Famine in Somalia

Somalis flood Kenya Refugee Camp

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As most people know, I spent the past 10 months working with a refugee resettlement agency in MN. I worked mostly with Somali refugees. Somalia, a country that has been involved in a civil war for 20 years, is also experiencing a horrific famine and drought. The UN declared a famine in the Southern Somali regions of Bakool and Lower Shabelle. Ten months ago, I would not have recognized the names of these regions. Ten months ago, I knew little about Somalia. Now, these regions represent the homes of the people with whom I worked.

We are prophets of a future not of our own*

Today we honor Archbishop Oscar Romero who was martyred 31 years ago. Oscar Romero was from El Salvador. He, reluctantly, became an advocate for the poor in El Salvador.

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Growing up, Romero was commonly mentioned in family discussions. I knew who he was, that he was killed while celebrating Mass, and the causes he championed before I could properly recite a rosary. That's saying a lot for this Catholic kid. He was always one of those important figures in my life. While other kids in CCD class with me knew about Mary, Jesus, and the common saints, I knew about Oscar Romero and could spout out information about his life in rapid succession. Every Sunday, my church included his name when we invoked the Saints of the Americas. On some level, I knew that not everyone knew about him, but I didn't quite comprehend that all Catholic kids didn't grow up talking about him around the dinner table.

Why do I talk about this? In many social justice oriented Catholic groups, Oscar Romero is a figure head - the hero used to light the fire under a groups' collective rear ends. Everyone knows about him; many people say that they fight for social justice because they are inspired by him; and still other groups repeat his words. But, do people really know about him. Why did Oscar Romero do what he did? How can he inspire us to advocate for social justice, to serve the underprivileged? How can he be more than just a name or just a figure head?

Truth be told, I don't have answers for this. I've been in discussions with numerous people about this over the past couple years. We always toss around ideas or some actions that might last a few weeks, but never anything concrete. One thing I've become aware of this year is that I don't want to be someone who can only talk the walk.

*often attributed to Archbishop Oscar Romero, but actually written by Bishop Ken Untener

...Peace is the generous, tranquil contribution of all to the good of all. Peace is dynamism. Peace is generosity....

Heart like a lion

"It's time. Heart of a lion. I will give my all-heart, mind,& spirit today. This is what it's about! All the way until the end! No regrets."

-Apolo Anton Ohno (via his Twitter)

(photo credit: http://www.britannica.com)

I've been addicted to the Olympics this year. It's the first time that I've really been interested in the Winter Olympics. Usually, I'll watch speed skating, figure skating, and a few other events. Not this year. I've watched nearly everything.

One of my favorite things about the Olympics is watching all the countries together. Everyone marches out during the opening ceremonies. It's just amazing to watch. Even with all the problems in the world, it's a time when I think that all is right. There are wars going on, devastating earthquakes, etc., but while I watch the countries parade out I forget those things. I like watching the winners sing their country's national anthems. (Side note: I just wish the US athletes would sing).

Like so many others, I love Apolo Ohno. He's a fantastic skater, but more importantly, I think he's a great person. I don't think he should have been DQ'd in the 500, but things happen and he was definitely able to bounce back for the relay.

But, it's back to regular scheduled programs. I'll wait for the summer olympics.