For the past three years,I have come to look forward to and enjoy an event that for one day puts our city on the collective consciousness of our entire nation and then some –the Kentucky Derby. Beyond the history,pageantry,sport,and of course the hats,are the people. The Derby brings everyone together (this year all 164,000 of us) and turns a two-minute horse race into a two-week long celebration of something that is uniquely Kentucky. Each year I have met many interesting people at the Derby and some who have since become my friends from all walks of life.
This year being no exception,I met a gentleman whom I’m sure I will stay in contact with and who gave me permission to reprint a letter that he writes every year for your reading enjoyment. If you look carefully,you’ll notice how he carefully captured every Derby horse’s name in the letter. I thought it was very clever and wanted to share as we all remember the fond memories from this year’s Derby!
Dear Colleagues,
It’s Derby Weekend once again!
Just yesterday someone said they hoped they would soon WATCH ME GO home to prepare my annual Derby letter. You see for many years since I have taken some time each Derby Week to reflect on meaning of this season and determine the DECISIVE MOMENT to share with you some important messages about the weekend ahead.
After careful thought it occurred to me that perhaps Derby has TWICE THE APPEAL this year after an April full of rain. Everyone seems extra ready for a MIDNIGHT INTERLUDE or a weekend of fun events and celebrations. I do hope this is an opportunity for you to relax and spend some time with friends and family and maybe even party with your Aunt Mary and UNCLE MO.
Some of course will spend some time under the TWINSPIRED at Churchill Downs. If you go,beware of the ANIMAL KINGDOM known as the infield. Some who have gone there in the past have ended up with their PANTS ON FIRE or starring in a u-tube video acting like MUCHO MACHO MAN.
Perhaps you will get dressed up this weekend for a special party or dinner. If so remember that while a few of us can probably wear their old leisure suits or NEHRO jackets,trust me there are better outfits and great hats SOLDAT many stores all over the city.
For those of you who like to bet on the ponies remember that past experience has taught us it is important to not only choose a horse based on BRILLIANT SPEED but look out for the DERBY KITTEN who might be likely to crawl up the inside rail and COMMA TO THE TOP of the field by the finish line. As you celebrate at home,at a party or at the track,please be responsible and be careful as it is far better that you STAY THIRSTY than end up SHAKLEFORD in the county jail.
Finally,it is always good to remember to keep prayer a part of every day. If you DIALED IN St. Anthony he can help you if you get lost in the crowd. St. Jude will help if your bets are hopeless causes. St. Patrick will bring you luck. And SANTIVA will guide you to a trifecta every time.
With the approval of the MASTER OF HOUNDS and horses,I am glad to let you know that in order to get the festivities started all ARCHARCHARCHdiocesan agencies able to do so will close at 12:30 on Friday,Oaks Day 2011. Enjoy this celebration of sports and spring and fun in Kentucky.
Happy Derby to all.
Brain Reynolds
Chancellor
Archdiocese of Louisville
* Photo Credit –Dan Dry
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