For right-minded people, difference is to be celebrated. In our world, there are innumerable differences between individuals, nations and peoples: differences of politics or race or gender or religion or age or ideology. Unfortunately such differences seem to lead to conflict whether on a minor scale or on a major scale.

St Therese of Lisieux, whose feast we celebrate today, in her simplicity and hiddenness possessed a wisdom surpassing that of many world leaders for all their education, intelligence, power, charism or wealth.

Difference is to be celebrated. Therese expressed this belief in a more poetic and creative way when she said: "The splendour of the rose and the whiteness of the lily do not rob the little violet of its scent nor the daisy of its simple charm. If every tiny flower wanted to be a rose, spring would lose its loveliness."

The Psalmist proclaims: "The Lord's power shall be known to his servants." Perhaps the Lord's power is most clearly recognizable in the myriad of differences which mark our universe from the smallest violet to the largest galaxy, from the new-born baby to the old person facing death after a long and rewarding life.