Veteran Salesian, Rev. Fr. Alfred Marzo SDB giving the Goodnight Talk on the theme ‘No regrets, just obedience’ to the young Salesian during the Tri-monthly Recollection at the Provincial House, Guwahati.
On 22nd February 2025, the young Salesians gathered for their tri-monthly Recollection had the privilege of receiving wisdom (and a fair share of humor) from none other than the veteran Salesian, Rev. Fr. Alfred Marzo SDB. At the ripe young age of 89 and having lived as a Salesian for 74 years, Fr. Marzo had one key message: ‘No regrets, just obedience’, and a whole lot of stories!
Giving the much-anticipated Goodnight Talk, Fr. Marzo shared his adventures, misadventures, and divine interventions from his 73 years in India. With a sparkle in his eye and a mischievous smile, he declared, “I thank God for the gift of life. I can stand, I can speak…” He paused dramatically before adding, “I don’t know whether you could understand what I said!”—prompting a burst of laughter from the brothers.
Ever the storyteller, Fr. Marzo recounted the legendary conversation between Don Bosco and Fr. Victorio Alassonati, who had once asked Don Bosco what he would gain by joining him at the oratory. Don Bosco’s timeless response? “I will give you bread, plenty of work, and a piece of paradise.”
With an almost conspiratorial smile, Fr. Marzo turned to the young Salesians, “Well, I can confirm we get the bread—though sometimes just enough to keep us holy and hungry. The work? Ah, Don Bosco didn’t lie about that one! And as for paradise, well… I’ll let you know when I get there!”
The young Salesians erupted in laughter as they absorbed the deep Salesian wisdom hidden within the humor. Fr. Marzo, ever the optimist, implored them to aim for these three fundamental pillars of Salesian life: bread (enough to sustain, not to indulge!), work (never-ending, but fulfilling!), and heaven (the ultimate prize!).
As he wrapped up his talk, Fr. Marzo playfully added, “If you think you have it hard now, wait till you reach my age—then you’ll really appreciate the joy of obedience… and the luxury of a good afternoon nap!”
The first day of the tri-monthly recollection ended with young Salesians filled with inspiration—and a newfound appreciation for both their vocation and the art of aging with grace and humor. One thing was certain: Fr. Marzo may have aged, but his Salesian spirit was as young as ever!
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