On Saturday morning, on the way to the Southern Cross Precinct (Randwick Racecourse and Centennial Park) where the World Youth Day Evening Vigil and Closing Mass were to take place, pilgrims had to pass through seven “Power Stations”. Each one represented one of the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: Wisdom, Understanding, Knowledge, Counsel, Courage, Piety, and Awe. As pilgrims passed by, I would ask, “Which gift of the Holy Spirit are you asking for?” And so now that World Youth Day 2008 has come to an end, I have only myself to ask, “Which gift of the Holy Spirit are you asking for?” Is the Holy Spirit like Santa Claus? I just have to write my list and he’ll get me what I want? Except, unlike Santa Claus, the Holy Spirit is not limited to giving gifts at Christmastime. But I guess that’s one reason people get impatient with asking the Holy Spirit for a gift. You never know when he’ll give the gift, or if he’ll give you that gift specifically, or if he’ll give you a gift you weren’t asking for! For as long as I can remember, I’ve always wanted Wisdom. With Wisdom, I feel I can have the other gifts. Wisdom is to see myself and the world as God sees. Then I won’t worry when I don’t understand things, or something disastrous happens. I’ll be able to respond prudently to any situation. I’ll be able to do what’s right no matter the cost. I’ll be able to love God with all my heart and soul. Around 12 years ago, I remember someone telling me, “I think you’ll grow to be a wise old woman someday.” Please, Holy Spirit, don’t wait till I’m too old to give me Wisdom! - Image courtesy of WYD2008/Getty Images