A Forest of Fools

Reflection Title: A Forest of Fools — Living Generously in a Grasping World
Theme: Radical Generosity, Humble Defiance, Urban Monasticism

"Freely you have received; freely give."
— Matthew 10:8

Today’s inspiration comes from Brother Juniper, one of St. Francis of Assisi’s closest companions—a man who embodied what it meant to be a “holy fool.” Known for giving away everything he had (and sometimes what wasn’t his to give), he once found himself in a pickle. Under obedience, his superior told him not to give away his outer robe anymore. Yet when someone in need crossed his path, he found a loophole. “My superior has told me under obedience not to give my clothing to anyone,” he said. “But if you pull it off my back, I certainly will not prevent you.”

What a cheeky saint. What a scandalous gospel.

Francis, with humour and affection, once said he wished for a whole forest of Junipers—disciples who would live with such self-forgetfulness, courage, and joy that the world would be disarmed by it.

Shame kills community. But radical generosity—the kind that says, “Take my coat if you need it more”—brings it back to life.

 Reflective Questions

• When was the last time I gave something away just because someone needed it?

• What would my life look like if I stopped guarding my time, my comfort, and my possessions?

• Do I live like I truly believe everything I have is a gift?

Bad Boy Monk’s Rule of Thumb

“If you can’t give it away, you don’t own it—it owns you.”

Brother Juniper teaches us the sacred art of letting go—not just of stuff, but of pride, reputation, and control. That’s the essence of the Tabelline Way. We aren’t trying to impress anyone. We’re just trying to imitate Christ—who, being in very nature God, made himself nothing.

“I wish I had a forest of Junipers.” — St. Francis of Assisi

Join the Conversation

Have you ever met a modern-day Juniper? Or maybe you’ve tried to live generously and it cost you something? Drop your story in the comments below—we’re all learning how to live freer, wilder, and more beautifully in Christ.

Let’s be the kind of people who leave cloaks on strangers’ backs, not just prayers in their inbox.

Cook. Serve. Pray. Repeat.
Even when it costs you your coat.