# Waiting Our Turn: A Prayer for Difficult Times
*2016-11-02*

> Bill Young reflects on the Cubs’ historic World Series win after 108 years as a metaphor for patience, then leads a prayer written by St. John Paul II for today’s challenges.

## A Historic Win and the Lesson of Patience

The Chicago Cubs finally won the World Series after a 108‑year drought, and I found myself cheering for them. Their long wait reminded me that sometimes we, too, must wait our turn—whether it’s a sports team, a city like Cleveland hoping for its own victory, or any other long‑standing hope.

## Waiting and Immigration

Patience is also a reality for many immigrants who have waited years for legal citizenship. While we cherish the freedoms of this country—freedom of speech, press, and the right to bear arms—we must also respect the laws that protect those freedoms. Compassion, as taught by the Catholic Church, calls us to welcome those who seek a better life, but it must be balanced with a responsible immigration policy that safeguards citizens.

## My Family’s Journey

My own grandparents came from Italy in the early 20th century, arriving at Ellis Island. My grandfather worked in construction, built the house where I grew up in the Bronx, and even after losing both legs in an accident, he remained a God‑loving, grateful man. Their story reminds us that many who came before us waited in line, trusted in God, and built new lives without government assistance.

## Prayer of St. John Paul II

Now let us pray the prayer that St. John Paul II wrote for “Help Us in These Difficult Times.”

Mother of Christ, we look to you with sorrowful eyes. You know our lack, our sorrows, and the depths of our hearts. We ardently desire that you speak to your Son about the hardships of our present age. May we listen to Him every day, even when life seems demanding. Guide us to the Gospel, the joy, the commitment to suffering and salvation. With this Gospel in our hearts, help us overcome today’s difficulties so that we may reach the tomorrow Christ invites us to. Amen.

## Closing Reflection

The Cubs’ 108‑year wait is a small reminder that we have been waiting over 2,000 years for the return of our Lord Jesus Christ. May we remain patient and faithful.

*Patience, rooted in faith, helps us endure both personal and communal challenges until God’s promised fulfillment arrives.*