Joy, with peace, is the sister of charity. Serve the Lord with laughter. (St. Padre Pio)

Today’s beautiful birthday girl is Faith Ryder! Faith is a freshman at Guerin Catholic High School in Noblesville, Indiana. She’s the much loved daughter of Tom and Meg Ryder, and also she’s a joyful and fantastic young woman.

Since she was a very small girl attending St. Louis de Montfort grade school, Faith was unceasingly filled with the joy of the Lord. She always had a smile to share, and each time I came into contact with her, she greeted me with enthusiasm. Let’s be honest, there is very little that beats a sunny young lady who calls out, “Hi, Mrs. Thieme! I hope you are having the best day!”

Faith is bright and kind. She apparently is also quite a talented equestrian. I know so little about horses that I’m not even sure I’ve said that right…but I have seen this gal and her horses and just so many ribbons over the years. That’s kind of unique, and certainly a very cool, special talent. However, it’s not the reason I chose to honor her today!

What makes Faith stand out is that she seems to be aware, even at the tender age of 15, that she is the beloved child of the King! I’ve listened as she cantored at all-school mass, so filled with the love of Christ. Those same sparkle-filled eyes are the ones that never failed to say hello to a parent or a younger child in her path as I watched from a distance over the years. We adults who work in lunchrooms, at retreats, on the playground, or helping in the classroom….well…we get to know the children in the school. What makes Faith breathtakingly beautiful to me is the way she treats those around her– including carpool moms like yours truly. None of us gets it right 100% of the time, but this young lady has been caught red-handed in many acts of faithfulness and love towards others by this particular (relative stranger) over the years. We could all use a little scoop of that brand of kindness, Faith! I wish I’d said something sooner.

Faith, thank you for the simple yet jaw-droppingly gorgeous example of how we should treat others– with our smile on full display and our arms extended in love! For all the times you greeted me with your warm smile and quick hello over the years, I am grateful! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, SWEET GIRL! I hope your day has been half as spectacular as you!