Kind Gesture

To the Editor:

Two years ago, I was walking on East 47th Street near Third Avenue when I noticed a white-haired gentleman standing at a building entrance in the direction I was headed. As I came near, I noticed that it was Cardinal Egan. I was particularly stressed that day because of mental illnesses of family members. It was particularly agonizing because I could not share the problem with others.

I introduced myself to the cardinal and told him I was very honored to meet him. I then briefly told him about my problem and asked him to pray for me. Cardinal Egan said a prayer for me and gave me his blessings on the spot. I thanked him, and as I was leaving he quickly reached into his pocket and handed me a rosary, saying, “Here’s something from the last time the pope was in town.”

Cardinal Egan’s kind gesture deeply touched me. That afternoon, I also noticed a strange coincidence. The date was May 15, the feast day of St. Dymphna, patron saint of mental disorders. I’ve since come to feel that it was not a coincidence—he was sent by the saint. To this day I treasure the rosary, which will forever be a reminder of his intellect, kindness and holiness.

Miwa Murphy

Long Island City, Queens