As I walked down the busy sidewalk, knowing I was late for Mass, my
eye fell upon one of those unfortunate, homeless vagabonds that
are found in every city these days.

Some people turned to stare. Others quickly looked away as if the
sight would somehow contaminate them.

Recalling my old pastor, Father Mike, who always admonished me to 'care
for the sick, feed the hungry and clothe the naked,' I was moved
by some powerful inner urge to reach out to this unfortunate
person.

Wearing what can only be described as rags, carrying her very worldly
possessions in two plastic bags, my heart was touched by this
person's condition.

Yes, where some people saw only rags, I saw a true, hidden
beauty.

A small voice inside my head called out, 'Reach out, reach out and
touch this person!'

So
I did.......

I
won't be at Mass this week.