificent treasures. As we lie our heads down on our pillow, we will thank the Almighty for the best day of our life. And we will sleep the sleep of a contented child, excited with expectation because we know tomorrow is going to be the best day of our life, ever!
