By Sister Mary Scholastica, O.C.D.
I’m not entirely sure how this reflection will flow. If anything, I can promise you it will be random! 😅
There are so many different thoughts that are coming to mind as I type. I’m reminded of a conversation I had with some sisters on the topic of unspoken expectations and how these can lead to judgments that unconsciously block us in being open to others. On three different occasions this past week, young people in their 20s sharing how tough it is for them to stay on the straight and narrow path and how conflicting messages are starting to blur the lines between good and evil. I’ve been fascinated with the brain but won’t even go there lest I lead you astray with misinformation. 😊 Had an experience with a sister who absolutely lit up like a Christmas tree when she discovered something that would provide her an opportunity to give expression to how God is leading her at this time. Realizing how much joy I felt for her and the joy I feel when others around me have moments like this. This is a gift, I think! Had a tough conversation that had I don’t know how many other clarifying conversations in its wake. Realized this experience provided me an opportunity to choose between responding in love or sticking to what I felt to be right. It’s been 50/50 so far. 🙂 Choosing to respond in love versus choosing to see my “rightness”. I’m thinking of next week and what it will entail and wondering why I’m dragging my feet on a few things. Well, I know…but struggling with the feeling of resistance when all I desire to be is receptive. 🙂 Thanking God for these kinds of things because it keeps me somewhat humble, knowing I can’t do it on my own. Thinking of the generosity of heart of the sisters I am blessed to live with. Thinking of all the prayers that are requested of us, so many who are suffering in our world, one in particular comes to mind right now. Thinking of the different people I met this week, some for the first time, and how in an instant they were sharing their life story and recognizing that somehow, we sisters are connected to God. One thanked me profusely for our conversation in which I was having long pauses and not because I was lost in prayer….but because my mind was going blank!! 🤣 😅 🙃 Amazing, isn’t it? God still uses us despite ourselves. 🙂 Miracle, really!
As I started to capture in writing the different insights and experiences I’ve had, the awareness of the lessons I’m learning or being taught by the good Lord is reminding me of how faithful God is, and how He is in it all. He’s in ALL OF IT. The graces never stop flowing. He is never not with us. We must remember this. I think these Carmelite musings help me more than anyone else. It’s a consistent reminder of God’s grace at work in my life.
On a lighter note, we’re hosting a group of seminarians tonight. A big part of our charism is to pray for our priests which includes those just beginning the journey. Pray for them. Pray for their discernment and perseverance. Our world certainly needs holy men and women in all states in life to be a light in today’s world. We’ll start with evening prayer together, dinner and some recreation Carmelite-style. They have no idea what’s in store for them. I have to say…we really know how to throw good parties. 🥳 People leave feeling known and loved, experiencing God’s presence, laughing a lot and just enjoying the blessings of family as that is what they become…a part of our family. God bless you! And thanks for reading…
