Wednesday, October 30, 2013

WARNING – CONSTRUCTION ZONE


As my housemates have previously so eloquently pointed out, a big part of this novitiate year has to do with building community.  This isn’t a game played with Legos or Erector Sets.  No, this is serious stuff, which at times requires first some individual deconstruction … of past behaviors, of ego, of the false self - things that prevent me from being and becoming the person God intends me to be.  As we each are being formed into the fullness of our own being, we are also building our parochial community.  We get to know each other.  We help each other grow.  We become family – not just in a local sense but also within the broader Dominican perspective.  In the “rebuilding” of our house, we’ve had to alter the architectural floor plan; we’ve had to expand our living room, add sofas and easy chairs.  Let me explain:

            When I came to the CDN on August 15, 2013, I really only knew my Dominican Sisters and Brothers of Sinsinawa.  I was so proud to have been in the delightful presence of Sr. Mary Ellen O’Grady, who spoke to us so passionately about the importance of collaboration.  I was so proud to have been part of the trip to Dominican University in River Forest, IL where Sr. Janet Welsh graced us with extraordinary hospitality and impeccable knowledge of the history of Dominicans in the United States.  I was so proud for my fellow novices to get the chance to meet Megan Graves, one of our Associates and a senior at DU. 

Others, like Honora Werner, Jim Barnett, Don Goergen, Maria Beesing, Joan Delaplane, David Wright, Ilia Delio, (among many others,) were for me simply the names of Dominican legends residing only in my mind and in books. (I know … Ilia Delio is Franciscan ... but that’s like a kissin’ cousin!)  Well, guess what?  They arrived at our front door, entered, kicked off their shoes and put up their feet in our living room!  They’ve become much more than legends – they’ve become my/our brothers and sisters!  We are kin.  And that, my friends, is pretty cool!  Pure grace.

            At a recent Reflection Day, we welcomed into our home and prayer space another legend and Dominican Sister extraordinaire ~ Annie Willits.  She came to us in voice, humor, wisdom and spirit through her taped “Coming Home” retreat series and a segment titled, “Thank You For Seeing Me”.  She was with us in a very palpable way.  We really could ‘see’ her.  And while she is a Dominican Sister of Sinsinawa, I have come to understand that in truth she is everyone’s sister.  As am I.  As are you.  We are family.  We are kin.  Together, we continue to expand our living space; we continue to build God's house!  

            

13 comments:

  1. Yes, indeed! That is one of the gifts of this year. I am so glad that you are all experiencing this gift of community.

    ReplyDelete
  2. What a beautiful way to sum up that we are all brothers and sisters.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Kathy, you have captured the Spirit of community life that keeps us all affirmed and challenged to live more authentically the Word of God. Unknown and Unnamed sisters and brothers enflame the best in us and smooth the rough edges as we rub together in faith. Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I love the way you put that, Mary Ann ... "...as we rub together in faith." Thank YOU!

      Delete
  4. Kath,
    Your reflection inspires my sense of mission. Thank you so much. Sending lots of blessings and love, Peggy Ryan, op

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. And you inspire mine, Peggy. Love and many prayers ...

      Delete
  5. Another beautiful image of community life...thank you for letting us virtually "share the couch" with you through these reflections. You are all in our prayers. Kelly M. Springfield Candidate

    ReplyDelete
  6. Beautiful, Kathy. Thank you for sharing and inviting us all to experience the family. Much love!

    ReplyDelete
  7. Thanks you for your wonderful article, Kathy. Know we continue to hold all of you in our hearts and prayers each day. Please continue to pray for us!
    Michelle Sherliza, OP - Chris McManus, OP - Watertown, MA
    Dominican Sisters of Peace

    ReplyDelete
  8. Kathy,
    I loved how "simply" you spoke of such a STRONG bond. Very touching! You are in my
    prayers!
    Donna, OPA Watertown, MA

    ReplyDelete
  9. Great commentary on our FAMILY! Thanks, so much.
    Charlene

    ReplyDelete