Best of Steve Goodier: Shot of Enthusiasm

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Enthusiasm is something I can get excited about!

I remember a story told about playwright and U.S. Ambassador to Italy, Claire Booth Luce. She became a Roman Catholic late in life and, like many others converted to something new, she seemed to possess limitless enthusiasm and energy about her new faith.

A reporter once spotted her engrossed in deep conversation with the pope. He crept within earshot, all the while wondering what important issues the ambassador and the pope could be discussing. Finally, he was close enough to hear the pope say to Ms. Luce, “But I already am a Catholic!” Read more

Steve Goodier - Shot of Enthusiasm

Enthusiasm is something I can get excited about!

I remember a story told about playwright and U.S. Ambassador to Italy, Claire Booth Luce. She became a Roman Catholic late in life and, like many others converted to something new, she seemed to possess limitless enthusiasm and energy about her new faith.

A reporter once spotted her engrossed in deep conversation with the pope. He crept within earshot, all the while wondering what important issues the ambassador and the pope could be discussing. Finally, he was close enough to hear the pope say to Ms. Luce, “But I already am a Catholic!”

All right, maybe she got carried away at times. But is it possible to be whole and happy without enthusiasm? I find that a genuine verve for living is a by-product of an unwavering focus upon that which is great and magnificent and beautiful. It is like energy pulsing forth from one who, in a positive way, is obsessed by a greater truth, a more beautiful dream, a more captivating vision. Read more