October 5, 2022

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-230

Sacheen Littlefeather has just died.  She was the Native American who spoke on behalf of Marlon Brando at the 1973 Oscars, declining his award for best actor due to the treatment of Native Americans in Hollywood. She was booed, mocked, and ultimately blacklisted.

When the Academy finally issued an apology to her 50 years later, she said “Regarding the Academy’s apology to me, we Indians are very patient people—it’s only been 50 years! We need to keep our sense of humor about this at all times. It’s our method of survival.”

Patience and humor. I have no authority to add to Paul’s list of the Spirit’s fruit, but if I did, I would put humor near the top of the list.

“O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the wholehuman family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; unite us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in
harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.” (For the Human Family – BCP)