The Cardinal and the Crook

James parked the car when they reached John’s apartment. Realizing that this could be their last time together, he turned to his brother and said, “It was an amazing weekend. You know . . . I’m not ready to let it end. What do you say I come in and have a beer with you?”

“Sounds like a perfect idea to me.”

John took two bottles of beer from the refrigerator, and they sat down. After taking a sip of his beer, James turned to his brother and shared what he was thinking. “Do you remember that movie that Father Pat loved to watch every Christmas . . . the one with Ji mmy Stewart?”

“You mean It ’s a Wonderful Life?”

“Yeah, that’s it. Well, I was thinking, this has been a wonderful life! Being raised by the kindest, gentlest man in the universe . . . having Father Jason as a big brother . . . and those nuns . . .”

“You’re right—it has been pretty special.”

“And I was able to share it with you—my twin brother . . . and most importantly, my best friend! Sometimes you don’t realize how good you have it until it’s too late. So, I want to make sure you know how much I love you.”

“I know that, Jimmy. I have always known that . . . and you should know how grateful I am for having you in my life.”

They spent the next few hours reminiscing. Recalling the various events in their lives brought both tears and laughter. When they finally said their goodbyes, James hugged his brother as if he would never let go.