Inner Peace

I would like to share with you a story I recently read.

Today in the supermarket I came across a grandfather and grandson walking in front of me. The grandson was screaming all the time and demanding something .
The grandfather stopped and said: "Calm down, Misha, you just need to calm down".

Even when the boy fell and started hitting the floor with his feet and hands, the grandfather still remained completely composed and just said: "Calm down, Misha. We will buy groceries and go home. That's all we need to do."

Finally, at the checkout, when the grandfather and grandson lined up, the child grabbed a kinder egg and crushed it. Grandpa then said again, "Calm down Misha, we'll be home soon," and turning to the cashier, he continued, "Don't worry, I'm sorry, we'll pay for this kinder egg."

After they came out, I couldn’t resist and continued after them. I caught up with them in the parking lot and said, turning to the man: "Just so you know, I'm delighted with how you calmed Misha down today, I think it was great.."

Grandpa smiled sadly and said, "The boy's name is Alexander," and added, "I'm Misha”.

Often we are put into situations we cannot control. Here the grandfather did everything he could to calm the boy. He was not successful. So instead of focusing on what was going wrong around him, he focused on keeping himself calm. In doing so he was able to do what he needed to do.

When we often find ourselves in similar situations. Perhaps there is a problem with a child acting up, or maybe a financial or health problem. Maybe we become frustrated with not being able to help enough. For me I am troubled by the situation with the homeless.

When that happens, turn inward and rely on the peace of Christ in yourself. This will help you get through the day. Peace does not mean to be in a place where there is no noise, trouble or hard work. It means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in your heart.

Rely on the grace you received when you last received the Eucharist. Remember the words at the end of Mass; “Go in peace, glorifying the Lord by your life”.

Deacon John Girolami
Spiritual Advisor
Ontario Regional Council