while some anecdotes cracked us up (for example, one guy ran up to hug a friend on the sidewalk, and moments later realized it was NOT his friend), and others had us murmuring in sympathy, there was only one comment that evoked mixed reactions.
dave, an adult leader in the group, shared a happy moment from mass that morning.
"i saw a guy sitting near the back of the congregation by himself. he was unshaven and just in general looked like he wasn't at a good place right then. he left before communion - i don't even know if he was catholic. but at the sign of peace, he asked me how i was doing. i said 'good. i'm doing good. how about you?'the girl next to me seemed almost shocked, like this was a morbid comment that shouldn't be discussed. i disagree.
he said 'well, i woke up this morning, so it's a good day.' "
what an excellent philosophy! i mean, if dave was right about the guy, i am impressed with not only his frankness with a stranger, but with his positivity.
i woke up this morning. i was, this morning, once again blessed with the miracle of opening my eyes and becoming conscious of the world around me. i am able to experience this day. and that alone makes it a good one.

