Brad Reynolds December 11, 2006

Gaudete

Because Christmas is almost here
Because dancing fits so well with music
Because inside baby clothes are miracles.
Gaudete
Because some people love you
Because of chocolate
Because pain does not last forever
Because Santa Claus is coming.
Gaudete
Because of laughter
Because there really are angels
Because your fingers fit your hands
Because forgiveness is yours for the asking
Because of children
Because of parents.
Gaudete
Because the blind see.
And the lame walk.
Gaudete
Because lepers are clean
And the deaf hear.
Gaudete
Because the dead will live again
And there is good news for the poor.
Gaudete
Because of Christmas
Because of Jesus
You rejoice.
 

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14 years 1 month ago
Thank you for the Christmas gift from America by Brad Reynolds, SJ. Gaudete is a beautiful gift to all of us, a reminder, a focusing lens. For me there was something transforming about the poem and the photo together. I came home from work this evening and found myself transfixed again by the photograph. What an absolutely perfect image of the goodness of life. Gaudete indeed!

14 years 1 month ago
Thank you for the Christmas gift from America by Brad Reynolds, SJ. Gaudete is a beautiful gift to all of us, a reminder, a focusing lens. For me there was something transforming about the poem and the photo together. I came home from work this evening and found myself transfixed again by the photograph. What an absolutely perfect image of the goodness of life. Gaudete indeed!

11 years 7 months ago
My name is Gaudete and I am facing hard times. These words bring tears to my eyes and hope to my heart. Thank you.

This article also appeared in print, under the headline “Gaudete,” in the December 11, 2006, issue.

Brad Reynolds

Brad Reynolds, S.J., a photographer and artist in residence at Gonzaga University, Spokane, Wash., is also the author of several mystery novels.

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