Ash Wednesday

Good morning. “Remember, man you are dust and to dust you shall return.” This verse which is an extrapolation of Genesis 3:19 serves to remind us today to be humble in all that we do. That in all that we do, we do for God and what we do for others is that God may be glorified. The ashes we receive in the sign of a cross on our foreheads today remind us of the need for humility, the virtue that opens the door to salvation. In today’s Gospel Jesus reminds us to be humble, that we are not to be seen praying “pray to your Father in secret” or being charitable “when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right is doing” or to be seen fasting “when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you may not appear to be fasting” (Mt 6:1-6, 16-18). One of the most important lessons to teach our children is the virtue of humility, to be aware that God is the source of whatever gifts they may possess. It is important that our children grow to appreciate the need for taking pleasure in whatever talents or gifts they may have but to always remember “but for the grace of God.” Humility is a difficult concept for children to understand as they are naturally inclined towards being boastful. They can best learn from our example. As parents we should seize opportunities to provide examples of humility and provide opportunities to share in providing service to those less fortunate. Likewise the use of stories is a very useful way for children to learn about the importance of being humble. Stories such as Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan or the Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupery are wonderful ways of helping to instill in our children the importance of humility in their lives. Charlotte's Web by E. B. White was always one of our children’s favorites. In fact, it still is. Participation in team or group activities teaches the importance of accepting the contribution of others and learning to lose gracefully. Sometimes the best way to learn something is when we don’t realize a lesson is being taught. What lesson might our children learn from us today? Make a great day!