Private Audience With the Holy Mother

After a long life of unselfish service, Father John O'Malley died and
went to heaven. St. Peter met him at the gate and said: "John, you did
such a wonderful job for us on earth, we'd like to do something
special for you. You name it; it's yours."

John thought for a moment and said: "I'd like a private audience with
the Holy Mother." St. Peter told him it would be arranged.

On the appointed day, St. Peter escorted John to the Holy Mother's
sanctuary. John went before Her, knelt, and said: "Holy Mother, I've
always looked to You for guidance, and You have granted me peace and
serenity through some difficult times. But I have one question that
has nagged me during my whole time on earth. In all the paintings that
were done of you, and in all the sculptures that were carved of you,
you always looked so sad. Why is that?"

Mary thought for a moment, pursing her lips. She said: "I always wanted a girl."