How are you?

It is a simple greeting. Many a time we walk by without waiting for the answer. Now the connotation of this greeting has become serious and profound.

Nowadays ‘How are you?’ means ‘you had me worried;’ ‘I am truly concerned about your health;’ ‘I pray for you and all the people in the world.’

I feel like calling everyone and ask, ‘How are you Joe?’ ‘How are you Cathy?’ ‘How are you Jack?’ and receive positive answers. I wish I could see you all on my computer screen as you see me and the deacons during Mass.

The whole world is nearly homebound. People thirst for getting out: to see people, to be in the Sun, to take a lonely walk, to relish the fresh air etc. Value of anything is realized when it is deprived.

Social media throughout the world are utilized for the right purpose. A call, a text, an email and a video call bring forth relationship, goodwill, gratitude and happiness rather than mere sound, letters and images. Facebook and websites have become the hub of virtual meetings and sharing. Our website is visited by 1200 monthly, 251 weekly and 52 daily. Last weekend Mass had 271 viewings. I receive grateful emails from you appreciating efforts of the parish to reach out to parishioners.

We never liked any sort of confinement; but now we are forced to. Those confined to convalescent homes long for a ‘How are you?’ from us. A greeting card or a phone call will bring them the taste of ‘honey and milk.’

God says to us ‘How are you?’ We can hear Him through the first responders, doctors, nurses, truck drivers, those who work in grocery stores and all who risk their lives to serve us. They definitely deserve a ‘how are you?’ from us.

Can you find darkness while searching with a light? Enlightened minds will never be negative. Look forward into future with luminous eyes, hopeful hearts and unending faith.

We move along the current of a river in a boat without paddles, with the hope that very soon the current and the boat will take us to an unimagined shore of bliss.

How are you?