One of the blessings of my life is the opportunity that I have had to live with people of various ages most of my life. Growing up, grandparents, great-grandparents, and older relatives and family friends were always included as part of our home structure. Our home was multigenerational by design. Although I did not fully appreciate it at the time, this aspect of my early years has had a significant impact on most of my life and on building my character. I am grateful for the experience.
In my 25+ years as a member of this monastic community, I have also been fortunate to have developed many relationships across our various age groups. I treasure the many lessons that I have learned from our elders--lessons of faith, lessons of fidelity, lessons of courage, strength and grace. I am indeed very fortunate in this way.
Here are some of the bits of wisdom that I have learned along the way:
- Life does not always have to move at a fast speed. There is a gentleness acquired in doing things slowly and thoughtfully.
- Plan ahead for life--learn a hobby, develop some leisure time activities, keep acquiring new skills. It is important to have skills in place for a happy and healthy future.
- Take time to listen. There is life wisdom to be learned in hearing stories from the past.
- Remain faithful to values. There are many things that can clutter my life, I need to remember the essentials.
- Be patient and loving--with others and with myself. Sometimes the hardest lesson is to remember to be patient with myself and not take myself so seriously.
What life lessons am I imparting on others today?
Sr. Catherine, OSB
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