From Dust to Dust

The Church reminds us of the fate that awaits all men. We are mortal and destined to return to dust. The sacramental of blessed ashes reminds us of our mortality and also the transient nature of worldly glory. From the triumphant Roman generals to the Byzantine emperors, a Memento Mori has been a common practice to remind men that if their hearts are set on perishable things, their souls will perish with them. For good Catholics this is not a season of sorrow but of liberation from the attachments of the world. We should see every day we are given as a merciful call from God for a conversion of life.