Stand Up to Cancer Day

There is an interesting synergy between society’s calendar and the liturgical calendar today. One of the communion antiphons provided for today proclaims: “Come to me, all who labour and are burdened, and I will refresh you, says the Lord.” Our daily experience is filled with moments of burden, probably one of the most frequent is hearing of friends and family who are dealing with cancer in its various stages.

Today, society’s calendar offers us an opportunity to hold in our hearts those we cherish who are dealing with cancer, and at the same time become more aware of the research and contribute through financial donations. “Stand Up To Cancer” is an American organization started in 2007 by a group of women involved in media. The first case of cancer was documented around 3000 BCE on papyrus, and in 1903 radiation therapy was first used. The Canadian Cancer Society was founded in 1938. Over the many centuries research has identified the various types of cancer, some causes, and treatments that can slow and even manage the growth for periods of time.

Today, Stand Up to Cancer Day reminds us of the need for donations to continue the research.  The Canadian Cancer Society always welcomes our support.

From the scripture passage quoted above the phrase “I will refresh you” conveys the hope that holds us through times of trial. As a society we might consider that hope in the research work, and through the scientists who collaborate to find cures. As people of faith that hope also is found in the many persons who care for those suffering; hope is found in the cancer survivors who tell their stories and claim each day as gift; hope is found in walking the journey with friends and family, being supportive and hearing their stories. Stories that take hold of the situation and seek the energy for that one single day. These are my heroes, who teach me to cherish the gift of life. They “stand up to cancer” whether it be through their commitment to the therapies, their cherished time of resting, their pondering and sharing of treasured memories, their struggles to accept this challenge.

As we continue to support the research and researchers, especially today let us be mindful of our heroes who “stand up to cancer”. As a community, we hold them in prayer and walk with them on their journey.

-Sister Loretta Manzara, CSJ

Image: National Cancer Institute/Unsplash

International Literacy Day

“A Boy on Horseback” Photo credit: I-Stock with permission

I first saw him, a young boy on horseback, dressed in national costume, riding the grassy slopes of the steppe lands of Outer Mongolia, where my work, at that time, took me. The boy set out, early in the morning, on horseback. I was told by the Mongolian host that he was headed for school some 30 miles distant. It was through this encounter that I learned that, despite the hardships that the country was enduring at the time, a commitment to free compulsory schooling remained a pervasive cultural value with an emphasis on reading and writing.

One of the results of such nationwide policy, arising during the 20th century socialist period and continuing, is the astounding level of adult literacy in the country. Even today, Outer Mongolia is a leader in global literacy tables. Between 98-99% of the population read and write. Even given such success, further moves are now being taken to strengthen the reading skills of children under 5. What a tremendous example of global possibility as on September 8, each year, International Literacy Day (ILD) is celebrated.

First declared by UNESCO in 1996, this year International Literacy Day is celebrating a 60-year anniversary with a gathering in Mexico entitled, “Literacy for the People, Planet and Prosperity”. The celebration of ILD serves as a reminder that reading and writing are basic human rights opening the door to other rights. Having literacy skills helps to significantly reduce poverty, enhance health, create equality and social growth–offering possibility across the globe. As former Secretary-General of the United Nations, Kofi Annan, has said: “Literacy is a bridge between misery and hope.”
As well as traditional “book-skills”, ILD has also encouraged effective and responsible engagement with digital media. Of note, however, this year are recent initiatives, led by the Scandinavian countries, to move away from digital-first classrooms to reverse a decline in reading comprehension and dropping literacy skills. A return to the use of physical books and handwriting, while not discounting gifts of the digital age, are being shown by scientists and educators to improve focus, comprehension and memory retention.

So, how might we celebrate International Literacy Day this year and contribute to the gift of literacy? Ideas may include making financial contributions to global and national projects that encourage reading and writing given that millions still lack these skills. More locally, reading with our children, inviting inclusive story gatherings, gifting books for our family and friends, hosting book drives to match teacher’s wish lists, volunteering to tutor children or adults, exchanging books with others, holding book clubs, promoting the use of libraries near us all help to raise awareness, enjoyment and social possibilities.

Next time we are nestled down with a good book or journalling the gift of our life’s journey, let’s also celebrate, with gratitude, these gifts. In the words of Pam Allyn, American literacy expert, “Reading is like breathing in and writing is like breathing out”- an essential then for a life well lived!

 -Sister Mary Rowell, CSJ