Mother Teresa.

Finally watched "The Letters". It's a movie about the life and times of Mother Teresa. And I thank the good friend that recommended it. Now, I know what gave rise to one of her famous quotes, "I'm just a pencil in the hands of God".

 

Mother Teresa dedicated her life to pure, selfless service to humanity and to the glory of God. In view of the many gifts (exotic cars, limousines, millions of Dollars etc) presented to her by presidents, monarchies, including the Queen of England, the nun could have been one of the richest women in the world. But she made a vow of chastity and poverty. All those gifts were summarily handed over to charities. She simply refused to serve God and Mammon at the same time.

 

The good nun actually left a comfortable environment to go live with the poorest of  India's  "untouchables". And even while receiving a Nobel Prize, she was the most poorly-dressed recipient. For Mother Teresa, there was no need for the latest in fashions, mansions, a fleet of cars, private jets and other vanities. May her soul continue to rest in peace.

Changing the World, one Home at a Time.

Charities are supposed to begin at home. How I wish all those who are trying to "change the world" either in the political or religious realm, would start from their immediate environments.

 

They need to build and nurture honest, unselfish and positive lifestyles. Afterwards, they can show the whole world how such noble, moral virtues have produced joy, peace and a sense of contentment in their respective homes.

These are the exemplary and vindicating factors that will always precede them in the process of convincing their audiences. Even the Yoruba say, "The person who wishes to give one a gift of clothes will first have to be seen for what he or she wears."