Fragility and Dependence

06-01-2025Pastor's CornerFr. Bob Deehan

We’re fragile, vulnerable people who have a knack for making life look easy. It’s when we’re very young, very old, disabled or we get sick that it becomes difficult to project an image of self-reliance and complete independence. Yet, in reality, we’re all dependent, all subject to weakness when we face our limitations and have to acknowledge that we’re not ultimately in charge, that we’re not perfect. This realization is humbling and yet very healthy for us as Christians. Compassion springs from such awareness; it also engenders a sharpened sensitivity to the needs of others.

Lately, I’ve become more aware of my own and others’ fragility and dependence. Whether it’s contending with issues related to the aging process, coming to terms with our “less than perfect” circumstances, or realizing how much we really need help and support, we grow in understanding of our dependence on God and on the people God has placed in our lives. I think of people who are grieving the loss of a loved one, people who have been struggling with mental illness or with a serious life-threatening condition. Others are trying to deal with devastating circumstances that have resulted from the rupture of a relationship, financial disaster, or other life-changing difficulties.

Still, I witness here in our community great caring and outreach to the vulnerable and needy in our midst. It’s the hidden, less obvious, yet real fragility among those trying to put on a good face that we want to be especially sensitive to - our relative, neighbor, or friend who may need our special solicitousness, but won’t ask for help, yet would welcome it if offered. In our very busy lives, may God help us to be in tune with the pain and struggle of these folks, especially those close to home. If you’ve “been there already,” you know the signs and you know just what to do.