Gospel of Luke, chapter 17:18

A man was walking along the East River promenade in New York City in a very dejected state of mind. Actually, he was more than dejected – he was suicidal, and was seriously contemplating climbing over the railing that separated the promenade from the river and throwing himself in. Life felt empty, meaningless, hollow. He felt that the writing he had devoted himself to for decades had no real value, and didn’t amount to much. What had he really accomplished in life?

As he stood staring at the dark, swirling water, trying to summon up the courage to do the deed, an excited voice interrupted his thoughts. “Excuse me,” said a young woman, “I’m sorry to impose upon your privacy, but aren’t you Christopher D’Antonio, the writer?” He nodded indifferently. “I hope you don’t mind my approaching you, but I just had to tell you what a difference your books have made in my life! They have helped me to an incredible degree, and I just wanted to thank you.”

“No, my dear, it is I who have to thank you!” D’Antonio said as he wheeled around, turned away from the East River and headed back home.

Christopher D’Antonio

Comment:
It doesn’t cost much to express gratitude. The effect of a simple good word or a compliment can go a long way; longer than we may ever know. Sometimes, it can even save a life! The Lord appreciated the gratitude of the one leper who returned to say, thanks! Don’t be slow in expressing your gratitude to one another.

Fr. Hugh Duffy

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