Ever since I was in grade school, I have battled with allergies, particularly to dust, mold, and weeds.

In my forties, those allergies evolved into minor asthma issues. Luckily, I have had only one small asthma attack, during which it became difficult to breathe. Usually, I only develop slight wheezing, which simply requires two puffs from my Albuterol inhaler to remedy. I do take a couple of medicines that keep everything in check, and am able to do normal activities, including jogging, working in the yard, and swimming without experiencing issues.

Notwithstanding that reasonably good bill of health, my physician has suggested that I always keep my inhaler with me, just in case some irritant in the air causes an issue. I always keep that inhaler in my front pocket.

I also keep my rosary in a leather rosary pouch in a different front pocket. When I bring the Holy Eucharist to the sick or homebound, I place that pyx containing the Holy Eucharist in my rosary pouch as well.

Last week, I accidentally placed my inhaler in the same pocket that had the rosary pouch in it. I was surprised to find the inhaler had moved its way into the rosary pouch before I removed it.

I thought to myself that the inhaler gives me a breath of fresh air when needed, and the rosary gives me fresh strength through prayer, a renewed ability to better handle life's challenges, its ups and downs.

What is good for the soul is also good for the body. I am grateful for the many gifts that God gives us to stay well in body and soul. 

By: Deacon Tom Gryzbek