Just the Right Time

Just the Right Time

Pull up a chair and sit awhile

August 13, 2026

Dear Friend:

God seems to insert people into our lives at just the right moment. One of the people God inserted into my life was Father William Sullivan. He entered my life at exactly the right time.  I was facing a very difficult challenge in my life.

Father Sullivan was known for his gift of gab. His homilies rarely ended where you expected them to begin. Somewhere along the way he'd tell a story, and before you realized it, the story had become the lesson. Looking back, I think that's why so many people remembered what he said.

As a lector, I came to appreciate how often Jesus taught through stories. Father Sullivan did the same. Somewhere in the middle of a story, the lesson quietly revealed itself. Years later, I find myself writing the very same way.

There was a season in my life when I desperately wanted answers. Father Sullivan would gently remind me to listen to God and be patient. At the time, I wanted immediate solutions. Years later, I finally understood what he had been trying to teach me.

Father was known for his Irish-American heritage. Every year, on or near St. Patrick's Day, the parish choir would sing an Irish song in his honor.

Father also had a wit about him. And he knew exactly when that wit was needed. He was known for his lighthearted spirit. One of the stories parishioners loved to tell was how Father entertained the children. He'd make rabbit sounds and wiggle his fingers to look like rabbit ears, sending them into fits of laughter. Another favorite memory was listening to him play the piano by ear.

He served long enough to baptize the children of the children he had baptized.

Father Sullivan retired in 2008. He passed away at the age of 88 on June 19, 2021. He is surely missed by many.

One of the most important things I've learned in life is to be patient in adversity. Sometimes the answer is not immediately  apparent. Sometimes we do not recognize the answer because we are in too much of a hurry. Or because we've convinced ourselves there's only one possible answer. This is not always easy to do. And sometimes we do need an immediate answer. Looking back, I realize Father Sullivan wasn't simply my pastor. He was one of God's gifts during a difficult season of my life. His words continue to remind me to slow down, listen, and trust that the answers will come in God's time. Looking back, I think Father Sullivan taught me more than patience. He taught me that stories have a way of reaching the heart when advice alone sometimes cannot.

Is there someone who came into your life at just the right time and taught you an important lesson?

Until next time, stay well, stay safe, and stay connected to those you love.

Be well,

Emma

Emma is the voice behind Sharing with Seniors, where every story starts with a memory. Through stories of family, friendships, music, traditions, hometowns, and life's simple pleasures, she invites readers to pull up a chair, stay awhile, and remember the moments that have shaped their lives.