Well, it looks as though we are already starting to wrap up another year. I don’t know how we always get here so quickly but we do. Time has a funny way of continually moving forward, doesn’t it? So here we are, late November already, preparing to celebrate another Thanksgiving Day with our family, our chosen family, our friends, or quietly on our own. This day is a chance for us to reflect on what we are truly grateful for from the past, at the present, and in the opportunities the future holds. In this spirit, this week’s offering is a beautiful reflection by Sr. Julia Shideler written from her mission in East Timor as Thanksgiving 2011 approached. May it help us see that we, too, have “so much to give thanks for” in faith and love.
“So much to give thanks for… by Sr. Julia Shideler
As the feast of Thanksgiving draws near, I pause awhile to recall all the blessings that make our life in mission so precious. Just thinking about all that made it possible for me to simply be here is overwhelming. As our Sister Darlene recently asked, what can we give in response to such generous displays of love, lavished upon us over the years? The response that comes to me, however, is EVERYTHING, my entire life. The only thing I could ever offer, worthy of Love, is ALL that I am… day by day in little gestures of self-offering. It reminds me of Mother Mary Joseph’s challenge to become heroically generous… generous to the very last inch of my being. Striving for this will take nothing less than my whole life! […]
Looking back on my teaching experiences, I’m really grateful for having found something I value and enjoy so much. At times when I question my vocation (What am I really doing here?), my commitment to teaching became a beacon of light, helping me see through clouds of doubt. And as I continue along the journey, I find the faith I need. Love keeps on giving, pushing me forward and showing the way. I pray my students will experience this, too! […]
So, as Thanksgiving comes around, I invite you all to feast on the love, gratitude and blessings that fill our lives. I also thank each of you for your support, prayers and faith in God’s guidance. May you have a joyful feast and truly celebrate these wonders of life. And may the Advent of greater blessings fill you with hope and peace.”
HAPPY THANKSGIVING EVERYONE!
