Travels, tales, experience, and energy

Since I have been here the most enjoyable thing for me has been meal times. Not only due to the great food I've experienced (and I have) but because of the Priests I live/work with. I have been regaled with tales of their ministry, their habits, their lives, and their loves. Better still is when they have guests, these guys have lived and I'd like to share with you a little story I heard tonight.

Jack O'Neill is a Priest who was once Chaplain at San Quentin State Penitentiary (the only death row in California and incidentally the largest in the US), served in the Navy as Chaplain (actually served, not just as Chaplain but in combat), and is now retiring from the PRIESTHOOD. He has such a colourful history and I really enjoyed our conversations over dinner this evening. Especially the story of a Mexican in-mate at "San Q" who upon entering the prison was guarded by 2 guards because he was carrying a knife. Jack spoke with him and it turned out to be a culinary knife for peeling Garlic. The powers that be didn't care to ask the question. So, Jack did his homework and went to the Prison Admin to tell them that this harmless (and VERY old) prisoner was just that and if they removed the guards they would save $750, 000!

The guards were removed.

I guess the moral of the story is: if it seems like you won't be heard or listened to (like Jack) the only way to know if you will or not is to TRY. It's all anyone can ask of you. And just think; you might make a difference. We can ALL make a difference!