Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/104855
Poem in Memory of the Victims from December 14th blessing from God, but often today society, which is "dominated by the logic of efficiency and profit, doesn't welcome it as such." "I think we need a greater commitment, beginning with families and public institutions, to ensure the elderly can stay in their homes" and that they can pass on their wisdom to younger generations. "The quality of a society or civilization can be judged by how it treats the elderly," he said. Pope Benedict also insisted on recognition of the dignity and value of all human life, even when "it becomes fragile in the years of old age." "One who makes room for the elderly, makes room for life," the pope said. "One who welcomes the elderly, welcomes life." The pope told the residents that he knows the aged face difficulties, especially in countries where the global economic crisis has hit hard. And, he said, the elderly can be tempted to long for the past when they had more energy and were full of plans for the future. However, the pope said, "life is wonderful even at our age, despite the aches and pains and some limitations," he said. "At our age, we often have the experience of needing other's help, and this happens to the pope as well," he told the residents. Pope Benedict said they need to see the help they require as a gift of God, "because it is a grace to be supported and accompanied and to feel the affection of others." Copyright © 2012 Catholic News Service www.CatholicNews.com Reprinted with permission of CNS. Winter 2013 — www.ncsf.com Twas' 11 days before Christmas, around 9:38 when 20 beautiful children stormed through heaven's gate. Their smiles were contagious, their laughter filled the air. They could hardly believe all the beauty they saw there. They were filled with such joy, they didn't know what to say. They remembered nothing of what had happened earlier that day. "Where are we?" asked a little girl, as quiet as a mouse. "This is heaven," declared a small boy, "we're spending Christmas at God's house." When what to their wondering eyes did appear, but Jesus, their savior, the children gathered near. He looked at them and smiled, and they smiled just the same. Then He opened His arms and He called them by name. And in that moment was joy, that only heaven can bring those children all flew into the arms of their King and as they lingered in the warmth of His embrace, one small girl turned and looked at Jesus' face. And as if He could read all the questions she had He gently whispered to her, "I'll take care of mom and dad." Then He looked down on earth, the world far below He saw all of the hurt, the sorrow, and woe then He closed His eyes and He outstretched His hand, "Let My power and presence re-enter this land! May this country be delivered from the hands of fools. I'm taking back my nation. I'm taking back my schools!" Then He and the children stood up without a sound. "Come now my children, let me show you around." Excitement filled the space, some skipped and some ran. All displaying enthusiasm that only a small child can. And I heard Him proclaim as He walked out of sight, "In the midst of this darkness, I AM STILL THE LIGHT." 27