As August draws to a close and our summer season leaves us, there are things that we may need to sort through and think about. These past months may have had several challenges that we didn’t expect; take some time to reflect on how you have faced them.
Have they caused you to become bitter, or creative?
Have you taken the time to be kind to another in need, smile at a stranger, or to serve others when you yourself were hurting?
Lot of questions, lots to think about…
Some of what I have experienced during this time has been the rich goodness of people. They need to be commended, thanked, and encouraged to be the examples that we need in today’s world. As people struggle, you and I, we each can continue to respond creatively, generously, and kindly to changes that are being asked of us. But how can we do this?
I believe that all those who have answered the question from last week’s Gospel “Who do you say that I am?”, as Peter did, know how to do it, for they have found Christ in their center. (“You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”) Although at times it may be a challenge, they allow the peace from within to flow out onto others.
With these questions and thoughts before us, I dare to share with you an old piece of writing that I found I had written back in 1979. I think it fits in with what I am trying to share here. May it in some way help with our new daily lives and give us the courage we need to continue on this journey with hope-filled hearts.
Sr. Theresita Donach
June 27, 1979, Howe Park, Spencer, MA
Peaceful, quiet, serene. Almost as if taken out of time.
Yet a gentle breeze brings life to a now rippling lake and
To the slender, awesome pines that surround and seem as to
protect It from anything that would mar its beauty.
So silent and peaceful is my being as I feel the warmth of the afternoon sun.
The blood running through my veins would seem to be the only sign of life,
And yet that is within. Does not all beauty, life come from within?
Is it not protected by an outer covering?
Could it be that in the hustle and bustle of daily life,
We can find peace, beauty, and serenity within ourselves.
For you God have placed it there.
One last thought from Herman Hesse:
“Within you there is a stillness and sanctuary to which you can retreat at any time and be yourself.”
Till next week,
Sister Theresita
