Having no luck in connecting with groups in Rhode Island that need help, so for now, there is no trip planned over Easter Break.  It's a bit disappointing to WANT to help, but not being able to, however, this DOES leave me the opportunity to find someone or somewhere else to help.

I was perusing some BonaResponds videos today on YouTube this morning, and found a great production piece by Nate Cornman.  The song that accompanies the video of the Buffalo, NY cleanup is fantastically appropriate, and in my mind, should be the theme song to every BonaResponds trip henceforth.  If you'd like to check it out, click here.

Today is Good Friday, the day when Christians recall the passion and death of Jesus Christ on the Cross.  It is also a time to remember the sacrifice of another, Sister Karen Klimczak, who was murdered on Good Friday in 2006.  The anniversary of her passing is particularly poignant this year given our recent trip to Buffalo and our volunteer efforts at her parish. 

In the book I've been slowly working my way through, "The Lessons of St. Francis", the author makes a simple, yet remarkable point.  He reminds us that we should thank God both for both our blessings and our sorrows, for without one, we cannot appreciate the other.   Last evening, I was enjoying the summery weather with a friend on the front porch and we both remarked how truly blessed we both were to have a home, employment, our health, etc... 

How often it seems that we take what we've been given for granted.  How often it seems that we forget the needs of others, focusing greedily on our own desires and wants.  This Good Friday, let us remember those less fortunate than ourselves.  Whether with prayer, donation, or passing thought; consider the world beyond yourself, and give thanks...

-Nate