Assisi, home of St. Francis, has become my favorite spot in bella Italia. Here is his Christmas message for all of you, I mici amici:
The result of stepping out in faith is realizing a life well lived. When all is said and done, the adventure, the joys, happiness, beauty of the earth…
These will stay with your soul forever.
Yes, every life is touched by heartache and sorrow. They serve to make the time of joy even sweeter. You cannot know great joy without experiencing great sadness.
Don’t be discouraged. When things seem so grim, remember every adversity you made it through to a desirable outcome.
Brighten the world whenever you can. Each beam of light then doubles, triples, and before long, the whole world is aglow. Isn’t it worth the effort?
I am here for you always,
Francis
Peace and bene,
Joanna
