HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY BUDDY CHRIS

Gandhi said that “Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.”

Today a dear friend and a great inspiration to me turns 28. His name is Chris Hornby! I met Chris when his family moved to our church over 10 years ago. He was an excited teenager then. Today he is a great adult who proudly does what he can to contribute to this world. What was clear from the time I met Chris was his unbelievable determination to live and love and overcome any challenges that might come his way.

Chris has become an important part of the life of St. Mark’s by-the-Lake where he is loved by all. I know that many of the people of St. Mark’s have been inspired by Chris’s zeal for life and his ability to overcome all obstacles to be such a fine young man.

Chris has an indomitable will. He doggedly takes on life and all the challenges that it offers. Anyone who meets Chris is better for knowing him. He quickly makes friends because he is a kind soul with a generous spirit. When I need some inspiration – Chris is quick to offer it. Chris as often visited the nursing home or hospital with me after Wednesday church. Those who had opportunity to see Chris on those visits are always grateful that he has come with me. According to Virginia Wolfe, “One of the signs of passing youth is the birth of a sense of fellowship with other human beings as we take our place among them.” I am proud to have watched while Chris has taken on that sense of being a part of the community. In fact he rarely misses an opportunity to ask about people ate the church, especially if he knows that someone has been facing illness or any other trial.

Chris, you are a wonderful witness to love and to hope and I am proud to call you a friend and I am so fortunate to be your priest. I pray you have a wonderful birthday and a great long weekend in celebration of your big day. We all love you. Happy Birthday!

You can wish Chris a HAPPY BIRTHDAY  by emailing him at wheels_82@sympatico.ca OR Post a note here or send it along to me and I’ll post it for you.