It is great that the Confirmation ceremonies are taking place in many parishes after their postponement earlier in the year due to the Covid 19 pandemic. The ceremonies will be much simpler this time round, with much smaller numbers but at the same time full of meaning and symbolism. The following is a version of a reflection that is quite popular and is one that I am using to help the young people prepare for their Sacrament of Confirmation. It’s a reflection that can have meaning for us too.

You Are Special: In the entire world there is nobody just like you. Since the beginning of time there has never been another person like you. Nobody has your smile, your hands, your eyes, your hair. No one owns your handwriting or your voice; nobody can paint your brushstrokes on the canvas of life. You are the only one in the whole universe who sees things as you do. Throughout all eternity no one will ever think or do exactly as you do. What makes you laugh or cry is unique to you. You are the only one who has your particular set of abilities.

There is always someone who is better at one thing or another. This is the way life is and if we were all exactly at the same level, life could be boring! But no one else can match the combination of your talents, your feelings and your special gifts. This unique combination which you have, when used in harmony, is such a beautiful symphony.

You are rare. Like all things rare your value is beyond price. Therefore, because of your great value you don’t need to imitate anyone else. You are special and it is no accident that you are. You should realise that God made you special at this time in history, and in your particular circumstances, for a special purpose.

There is something to be done in God’s world now that only you can do. God dreams in you. You are incredibly special and always will be. We need to believe this each day, even during the days when we struggle to believe it.
You are special each day and especially special today.