THE WINGLESS ASCENT

Reflection on Fulton J. Sheen's Why We Are Not Better

Saints are not born; they are made. Looking at the lives of our saints, we can see many instances which we may think disqualify them from sainthood. These instances are the deeds of killing, disrespect of parents, and even prostitution of our beloved saints. These instances prove that not all saints are good throughout their lives. In fact, the first saint is a criminal who was crucified together with Jesus Christ in Calvary.

Humans are born naturally good but it does not mean that we are immune to sin. The mere fact of knowing that we sin proves our natural goodness. Moreover, our innate goodness is responsible for us determining what is good from what is bad. This natural element in us already has allowed us to become saints.

However, this natural goodness would not help us attain sainthood if it will not shine out. It takes actions, not just one, to reveal to others that we are good. The inner goodness of a man can be seen in his good deeds.


Like our beloved saints, we are all good upon birth. Like them, anyone can become a saint through this natural goodness. Through good actions we can prove that we are worthy of saintly treatment. Although most of us today do not mind if we become saints or not, it is still best to do good work for us to be happy eternally. Hence, we are all called out to be saints!

This reflection is written again by Mark T, one of my better senior writers. In pictures is my brother Giovanni with some of his workmates taking a break in New Hampshire.