Our Lady's Juggler
by Anatole France
Barnabas was a native of Compiegne with great talent for juggling. He performed his talent of juggling to many cities. He was so talented that he attracted many people to watch. Although, he had a hard time making a living for himself just by juggling in a small crowd of people. He was quite religious and never used God's name in vain. Barnabas was a humble and honest man that adored the Holy Virgin. One night, Barnabas and a monk fell in a conversation that lead Barnabas to become a monk himself. The monk saw simplicity and honesty in this man. One day, Barnabas was alone in the chapel and the two monks were observing the place through the bars of the door. The two priors spotted Barnabas lying in front of the image of the Holy Virgin, juggling six copper balls and twelve knives on his feet. They didn't understand what in the world he was doing and thought he was disrespecting the Hold Virgin. After a while, the witnessed the Holy Virgin come out of image, wiping the sweat from Barnabas forehead.
I think this story is a good way to look to God when there
are times that we can't go through certain situations
anymore. I will help us to keep the faith and hope alive.
Even if Barnabas was a poor man, he never
complained with what he didn't have rather than just be
thankful of what he did and made the best of it.
He looked to God and found a way to make his life
better and yet, he even had the chance to be
touched by the Holy Virgin.
