By Today I gave my staff a couple of hours off for Saint Valentine's Day and they were all extremely grateful. As I thought about it I realized that their gratitude is probably connected to how busy their lives are.
We all live a hectic pace with a lot of demands on our time. I think my staff has taught me a valuable lesson that the gift of time is probably one of the most precious gifts we can give to each other.
We should all remember this when the next gift giving opportunity arises. We all have more than enough stuff but very often precious little time. On the next birthday, anniversary or holiday rather than a gift consider giving that friend or loved one a little extra time. It may well turn out to be the best gift of all.
Joseph Strickland
Bishop Joseph E. Strickland was named the fourth bishop of Tyler in September of 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI. Prior to being named bishop, he served a number of roles in the diocese, including vicar general, judicial vicar, and pastor of the Cathedral parish. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1985. 