God is always at your side | A message from Jay

A few years ago I was enjoying a day off, and no matter where I went my four year old son Ethan was one step behind me. If I sat down, he would sit on my lap. If I went outside he was by my side. I went to brush my teeth and he stood next to me holding his toothbrush. I was tired and just wanted a little down time but Ethan was everywhere!

During this time his mom, Shirley, gave him a candy snack. I thought that maybe this would distract him and I would be able to sit alone and watch the news. I was wrong! He took the package, poured it in his hand and with a big smile said “here dad.” I looked down at him and didn’t say a word. I took the candy and he said, "that's what best buds do. They share.” It made me realize that Ethan’s need to be around someone he loved was more important than my need for free time.

Ultimately in life we are all seeking to be loved and sometimes we don’t see it right in front of us. As Catholics we are blessed with a God who loves us. He is always by our side and only waits for us to welcome Him into our lives. There are times in our lives when we want to be left alone and yet by doing this we can miss a great gift.

Ethan was not going to give up following me and I am grateful for his persistence because he taught me a valuable lesson. When love is involved nothing else is as important. Don’t miss the opportunity to receive God’s love because you're too busy. I know he will never give up on you.


Jay Fadden