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Beyond the surface's avatar

Wow, I really loved your perception of his story ❤️✨. I'm someone who has very little knowledge about Christianity, but it was genuinely amazing to learn about Francis's story through your article. And I think this world could become a little better if every human, regardless of their religion, could reflect on his story this way .

Great writing, BTW 🙆✨

Paul Ian Clarke's avatar

Thank you so much, I really appreciate that ☺️

Beyond the surface's avatar

🙇❤️✨

Laurna Tallman's avatar

A couple of days ago, a friend offered me a statue of the Virgin Mary. I declined to place her among the overgrowth of weeds in my garden. St. Francis is not alone among the begonias!

I do appreciate your biographical insights. The film Zeffirelli made about him in 1972 left the viewer with the feeling that he was slightly mad.

Paul Ian Clarke's avatar

Thanks Laurna, I have not seen that fulm I might have to catch up with it.

Barbara Anne Smith's avatar

Churches often hit us with this question: what is God asking me to do? Right now I am trying to weigh religious teaching against mental and financial health - both of which are also God-given responsibilities.

Your point about the unfinished part of what Francis left is also interesting.

Paul Ian Clarke's avatar

Thanks Barbara and very true. Churches can be very good at forgetting we have other God given responsibilities as well!

Jennifer Low's avatar

I found a St. Francis in amongst the many Buddhas and have him in my garden. Will try to reflect on his whole story when I sit in fellowship with him😊

Paul Ian Clarke's avatar

There are so many enormous Buddhas at my local garden centre as well!