Meet my new buddy,
Saint Anthony,
for whom the city of
San Antonio, Texas
was named.
This statue stands
along their famous Riverwalk,
watching over passersby
as he holds an infant Jesus
in his arms.

I was drawn to the statue;
I saw it across the river
and went out of my way
to get a closer look.
He had an eerie presence,
a kind face
and a hypnotizing gaze.

I’ve since learned Saint Anthony
was known as a gifted communicator
and miracle worker
who preached against hatred,
routinely attracting crowds of 30,000
in the 13th century.
Plus, he was an avid follower
of Saint Francis of Assisi.
I knew I liked this guy for a reason!