We often say happy holidays. The word “holiday” implies a vacation. In fact, we are not celebrating time off, but holy days for many people. Why do we not simply say happy holy days? Commercialization has replaced the true meaning of the holy days of Christmas and Hanukkah. The gift of a God has been replaced by the gift of goods. Happiness is fleeting. The flesh constantly wants more to be happy. If I buy more or indulge more in pleasure I will be happy. Happiness is therefore contingent upon fueling and refueling fleshly desires. Holiness, however, is not about satisfying the flesh but about satisfying our spirit. The spirit that leads to greater peace and love. We can find no true comfort nor rest without it. May we fuel our spirits through prayer and acts of charity this holy season, remember our friends and family, but also those less fortunate than us. Have faith in the coming year and say thanks for all the countless blessings and miracles you and I have enjoyed this year.
When we help the homeless we help ourselves, our country, and our community. The strong and fortunate have a responsibility to help the weak and poor. Isn’t that what true power is? When we think about how we can utilize our talents to help the oppressed we are reminded of our obligations to one another.
Isaiah 58:7: Is it not to share your bread with the hungry and bring the homeless poor into your house; when you see the naked, to cover him, and not to hide yourself from your own flesh?
Here is a business proposal I created in my spare time to help Japan’s urban homeless. I wanted to find a way to address a social issue while utilizing the talent of Japan’s seniors. I make no money off of this business idea. I simply wanted to share with others so that even one homeless person can get off the streets. That is reward in and of itself. This was my attempt to create a business solution to address a social problem. Just trying to play my part as I can’t physically be in Japan to implement this. Check the link below to read the proposal.
“In this book the reader is offered the unique opportunity to explore not only the mind but also the heart of a Japanese-American diplomat who “dares” to be proud of his dual heritage. In an age where “diversity” is touted as an important value to uphold, reality does not always live up to the struggles and aspirations of men and women whose very DNA is multicultural and multilingual. Ken Reiman’s passionately told and deeply personal story will inspire all those for whom “duality” is an integral part of who they are, not only as citizens but also as human beings. Society can only benefit from heeding his call to celebrate and utilize such rich human experiences for the good of others—and ultimately, for the creation of a better world—together.”
M. Antoni J. Ucerler, S.J., D.Phil.
Associate Professor of East Asian Studies &
Director, Ricci Institute for Chinese-Western Cultural History
University of San Francisco
Not everyone knows that the U.S. purchased the U.S. Virgin Islands from Denmark in 1917 for $25 million. This U.S. Caribbean paradise consists of St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix, Water Island, and more. The United States Virgin Islands has something for everyone. Go visit! A great time to enjoy the summer sun, beaches, snorkeling, and so much fun!
– Franklin Delano Roosevelt