Charlie’s Gift

By Father Michael Orsi Charlie was no stranger to life’s difficulties. Yet, somehow he remained unscathed. I first met him at Our Lady Star of the Sea, in Cape May. Charlie was the maintenance man but really so much more.
He told me he started off as a barber in Ireland. He was able to do almost anything with his hands. But, his greatest assets were his cheerful disposition and his wisdom. The former being the product of the latter. Charlie reflected on life. He could see beyond the immediate to the big picture.
Charlie’s’ ready smile and warmth were so disarming. He quickly gained my confidence. I often wondered what made him so buoyant. I knew he enjoyed a drop of the creature on occasion, but, this could never account for the joy and peace he exuded.
A few weeks before Christmas, Charlie began the annual task of decorating the church. He never seemed happier. His whistling of Christmas tunes, especially Christmas in Killarney, which was followed by a muffled chuckle, reminded me of one of Santa’s elves at work.
I found myself envious of the inner magic that Charlie had. What was it? How could I get some of that spiritual holiday potcheen?
Shortly before Christmas I got my answer: I was in the sacristy after the church had been locked. Charlie didn’t know I was there. He thought he had complete privacy. I saw him kneeling like a child before the manger deep in prayer.
Unwittingly Charlie had revealed to me his secret. It was his faith in the miracle of Christmas – God came to us poor humans in Jesus. Charlie taught me many lessons. By far, this was the greatest.
I often think of Charlie when I am experiencing difficult times and I recall the image of that humble man on his knees in prayer.
Charlie died many years ago. But, whenever I visit my beloved Cape May County, I stop by St. Mary’s Cemetery to visit some old friends. Charlie is resting there. After a few moments of reminiscing by his tombstone, I raise an imaginary glass of Christmas Cheer and tip my elbow to the man whose Christmas gift to me keeps on giving.
(Orsi writes from Naples, Fla. where he is assistant pastor at St. Agnes Church. Previously, he served in several Cape May County parishes.)