Peace amidst the violence

Greetings Gentle Readers,

It is about 30 degrees right now. I'm going to wear a cap today when I go out!! I'm taking a brief break between doing my house tasks. I just spent 30 minutes in prayer in front of the Blessed Sacrament. I did a most beautiful litany for peace while in there. It was written by a brother from the other order here in town. It amazes me how the sirens of the police or the fire or the paramedic seem to clash with the chanting, singing and prayer of the chapel. No matter what time of day it is, the sirens are going strong, which makes all prayer and peacework so necessary. I remember at those times the Taize song that I learned on the college retreat in Malibu that we used as a response for the intercession prayers---woza, woza, umfundisi umkhlaba--Jesus come and save our world. It saddens me to read what is going on the world, in our country, in our cities and how we interact with people only when we need them or when they can do something for us. This seems to piggy back on the quotation found on a memorial for the Rwandan genocide victims. "If you had seen me as a human being, you would not have killed me." I think the key point is to see each other as people, as equally loved by God and equally having a right to love, peace, food, shelter and happiness. There is no caste system officially but it sure seems like the gigantic gap between the rich and the poor could prove otherwise.

Today, the other postulant, is being received at noon day office. I am so glad that she is here on this journey. As she has not been received into the community yet, she has not been given all the fun filled chores that need to be done. Last night, as I sat folding brochures, she came in and kept me company and offered to help. I told her to enjoy her time as a guest as the day would quickly come that she too would get the chores and then we could be maids together. Laughter is keeping me going as well as Taize cds and my african music. Thanks to the Chief for introducing me to South African singer Rebekah. Her music, even though I can't understand it at times, has a beat that seems to get into my soul. It has been a huge help to listen to music as I continue this transition.

Today is a better day. Today is another day and I'm grateful for the fact that each day brings something different and each thing proves to be a learning experience even if I can only recognize it in retrospect.

Not to make you all feel guilty, but emails would be greatly appreciated and or comments. Emails definitely help get me through the day --especially emails that dont give me more chores or appointments.

I am off to the doctor today. I am taking the car out by myself to go see a doctor regarding a really bad sinus headache and some dizziness that comes when I move my head too fast.

Thanks for all your prayers, love and support.

monk_1975

ps-- my 30th birthday is on tuesday!