He Never Misses

Category: Change the World

  • Mad for…Colleen

    Oh God, you are my God- it is you I seek! For you my body yearns; for you my soul thirsts, in a land parched, lifeless, and without water. I look to you in the sanctuary to see your power and glory. For your love is better than life; my lips shall ever praise you! (Psalm 63: 1-4)

    • Colleen Ward, pictured here (a few years back) with her husband Marc and her 4 beautiful children.

    Day 49 of 365.

    If you take the time to notice the life being led by Colleen Ward, you’ll see a pattern of thanksgiving. She clearly believes, by her conspicuous witness, that our good and gracious God meant for us to not only thank Him for the graces He’s shared which enrich our lives, but also to thank others responsible for the small blessings that make our journey more pleasant.

    I met Colleen many years ago when I was a working girl in a corporate communications job. In my role, I counted heavily on the expertise and legwork of a local PR firm, Coles PR, where Colleen was employed at the time. I’ll be candid. As clients go, I was a first class, high maintenance PIA. I look back on that time and roll my eyes at my ridiculousness. Colleen, then as now, was the definition of class, impressive work ethic, and kindness. She was and is now– bright, talented, professional and flat out impressive. Guerin Catholic High School made an incredibly far-sighted and positive move when they snagged her for her communications role several years ago. I know very few people whose integrity matches that of Colleen. She’s a positive, sunny, character-filled gift from the Lord.

    Sometimes, folks need a meaningful expression of how they are valued. An expression of authentic gratitude to a world filled with folks who need to know that they matter is no small thing. I’ve seen Colleen express just these kinds of meaningful sentiments to and about lots of folks. The most impactful for me in terms of learning from her witness, though, are the public expressions of appreciation she continues to share about her family members.

    EVERY SINGLE TIME, it reminds me of the St. (Mother) Teresa quote, “If you want to change the world, go home and love your family.”

    Colleen is sunny, funny and self-deprecating. She lives her life in service to others, but spends herself quietly. Her lack of volume, however, should not be construed as a lack of strength. She is a fierce, capable woman of God. I notice and admire her most for loving her family lavishly, unconditionally, and maybe sometimes even foolishly– which is just the way God loves us. The way she praises the Lord with her life is inspiring. Today, on your special day, I want to turn the tables and thank you, Colleen, for being a powerful witness to me and many. If we all loved our families and those around us as you do, WOW would the world be transformed!

    TODAY, YOUR LIFE DEFINITELY DESERVES TO BE CELEBRATED!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, COLLEEN WARD!!!

  • Mad for…Christian

    The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy. –Martin Luther King, Jr.

    • Christian, on the left with my oldest son Nick, when they were 10.
    • A recent photo of CD with his little brother, Malcolm

    My oldest son, Nick, when he was in kindergarten, came home day after day telling me about his friend, Christian. When I happened upon this mysterious little guy’s mom at a school “movie night” I immediately introduced myself and told her that I sure as heck hoped she’d heard the name “Nick” at her house, because my kid was crazy about her son. When she assured me this was not new information to her, I just recall saying “Well, THANK GOD!” The two boys (and their mothers) became fast and lasting friends.

    Meet Christian Daniels. When I first met this smart, earnest, and polite little sports lover, I knew immediately he was a high quality human being. It was obvious even at age 5. Seriously, CD just entered the world a kind, articulate little guy and these facts remain unchanged, as does his lifelong love for U of L sports teams.

    Quick-witted, big-hearted and unflappable, Christian has always been both a hard worker and a high achieving student. He’s a natural leader, a quality which has been evident throughout his life. In grade school he was the point guard on the basketball team and the QB on the football field. In high school, he was captain of the basketball team (AND he was an IHSAA State Champion), and now he’s the top dog at his fraternity at Miami of Ohio. His peers have always respected him, because, quite frankly, he’s a respectable guy. It’s that simple.

    Christian is faithful, a man of integrity, mature and self-confident. He has a positive attitude, and he’s a gentleman. He’s true to his word. If he tells you that he is going to do something, you can count on it. He has a high moral compass and he’s an honest and compassionate friend with a terrific sense of humor. I could not ask for a better young man to have in my house eating those pancakes he learned to cut LIKE A BEAST in my very own kitchen! (Ha? See what I did there CD?)

    As a big brother, there just isn’t a finer example. Who else do you know at age 19 who makes extra trips to and from school so he can coach his little brother’s CYO team? I wish I could adequately describe to you the pure joy and pride on Malcolm’s face because his big brother was on that bench with him, coaching his team. That selflessness on CD’s part and for the benefit of all those little SLDM Cardinals will never be forgotten by his little brother, who truly worships him.

    Last week, I got a beautiful note from CD. In it, he spent considerable time thanking me for the kindnesses shown to him over the years. It was classic Christian in tone, just positive and upbeat, brightening my day and spreading happiness, because he can. He looks for the good in others, and in a world filled with so many people who don’t take the time to do the same, Christian SHINES.

    Happy 21st Birthday to you, CD! My life and the lives of all the Thieme family are so much richer because of your presence. What inspires me about you is the way your character shines, no matter the circumstances. The quote (above) that you shared with me in your note made me smile. You said it was one of your favorites, and I can see why. It fits you perfectly. LOVE YOU, KID.

  • Mad for…Michele

    He who watches over you will not slumber. (Psalm 121:3)

    So today, I’ve decided to talk less and post more photos than normal. To say that it’s been a long few years for my friend, Michele Maginot, would be a colossal understatement. Today marks the 4th birthday in a row that she has endured without her youngest daughter, Jen. The beautiful and utterly kind Jen would be 19 years old today.

    My fellow Boilermaker fan with the most hilarious dry sense of humor, Michele is also the most patient person around. How do I know this? It’s her beagles. Dear God in heaven, someone please explain to me how seemingly reasonable people like Michele seem to love their beagles despite all the destruction they leave in their wake!? Ha?

    Jen’s been much talked about for her kindness, and I know she’s in heaven today watching over her thoughtful, funny mama, as well as her Dad, Paul and her brother Greg and sis, Alli. Jen’s defining quality, I always thought, was a rather impressive reflection on the quiet grace and kindness she learned by the witness of her terrific mom.

    Michele, by the grace of God and many, many prayers offered, you’re still standing. I know you’re tired, I know the tank sometimes feels empty, and you might be running on fumes….but you’re still running. You’re allowed to slip away and find a quiet place, for a moment, an hour, a day. Just remember when you do it to rest your weary head on the shoulder of the One who never sleeps and who never ceases to watch over you because HE LOVES YOU. You are the beloved daughter of the most high God. So you just put your head in His lap today.

    Michele and Jen
    Alli, Jen, and Greg
    Paul and Michele

    You, my dear friend, are a family of 5. For now and forever. Therefore, I’ve posted pictures which reflect that. So today, my prayer for you is that God rains down grace for you so that you find the strength to take a deep breath, say a prayer and take the next step. God loves the way you keep calm and trust on, how you reach out to help others. He loves the way you keep going. YOU ARE AN INSPIRATION TO ME for your positivity, strength and selflessness. I hope you feel the hug I’m trying to send you. I love you. Happy Heavenly Birthday to your girl. She sees you, and she’s SO PROUD.

  • Mad for…Ann

    “To help children, boys and girls, young men, women and adults to know and love the Lord ever more is one of the most beautiful educational adventures…” (Pope Francis)

    • Don and Ann Kalmey

    Day 41 of 365.

    One of her several recent notes read, “I wanted you to know that yesterday you were my special intention at mass and communion. My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you.” Meet Ann Kalmey. She’s the mother of one of my most dear friends on the planet, Lisa, as well as two more grown children, Lee Ann and Doug. She’s a grandmother to a whole slew of accomplished and amazing young people. I really know her just a little, from a sprinkling of moments together over the years, and yet this fact is utterly unsurprising.

    You and I, all of us actually, we sometimes wish for a better world, a better way, an improved life in one way or another. Standing between the ideal and reality are mountainous obstacles, colossal challenges….and we think I’m only one person!! What can I possibly do? Let me tell you what you can do! You can BE LIKE ANN!

    Ann and her incredibly fun-loving and intelligent husband raised their beautiful family with a strong base of faithfulness as it’s core. Ann spent much of her professional career as a principal at St. Margaret Mary Catholic School near Louisville, KY. Because Ann is an unbelievably articulate and very strong woman, I know without a doubt that the staff of teachers she led and the students under her care were both well educated in the faith and unconditionally and compassionately supported. “Without confidence and love, there can be no true education” said St. John Bosco. I quite agree. What an amazing way Ann has served the Lord with her life and vocation!

    In more recent years, Ann also FOUGHT THE BEAST….and she WON! I am confident she has met many other obstacles in her life besides breast cancer with similar fire and persistence. Her formidable strength and faithfulness as well as an overflowing helping of compassion are to me, her defining qualities.

    Here’s the thing Ann reminded me of in recent days with her persistent and thoughtful reaching out. God can do immeasurably more than we could ever imagine. On our own our little efforts might be little in our minds eye, but when we live our lives with Christ at the center, we aren’t on our own– we are souls magnifying the Lord! We needn’t ever think “I can only do so much!”

    Thank you, Ann, for being an encouraging face of the Lord to all in your path. Your daughter, Lisa, is a fierce and unbelievably loving and faithful woman because of the love of her mother. I couldn’t do life without her, and this week I realize how fortunate I am that through her, I’ve been able to get to know her spectacular sparkplug of a mother….and snag a scoop of your fabulousness in my life too!

  • Mad for…Jackie

    Great is a teacher’s influence on his pupils if they love him. -St. John Bosco

    • SLDM teacher, Jackie Adams, with student, Nina Welsh

    Today, I’d like to introduce you to another bright light. Her name is Jackie Adams. Phenomenally adept as a teacher, and an even finer human being, Jackie is a 5th grade teacher at St. Louis de Montfort Catholic School in Fishers.

    As my youngest son prepares to exit grade school and heads on to Guerin Catholic High School next fall, I find myself incredibly grateful for the gift that so many amazing educators have been for my three sons over the years. This particular gal is simply an amazing soul. People who take the time to notice what is special about ALL THE CHILDREN in their classroom are a rare breed. I have a mother who taught grade school for over three decades. I know from evenings filled with stories about school experiences that it’s easy to notice the squeaky wheels and it’s impossible to miss the truly brilliant. It’s so easy to overlook “the regular guy”. This teacher never does that. Jackie taught my “regular guy” youngest son math for 2 years, and it quickly became his favorite subject. Folks, math is hard. There’s lots of homework. This is no small feat!

    With Jackie at the helm, the learning atmosphere has been described to me as “kind of serious, but also laid back.” My son said, “Ask anyone, Mom, because EVERYONE likes Mrs. Adams! She really knows how to teach hard stuff and make us understand.”

    Jackie has a great smile and a very funny and sarcastic sense of humor that plays well to the middle school audience, as well as their parents. Yes, she’s creative in her use of fun games to keep the children engaged, and she’s truly gifted with her unique ability to teach new and difficult material. Children leave her classroom ahead of their peers in other nearby schools, because she’s experienced and talented, yes, but I think it’s more than that. You see, the students also know she truly cares about them.

    Jackie does things like drive 40 minutes (one way) to see her students play in a CYO game, because she understands that her presence speaks to them loudly about how much they matter. She organized routine trips to the adoration chapel for the students in her class who wanted the opportunity for extra prayer time– an effort which required her to seek parent support. It would be so easy to just “skip it.” She instinctively knew the extra prayer time was incredibly valuable. She shares with her students about her love for them and for her own beautiful (and very blessed) daughter. In short, she is a compassionate, caring woman.

    Her smile reaches her eyes and her words are spoken from her heart. This kind of light fills a room, and it inspires in her students a deep desire to work hard and succeed! If your child is lucky enough to spend the day in her care, they will inevitably experience the light of God’s love for them in the person of Mrs. Adams.

    THANK YOU, JACKIE ADAMS, for being the light of Christ to SO MANY young people everyday. What you do everyday matters so very much. Your witness of love is a great inspiration to me personally and it reminds me that I should always make an effort to let God’s love shine through me too! The Thieme family LOVES YOU, Jackie, and we are grateful!

    “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

  • Mad for…Lisa

    Most of the time, holiness is just about doing the ordinary things of everyday life really well. -Matthew Kelly

    • My friends, Lisa Oberndorfer (left) with Jill Folstrom

    Day 35 of 365.

    I’m not going to lie. It appears I can be bought for the price of one very oversized piece of “celebration” cheesecake from the Cheesecake Factory. The big hug and the front door dessert delivery this afternoon might be the reason I chose TODAY to write about Lisa Oberndorfer, but let’s be clear….she was going to appear in this column during 2019…that’s a fact!

    Lisa is a mom to three BEAUTIFUL young adults (Jordan, Kelsey and Will) and the wife of a pretty fantastic Boilermaker fan named Jeff. There are so many examples of her goodness that I could share, and I have only known Lisa more intimately for what I consider to be a fairly short span of time. Here’s the thing about Lisa. She’s an utterly compassionate and very funny woman who has the courage and humility to present herself to the world full of hurting people. Probably, she isn’t even aware that she’s an exceptional example of what Pope John Paul II called true holiness.

    “True holiness”, he said, “does not mean a flight from the world, rather, it lies in the effort to incarnate the Gospel in everyday life, in the family, at school, at work, and in ones social environment.” Lisa shows up with her big heart and her gift for knowing when to offer a listening ear. She instinctively grasps that it’s about attention over giftedness, its about setting aside oneself and choosing the needs of the other. She realizes life may not be perfect, but she sees the blessings and she IS DYING to pass some light along to the next person. She’s a pay it forward kind of gal.

    When my oldest son was an angst-ridden freshman at Xavier University, she offered up her experienced Muskie, Kelsey, to encourage him. When I was getting a little too testy at the high school basketball games, she winked at me and handed me a sucker…which she called a “husher”…to make me laugh and quiet myself. Let’s be clear, she needed to do this repeatedly, for an extended number of weeks. Ha? We all behave better while we are laughing at ourselves with a fist full of sugar? She showed up at the house with delicious muffins when she heard I’d had a recent cancer diagnosis and lent an ear and some sage and prayerful wisdom. Also, she showed up with CELEBRATION CHEESECAKE when the diagnosis take a turn for the better. She’s been present for so many people at a time in their lives that it required great humility to show up and offer her care and concern, not sure of the response she might receive, but wanting to do the work of the Lord. THAT is everyday holiness.

    I’d be utterly remiss if I didn’t mention the amazing work Lisa and her son, Will, have done with a charity they founded called “Diabetes Will’s Way” shortly after Will was diagnosed with Type I Diabetes as a 6th grader. Will’s Way serves underinsured young people who need assistance with supplies. They provide grants for durable medical equipment like insulin pumps and glucose monitors, and emergency grants too for families needing help with daily diabetic supplies. Lisa told me it was out of selfishness– intense love for her own son– that she began that great work. That made me laugh aloud. The poor woman has been “duped” by our good and gracious God!! I mean….this would NOT be the first time the Lord used the love of a mother to shower His grace on others…am I right? Hahaha!!! You’re in excellent company on that one, my friend.

    Thank you, Lisa, for being a wonderful witness to me of what it means to minister to others in so many important ways, but especially the gift of physical presence. Showing up is everything, and even better if you can pair it with a side order of quiet attentiveness. I so appreciate the reminder! You, my fellow Boilermaker, are a rare and beautiful gem! Your faithfulness, love and sense of humor must certainly be causing a big smile in heaven as your mom watches down over you. In your grief, you still showed up to minister to me. I noticed, and I’m taking notes. I LOVE YOU. THANK YOU FOR YOUR FRIENDSHIP!

    Incidentally, if any of you would like more information or to make a donation to Will’s Way, visit www.diabeteswillsway.com!

  • Mad for…Vincent

    What a great favor God does to those he places in the company of good people. –St. Teresa of Avila

    Super bowl Sunday seems like an appropriate day to toss the “Mad for” love out to New England! See this handsome young man in the yellow tie? He’s a junior at Boston College studying accounting. I’ve known this sports crazed, incredibly intelligent kid with the insane work ethic since he was a little guy, and he’s always been a clear reason I believe in the goodness of people. Meet Vincent Ferrucci. He’s a manager for the BC football team, a former Guerin Catholic Golden Eagle, and also a St. Louis de Montfort Cardinal for life!

    A lifelong New England Patriots fan who grew up in Fishers, Indiana, Vinny was never afraid to swim against the current. He was the kid bowing his head in prayer when the others dug into their meal, forgetting themselves. He was the only young boy who ever spent the night who NEVER failed to clear his plate and take it to the sink. Wow, he took some ribbing over the years. Vin’s as loyal as the day is long, though, and that goes for his Pats and Red Sox just the same as it goes for his buddies. Vin truly has no idea how much of a blessing he is to those around him, or how genuinely thrilled I have always been that my oldest son calls this kid one of his very closest friends. This is true despite that year he was like 1 for 33 from the free throw line, by the way…ha? I think my Dad even sent him an article that season about learning to shoot the underhanded shot, but I digress. Vin took the teasing in stride, always wearing that grin on his face and owning a self-depracating sense of humor. He was a beast around the boards on the basketball court, and the best darn left-handed catcher around.

    They say no beauty shines brighter than that of a good heart, and that makes Vincent Ferrucci a truly beautiful human being. There were times along the journey when I noticed folks around him simply didn’t appreciate the treasure they had in Vin. The thing is, good people don’t have to say they are good people…it’s just on display and easy to spot. Light attracts light. If you tell me you don’t care for Vin, I’m going to tell you to look in the mirror because the problem is you. He’s honest, he’s articulate, and he’s friendly. If I’m honest? Mostly, I think this young man glorifies God by the way he walks through life. I’m thankful to the Lord that my three boys have had the chance to walk beside him and learn a little from his faithfulness, kindness and amazing work ethic.

    Vin’s a passionate guy– he’s got a little Italian in the secret sauce. You can’t coach that and I for one always have LOVED IT! He’s also a guy who would never take advantage of another person, and he’s going to make you laugh as he helps you in your moment of need. If he passes through your life, you’ll want to hang on tight– he’s a keeper! Vin? Linemen win games. I still stand with Lombardi on that. You always blocked your heart out. I love you kid. I really do. Thank you for being a witness of what it means to be a man of integrity. Boy, does this world need you! As much as it hurts me, look what I’m about to do for you…

    GO PATS!!

  • Mad for…Renee

    Good sense of humor, potty mouth, and a beautiful heart. Add in a little country music and a few hundred pairs of shoes and what that adds up to is a magical combination. Meet my dear friend, Renee Schwegman. People with a sense of humor are so much easier to talk to, and when you add to that the fact that Renee has literally never met a stranger she cannot subdue, we were simply destined to be friends.

    • Renee Schwegman. How gorgeous is she?

    Renee is the mom of two pretty great kids and the wife of the only grown man I know who has managed to successfully avoid the “Dad jeans” trap. That’s a compliment, Jeff. She’s also proudly “Aunt Nay” to Max and Lilah, the children of her pretty cool sister, Kathy. Renee is simply too big of a personality to capture in a few paragraphs, but I’d like to tell you about some of my favorite qualities that make Renee one of the finest humans I’ve ever had the pleasure to call friend.

    I like authentic people, and Renee is as genuine as they come. Don’t be a pretender, because I will find you out. I like people with whom I can occasionally have meaningful, deep conversations and at the same time will understand that in my head I still say “Wed-nes-day”. We both sometimes enjoy employing the F-bomb. It’s a nuanced and magical word that can really be any part of speech you want. Make no mistake, though, my friend Renee has one of the most generous hearts around. She loves fiercely. For these two reasons alone, her authenticity and generosity, I credit the undeniable fact that she has more friends from more varied backgrounds than anyone I know. Well, there’s also the fact that she doesn’t even know how to SPELL introvert.

    If you’re ill, she’ll show up with dinner. When your kids need a place to be for a few days, she’ll set up “Camp Schwegman”. She’s compassionate, kind and gifted. She’s driven out of her way to help out nearly everyone she knows so many times that we all need to shower her with gas cards…but she’d definitely prefer if you just took her out for a beer. Even better if they are playing live music there. She knows how to laugh at herself, and with her in my life, its a much sunnier, more adventurous journey. Also, it’s tastier. The girl can cook. I love people who make me laugh. Honestly, it might be the thing I like the most, because it’s definitely NOT her taste in Big Ten teams.

    I read this quote today which is why I chose to write about Renee. “Where joylessness reigns, where humor dies, the spirit of Jesus Christ is assuredly absent.” Pope Benedict wrote that and it made me think…well I have a close friend who is the exact opposite of that…so HOW BLESSED AM I? Renee? You are a boot-wearing badass, and a treasure in my life with a heart of pure gold. THANK YOU for all the times you’ve sent me an inappropriate text that made me laugh and remember not to take myself or life too seriously. I LOVE YOU. SO MUCH.

  • Mad for…Sr. Sophia

    Wherever God has put you, that is your vocation. It is not what we do but how much love we put into it. -Mother Theresa

    Note to reader: This is day 30 of 365 in my year long project to introduce others to some fantastic person each day this year that I think really makes a positive difference in the world with their life.  The world needs more reasons to smile, so today I submit to you, Sr. Sophia, a Nashville Dominican.  If you want to know more  about her order, visit:  NashvilleDominican.org

    It’s Catholic Schools Week across the nation right now, and I find myself terribly grateful for my own Catholic education as well as those of my own three sons. This feeling of gratefulness for the enormous blessings got me reminiscing interiorly about one of my favorite CSW experiences a few years back. I’d like to share a pinch of it with you.

    Several weeks before CSW that year, I was over at the football fields at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel cheering on my favorite Cardinals who were facing off against the big, bad Raiders (ha!) when a conversation ensued. It was between a group of grade school chums whose siblings were out on the field playing. As they ran around in the grass tossing a small nerf football some well-prepared mom had packed, they were stopped dead in their tracks.

    “Hey you guys! Look over there! Why are those crazy ladies wearing matching white dresses?”

    “They look kind of funny! It’s too hot for long dresses today…plus that’s really fancy for a football game.”

    Frankly, the fact that the sweet kiddos clearly HAD NO CLUE that these “crazy ladies” were religious women was a touch shocking to me. It made me sad too. As a youngster myself, many of my teachers were Franciscan sisters, and some of them really helped to form me in my faith. These two beautiful Dominicans had come to cheer on their students, and their presence there that sunny day changed the CSW plans I had in my mind on the spot.

    Meet Sr. Sophia. She’s a spitfire from New Jersey, and also she is a Dominican Sister of Saint Cecelia. The Order is based in Nashville, Tennessee and they are strongly committed to Catholic education. I made a few calls that winter and with a little strong-arming from OLMC pastor, Fr. Richard Doerr, I was able to get Sr. Sophia over to talk to children at SLDM about her vocation during Catholic Schools Week. For most of the children she spoke to that day, she was the very first religious woman they had ever met. It was a very cool experience to witness.

    I have only briefly spoken to Sr. Sophia– maybe twice. I’m sure she will be surprised to learn I’ve written about her today, because my name will not be familiar to her. Here’s the thing. A vocation talk by a joyful person in a religious vocation is a game changer. By the example of her consecrated life, she taught a few little ones the way to holiness and joy that day. She spoke to them enthusiastically about the trinity, her background, her prayer life, and her love of the Church. They were enamored. She also answered some pretty hilarious questions without even a hint of condescension. She was the face of Jesus to many that day and I have never forgotten her, praying for her often.

    I asked a friend whose son had Sr. Sophia as a junior high religion teacher at OLMC to share with me a little about her as a teacher. She said this, “He loved her, he enjoyed her teaching, always felt like she was for the kids, wanted everyone to do well, she was interested in them as a person and encouraged them to dig deeper into their faith. She connects very well with the students.”

    Why am I not surprised?

    I LOVE this very funny story shared with me about her and I hope that my sweet friend won’t mind it’s retelling. Apparently, after a talk about “relationships” by Sr. Sophia, she made such an impact that all of the young students that were part of “a couple” in her class decided to just be friends instead. While there weren’t reportedly a large number of “couples” anyway, it’s a tale about her influence that made me snicker.

    Sr. Sophia is full of personality. She’s small but mighty! I chose this photo of her because she’s up on a folding chair standing next to her fairly tall student, Dylan, at graduation. Her infectious smile and authentic joyfulness is on display. Its that same spirit of joyfulness and camaraderie that I notice on display by all the members of her community who I have been lucky enough to meet.

    This Catholic Schools Week, at a time when Christian education is much maligned, I wanted to take a moment to give thanks to God for Sr. Sophia and ALL the religious women who have made a difference for so many of us by their enthusiasm for the truth of the Gospel, as well as the selfless way they share their lives with all of us. THANK YOU, SR. SOPHIA! What you do everyday? Oh goodness, it matters! Today, my rosary will be for you.

  • Mad for…Larry

    Be grateful for small things, big things, and everything in between. Be grateful for today and never take anything or anyone for granted. Life is a blessing.

    • Larry Banther

    He’s an unsung hero working to make sure the children and his co-workers are safe. I have been watching him for the better part of two decades as he stands guard, often wearing many layers of clothing, topped with his signature bright orange coat. He hustles dozens of cars filled with little children in an out of the parking lot each day, genuinely concerned for the safety of each child. He does it everyday, in pouring rain…and also in frigid cold like today.

    Meet Larry Banther. It’s currently 9 degrees here in Central Indiana. That’s actually several degrees WARMER than it was when he was managing the morning carpool, as always, at St. Louis de Montfort Catholic School in Fishers. He’s the man in charge of building maintenance at my son’s school. However, Larry is much more than that. How many building maintenance guys at schools across the state who you suppose are also certified school safety specialists? I don’t know the answer, but I’d be surprised if there were many others. He’s literally taken the time to be fully trained to know how to make the parish he works for as safe as it can possibly be. THAT is cool and inspiring.

    Larry’s not a fancy guy, but he’s a steady and vital contributor every single day. Also, I learned some time ago he’s a big fan of Mountain Dew– so consider the Taco Bell gift card and keep the McDonald’s one for someone else. I’ve watched him deal patiently with rude, obnoxious and difficult people. They serve as important reminders of how NOT to be. Mostly, I really do think he is appreciated and loved by the folks around him. However, sometimes I’ve wanted to raise my voice and yell “Don’t be condescending to Larry. Try his job for half a day first.” This guy scoops snow, spreads salt, and climbs up to check out a leaky roof. He mops up a lunch room floor covered in spilled milk and smashed grapes. He’s called in when someone had the stomach flu and the 3rd grade room is essentially uninhabitable. He’s a jack of all trades, he’s reliable, and he’s kind. He also has a great smile and a really terrific laugh.

    In the midst of the everyday chaos, Larry is treasure to many for his steadfast care and helpfulness. THANK YOU, LARRY for keeping my 3 boys safe, warm, and dry these last 16 years. I truly appreciate you!!