Floating away with our prayers

I'm certainly not ahead of the curve with talking about this, I'm sure, but I wanted to discuss the "balloon rosary" that was launched on August 15 in Chicago.  I don't know if there is a more innovative or breathtaking example of witness than this idea.  While I understand that it may have offended some, I think it is absolutely one of the best ideas that I've seen in awhile for reaching people and making them think about "life".  I mean that both in the respect that they were intending as a pro-life example, but also life in general.  It awakens your thoughts to contemplating God and your prayer life.  If I were to suddenly and unexpectedly see a rosary floating by, I'm pretty sure that it would encourage me to take a little time out to pray.  That's not a bad reaction to inspire.  It's interesting to ponder that floating rosary causing countless numbers of people to take a few minutes from their day to say a quick prayer.  That is power!  That is strength!  It is such a small act...although I imagine that it took some time to assemble the rosary, but it is so dramatic and poignant.  We don't need to beat people over the head with the harsh parts of life and especially the pro-life movement when more subtle actions can have a greater affect on the hearts of many.

I love too, that this was an idea from a group of children.  Children are here to speak to us.  They have more wisdom that we sometimes credit them with possessing.  As a parent though, I'm often stunned and humbled by how quickly my son can get to the heart of the matter.  "Out of the mouths of babes," they say.  Certainly we are here to teach them and raise them, but I honestly believe that children teach us as much about the world and ourselves as we teach them.  It's the beauty of childhood. It causes us to slow down and view things through new, less jaded eyes.  Maybe that is why Christ so loved children.  Maybe too, should we put more esteem in these little hearts and minds.

All pictures from: https://picasaweb.google.com/104310456403281787387/GiantLIFEBalloonRosarySeenByThousandsOverChicagoSDowntown