Live this moment...the fullness of God is here

Posted by on in God's Presence
  • Font size: Larger Smaller
  • Hits: 458
  • 0 Comments
  • Subscribe to this entry
  • Print

Lately, I have been working shifts in our community infirmary – a great learning experience, and, of course, a blessing! It's not often that I get to be with our elderly sisters, so I am enjoying this time with them.

My experience of working in an infirmary is probably similar to others. It has made me think of growing old, how some day I will be dependent on others to care for my basic, every day needs, and all the humiliations and frustrations that come with that. No one wants to lose capability and independence, to know that one's memory is unreliable, or that even though you know what you want, or what you're trying to say, others cannot understand.

The thing, though, about being with people at this stage of life, is you learn to live in the moment. Not much else matters. Oh, sure, there are tasks to be done in this work, but it's like you are in a new world order. There is only this elder's smile or tear, a whisper or plea to hear and decipher, the shaky hand reaching for a touch, a consoling grasp. You are drawn in, beyond yourself, to connect, to be fully present. And any time that happens, you are fully alive.

It always amazes me, to discover that, when people are most vulnerable, and seeming to be at their weakest, their presence, even their neediness are precious gifts to those of us who are often living for the next moment.

Live this moment...the fullness of God is here.

Sr. Cindy Lewans comes from Assiniboia, SK., the second of eight children, a traditional Catholic family nourished by parents Paul and Margaret. Cindy grew up with plenty of music and activity, (siblings!), a love for nature and the fine arts. She dreamed of a great life: performing onstage or having worldwide adventures! She attended St. Angela’s Academy for the last two years of high school, then set off to “make her mark” at university.

Cindy tried out different areas of study, but felt directionless, and wondered how people could commit to a path. She completed her B.A. and B.Ed. at the U of S, and taught in Saskatoon for the next couple of years.

In the fall of 1999, she moved into the Presentation of Mary Discernment House in Saskatoon, intent on growing in faith, community, and to discern her vocation in life. With the help of spiritual direction at the House, Cindy discerned that she was called to religious life, and to the Sisters of the Presentation of Mary. In 2000, she began her formation at the PM Novitiate, and made first vows in April 2004.

From 2004-2007, Cindy worked at John Paul Collegiate as a teacher and co-chaplain, and then took the Pastoral Studies program at Campion College. From 2009-2011, she worked as assistant to Campus Ministry at Campion College, and is presently taking a “year of renewal” in preparation for perpetual vows of religious life. She continues to enjoy nature, and the goodness and love of God in her family, community, and the people and events that are presented to her every day.
Author's recent posts

Comments

  • No comments made yet. Be the first to submit a comment

Leave your comment

Guest Sunday, 19 May 2013