This is a wonderful time of the year, when so many have holiday time from work, families get together, and a "kinder, gentler," not to mention slower, time prevails. At the same time, it can be a lonely time for some.

Today for lunch, we invited sr. Benedito over to spend the day with us. He's a 72-year-old widower, with no close family. He often feels lonely and has lived most of his life over the past ten years in boarding houses.

Leila played the flute for him, and he and I -- mostly he -- talked the hours away. He is a simple person, a manual laborer still at it, when he can find work. But he is quick on the smile, often finds a good thought in every situation, and enjoys being with God's people. So we enjoyed the day with him.

Our days will be richer, our lives less selfish, our hours more joyful, when we share with those in need. The needs are more often spiritual, emotional, and relational than physical. And since today is considered the International Day of Peace, those individual efforts toward bringing the peace of God and the communion of the Spirit are what will make the difference.

Shall we make this the year when we make not only the holidays, but every day, a kinder, gentler, slower day, in order to notice our neighbor who needs a good listener, a friend at one's side, a word of encouragement, a pointer to the joys of God's love?

Perhaps you need to find it first yourself. It is close within your grasp. Then, you and I may offer what we have found to others in need as well.

May God's blessing be upon you every day of this new year.