Worldly wisdom: Traveler teaches lessons of mercy, charity, simplicity

Feed the hungry, check; Give drink to the thirsty, check; Shelter the homeless, check: Without blinking an eye a teacher from Our Lady of the Valley Catholic School stayed true to these Corporal Works of Mercy held dear by many Catholics.

Teacher Joyce Lund overheard Father Andrew talking to a young man from Argentina who was telling his unique story. Javier D’Esposito had left his home in Ushuaia, Tierra Del Fuego 20 months ago with the goal of riding his bicycle from the bottom of South America to the top of North America. He began the journey Dec. 30, 2011, and reached Prudhoe Bay July 30. Now, he was on his way home when he rode into the Sacred Heart parking lot.

D’Esposito was asking Father Andrew if he could rest for a few days in the wooded area near the church. Within minutes of the request, Joyce Lund had the young man packed in her car and was driving him to her home where he would receive a hot meal, a clean bed, and all the comforts of home.

Karl Lund, also a passionate world traveler, welcomed the weary young man and spent several hours talking with D’Esposito. The Lunds learned that D’Esposito was a P.E. teacher of preschoolers and first-graders and wanted to “live” in a unique way for a bit of his life. He said that throughout his long journey, he was met by the kindness of strangers. In a world where we often place suspicions first, it was refreshing to see that some people believe in charity first.

Pope Francis, also from Argentina, is trying to embrace a more humble lifestyle. He occupies this prestigious position of a world religious leader and he is asking to carry his own luggage. He is setting a wonderful example of simplicity. (When we take away many comforts and extra “stuff” we are living more like Jesus. It leaves room for quieter thoughts and possibly more honorable actions.)

Very few people will have the strength or opportunity to accomplish D’Esposito’s trek; but we all have the ability for kindness and mercy.

Would you repeat the actions of Karl and Joyce Lund and place charity and kindness above suspicion?