All people are born as originals but many die as photocopies.”
Blessed Carlo Acutis
This is a quote from Blessed Carlo Acutis. This quote is a call to recognize that our differences are what make us unique in God’s eyes. In our society, it’s so easy to compare ourselves to others. We say things like, “I’d be prettier if I looked like her” or “more people would like me if I had his personality.” Carlo Acutis calls to us in this quote to stop comparing ourselves. How bland would the world be if everyone was a carbon copy of each other? Unfortunately, the internet, especially social media, contributes greatly to this notion. The internet makes it much easier to find people to compare ourselves to.
It’s hard to remember that the moments that people choose to share with the world are very different from reality. However, the internet is also extremely useful. Blessed Carlo Acutis knew this. Carlo was considered to be a technological genius by all who knew him. Even his friends and family members who had computer engineering degrees agreed with this notion. Carlo’s interests consisted of computer programming, film editing, and website creation. In fact, one of the things that Blessed Carlo is known for is the website he created. Carlo created this website to document and catalog all of the Eucharistic miracles. You see, Blessed Carlo had a deep devotion to the Eucharist even when he was a child. At just 7 years old, he received his first Holy Communion and was instantly devoted to the glorification of the Holy Eucharist. Blessed Carlo Acutis died of acute leukemia on Oct. 12, 2006, and was beatified on Oct. 10, 2020. He is on the path to becoming the first millennial saint.
How do you use the internet? Is it a blessing or a burden? How could you use social media to better yourself instead of tearing yourself down?
Blessed Carlo Acutis, pray for us.
Shayla McCarthy is the oldest daughter of LWGL contributor, Tammi McCarthy. At sixteen years old, she exhibits a maturity that few at her age possess. She has been homeschooling all her life and enjoys singing and playing piano. As a dancer, she loves to perform onstage whether it’s tap, hip hop, jazz or ballet. She has a special devotion to St Maria Goretti and spends any free time with close friends.
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