Comeuppance for a Submarine

You've heard of persons being charged with reckless driving, but have you ever heard of anyone charged with reckless diving? The harbor patrol in Redondo Beach, California, lodged that charge against a man testing his invention there - a minature submarine! Having neglected three previous warnings, he was finally ticketed with a citation and fine for "endangering surface craft by submerging and emerging in the vincinity of the harbor entrance."

Inconsideration for the welfare of others takes many forms. There are simple discourtesies, such as uncovered sneezing or littering on streets or in public restrooms. Sometimes we are merely thoughtless, like when we are habitually late in keeping appointments or constantly interrupt another's thoughts. Other, more blatant, offenses might include reckless driving - or diving!

Paul, who strove to please everyone in every way (see 1 Corinthians 10:33) said that "nobody should seek his own good but the good of others" (10:24). He tells us "to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to buildh him up" (Rom 15:1)-2), because love "is not rude not self-seeking" (1 Cor 13:5). "Each of you, " he says, "should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others" (Phil 2:4). There's no greater challenge!

This excerpt is from the book One-Minute Meditations for Busy People, by John H. Hampsch, C.M.F., originally published by Servant Publications. It and other of Fr. Hampsch's books and audio/video recordings can be purchased from Claretian Teaching Ministry, 20610 Manhattan Pl, #120, Torrance, CA 90501-1863. Phone 1-310-782-6408 or www.Catholicbooks.net