Somebody (12/13/2025)

“Somebody needs to…” I can’t count the number of times in my life that I have heard that intro to a problem that needs to be fixed or a situation that needs to be addressed. When I was little, and heard adults use it, I thought there was a person named Somebody that was sort of like a superhero with wonderful powers, strength, and intellect. In time, I learned that somebody usually meant someone other than the speaker. And eventually, I learned that I am somebody. I can’t do everything, but it’s amazing what I can accomplish if I just start because then other somebodies seem to come out of nowhere and help.

I remember the first time it dawned on me that I could be Somebody. Our teacher said, “Somebody needs to pick that up before someone falls over it.” When no one else moved, I did. It felt so good being Somebody that day. So, I tried it other times. I learned that I could usually at least begin the feat being requested. And I learned that when I stepped up, frequently others joined me.

And then, our teacher taught us the Prayer of St. Francis…”Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.” And I realized I was Somebody, really. I was Somebody called to act for the LORD every day. I learned that there was always work for the Kingdom that needed to be done by somebody; when I prayed that prayer in earnest, I felt like I was volunteering to be that Somebody. I didn’t feel it in a prideful way. Jesus would never approve of pride. I learned to do it with all humility but also with all the love I could muster.

“Where there is hatred, let me sow love;

Where there is injury, pardon;

Where there is doubt, faith;

Where there is despair, hope;

Where there is darkness, light,

And where there is sadness, joy.”

The other day, I heard a child tell another child, “I want to be somebody someday.” I wanted to tell the child, “You already are.” But I didn’t want to startle the child or admit I’d overheard and make it sound like I was ease dropping. I wanted to share what miles and miles and experiences galore have taught me. We are all Somebody. We are all called to be a part of the solution in this world, instruments of the peace, wholeness, and harmony that can only come when we all act like Somebody and do our part in, with and through the LORD.

There are so many needs in the world every day. Nobody can do everything, but everybody can be Somebody and do all they can with their unique gifts, their precious time, their loving presence.

I hope Somebody is listening or reading. There’s lots for Somebody to do for love of Christ and love of one another.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.