Where the Rubber Hits the Road

Somewhere, Fr. Michael ('Doc') Ryan must be celebrating! He was my seminary professor whose expertise was in Catholic social teaching and Thomistic philosophy. He was (is?) a quirky little fellow but his devotion to the Church and the priesthood was second to none. I pray that this is a good day for him, no matter where he is today. 120th Anniversary Marked for Labor Encyclical 'Rerum Novarum' | Daily News | NCRegister.com

Dear Barbara, My apologies for taking so long to post your message to me. I've been ill and away from my computer. As you can see, I have now posted it below. You'll also no doubt will note that I have removed any personal or geographic identifiers so as to preserve and present the essence of your argument without calumniating other institutions or persons.  The tenor of your message and that of the Youtube video prove that you are a mother whose heart has been broken - and to a very significant degree found life itself rendered heavy and burdensome by the cross that has been laid upon your shoulders - and you need, desire, want and demand that someone hear and acknowledge the truth and pain of your experience. I have heard your song sung by mothers of all ages, faiths (or not) and stations in life before and you offer a powerful counterpoint to those who do not want to believe that pain and grief is a reality in everyone's life. I thank you for sharing your message a...