It was many years ago, in the days of fogs and smog (the late 1950’s and 60’s!). The whole city of Cork was fog-bound. I was leaving the warmth and cheer of the pre-Christmas party only to discover that I, literally, couldn’t see my hand in front of my face in the fog. The house in which I lived was less than a mile away, but there was no way I could safely find my way home. Footpaths, lamp-posts, street corners were all heavily enveloped, almost invisible in the fog. I was beginning to get desperate. After carefully negotiating a few streets I wasn’t sure I could not even find my way back to the party venue.

Then I heard heavy footsteps approach from behind. I stood still and listened, not sure what to do.  Out of the dense fog came a man, walking quite confidently. I coughed to let him know I was there. I wasn’t sure if even that was a wise thing to do. The man stopped, slightly out of view, coughed and bade me goodnight in a deep voice. It was a few seconds before I realised that the person was blind and oblivious of the fog.

I explained my name and plight to him and where I lived, and the man said:
Don’t worry Jack, I’m Philip and I know your street well.  I’ll guide you home safely! ‘
He gently took me in hand and got me home in jig time. I noticed he was smiling as he went on his way.  I like to think I made his day that day. He certainly made mine and left me thinking.

Lord, this Advent, open my mind and heart to see the hidden qualities in other people.
Come Lord Jesus

…Jack Mc Ardle, That’s the Gospel Truth, www. columba.ie