It is easy to love the people far away. It is not always easy to love those close to us. It is easier to give a cup of rice to relieve hunger than to relieve the loneliness and pain of someone unloved in our own home. Bring love into your home for this is where our love for each other must start. -St. (Mother) Teresa of Calcutta

For quite a while, I’ve been thinking, “Oh, I want to write a blog post about Fred.” The timing was never right or I discovered when I was about to begin that it was someone’s birthday or something else of this ilk. Then, I read this beautiful quote by Mother Teresa, who is a personal favorite. It made me think of Fred, because he’s the kind of man who makes every place he is just warmer, kinder, and full of smiles by his presence. He’s a superb example of the concept being proposed by one of the most amazing saints that exists in our church.

Fred is the husband of a lovely woman named Jamie and the uber supportive dad to two great kids named Maci and Gray. He’s crazy about them all, which to me is just a glorious thing to behold. Nothing beats a man who truly cherishes his wife and children. He’s sunny, joyful, friendly and articulate, and he’s pictured above with Pope Francis, ha?!. He’s a faith-filled and extremely likeable person who also happens to be my neighbor. Fred’s a parishioner at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, and a steady upstanding man of God. We need those strong men of faith now more than ever, so his example is inspiring!

Fred McClaine is just a special person and I wanted to give him a shout out today to point out his awesomeness in case no one else has told him today that he is outstanding! He’s a handsome family man with a beautiful soul. Compassionate and in love with the Lord, Fred is a funny, big-hearted man of character. Articulate, positive and affirming. That’s how I see him. He’s a person who really does leave others feeling more joyful, a blessing to those of us in his path, and I am LONG overdue to say so. Here’s to you, Fred! Merry Christmas to the McClaines!!

“Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.” St. (Mother) Teresa