A couple of months ago I heard about a Marvel superhero cartoon series called “What If?” The premise of one show was “what if” Native Americans were able to win over the conquistadors and Queen Isabella? Intriguing! I haven’t watched a cartoon or read comics for many decades, nor have the Disney+ channel. But this turnaround story of a Native American woman superhero, Kahhori, was so compelling I found a way to watch this episode.
As she was finding her power, she had to turn to violence, flying through the air and planes of existence with blue light streaming from her eyes. It felt so foreign, violent, and contrived to me. I realized that my true superheroes were Pat and Charlaine McAnany and Celine and Don Woznica, social justice advocates, activists and warriors from their spirit and heart.
Pat McAnany recently passed away, just missing his 94th birthday. He was a friend for 47 years, a model and companion for me in my own varied social justice work, and a partner in Creation Care environmental work in our parish and archdiocese. When I was a young woman, we would have lively conversations in our friends’ home. He welcomed me and my husband into their home and we shared many holiday meals together. We are so grateful for their graciousness, and memories of interesting stories, conversations, delicious food, and humor.
With his wife Char, they were a force of nature and had a daily presence for others. It was so inspiring. They accomplished so much, helping so many causes and thousands of people. Yet they are humble people. Their peace and justice activism, deep faith, family, extended family, church community, and good organic food grown in their own backyard helped keep them young, healthy, and vital.
When a really, really good man dies, I feel the Earth shudder. He was formed in an era that doesn’t exist anymore. There was no need for violence or blue light streaming from his eyes. He let his social justice work and passion flow from his fine mind, deep faith, and caring heart.
Pat would often say, “God bless.” God bless you, Pat, as you rest in the sweet peace, light, and love of God. You will be missed so much by so many. And we sense you are having quite lively debates and conversations in the Light!
Gina Orlando
Oak Park