In the episode of Don Bosco and Bartholomew Garelli, in the sacristy of the church, which marked the beginning of Don Bosco's work for the poor and abandoned youth, there is a very clear distinction between the way Don Bosco approached the boy and the sacristan.
For the sacristan the boy was 'useless' unless he was able to serve Mass. A very utilitarian outlook. From this perspective the meaning of life is defined only in terms of what I do. The significance is derived from my achievements. Hence the emphasis on responsibility, role, position, status, success...
For Don Bosco, the boy was relevant just for himself. His significance was his mere existence and presence. Who I am. Hence the emphasis on relationship, spirituality, care, concern (for self and others). In this sense, a dimension that I need to grow in, when it comes to viewing others and myself is this: How deeply is this sense of identity rooted in God?
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