ACCENTS MAGAZINE

Gratitude

2008-11-09T00:34:00.008-05:00

Written by Sr. Josefa -- Salvador Province

My Dear God,

Thanks for my congregation, family, work, course, and friends. I have many motives to give thanks. I love my life and I like to live and rejoice with the wonders that you have made. Oh God, how good it is to know that you are a passionate father to your children. Your mercy is great and gives us a chance to change. Thanks for my community and the people that I know well here in Itabaiana. Thanks for the opportunity you are giving me. I have much gratitude.

Love

2008-11-09T00:26:00.005-05:00

Written by Sr. Leonilda -- Salvador Province

Love is the result of sensibility.
Love is the result of confidence.
Love is the result of donation.
Love is the result of hope.

Love makes me alive.
Love makes me look at nature.
Love makes me sing.
Love makes me see and love Jesus.

Love is generous.
Love is gratitude.
Love is patience.
Love is simplicity.

If you aren't self-confident,
You can't know love.
Jesus' command is:
Love each other.

Encountering Life

2008-11-09T00:15:00.005-05:00

Written by Sr. Veritas Yang -- Taiwan Province

From the English intensive course last year, I learned how precious life and time are! At the beginning of the class, I was very nervous. I tried to tell myself, "Please cherish the opportunity that God gave me.” Actually, in the process of the class, I wanted to give up, but I was encouraged by Jennifer, who was very kind and loving in many ways. She gave me the courage to continue my English study.

What I was extreamly inspired by is that Jennifer contributed not only her energy, but also her time for me. She made me very excited to learn English. When I could speak some very easy sentences, I had strong desire to talk with her. Unfortunately, time was flying! And I did not have enough courage to face my English level, so I missed many chances.

When it is too late, you understand to cherish the people who you have encountered in your life, because opportunities are prepared for prepared people.

I should prepare for the present, and let people who appears in my life know how important they are for me! Because we still do not know waht tomorrow may bring.

In the end, this small article is dedicated to my dear teacher Jennifer. Through it, I want to say, “I miss you, Jennifer. I am looking forward to encountering you one day in the Philippines, again.”

Work While you Work. Play While you Play

2008-11-09T00:09:00.005-05:00

Written by Sr. Felicitas Wang -- Taiwan Province

The proverb “work while you work, play while you play” is well-known to every person. A proper and normal daily life signifies order, progress and cheerfulness. School life is more or less regular. Students have class hours at certain times of a day, and go to the playground after school. Most of the school children are healthy, cheerful and progressive, because they are trained according to their regulated daily program. Nowadays, businessmen and officials also have office hours and resort to some kinds of recreation after work.

In short, the proverb “work while you work, play while you play” should be strictly observed by anyone who wishes to make one's life pleasant, efficient and successful. When we do something, we should not think or worry about anything else. When our mind is concentrated on one particular thing, it will surely make good results. Through the constant repetition of a daily program, we can go on with our regular work without any difficulties. Moreover, one can’t work all day long. Play is as necessary to everybody as work. Play can make you fresh and cheerful so that you may not be sick of your work.

The proverb “work while you work, play while you play” is a good motto for everybody.

What is Most Important for You?

2008-11-09T00:02:00.007-05:00

Written by Zhan Jing Ye - Taiwan Province

Nothing is as important as a willing heart. Thereupon, you can get anything if you hope. Maybe you consume all your life looking after parents. Perhaps you want to get fame or wealth. On the other hand, you also can seek truth where it is. Maybe someone is trying to write a touching poem. Indeed, everyone is unique; you chose from the possibilities you have.

But, if we choose to follow Jesus, does this mean we cannot love others at all? No, I do not think so. In my opinion, we love all, our family, friends and so on, at the same time; we love the Lord, our God. Loving Jesus is ranked first, and most important.

We should give our regards to our family members and friends when we are serving. Aim at telling them about our happiness, peace and so on. When we do this, we become known as a lively devotee, a normal human feeling person. In front of everybody, we are a sign of the reigning God. So loving others does not diminish our love for Jesus. Indeed, “There is nothing in all creation that will ever be able to separate us from the love of God which is ours through Christ Jesus our Lord!”(Rom.8:39)

Who Am I?

2008-11-08T23:55:00.004-05:00

Written by Sr. Faustina Tan -- Taiwan Province

I was born on June 20, 1982. It was Autumn when I was born, so my parents gave me the name “Qiu Ying". Qiu Ying means Autumn; it is a nice name, and because of that, I won't forget the day I was born. I also like my name and my birth-date because autumn is my favorite season.

I was born in China and my parents are both Chinese, which of course makes me purely Chinese. My parents are both very kind and tender. They taught me many things about life. I learned and understood a lot from them.

Life is full of difficulties and happiness. I know clearly that I can't tell my future, but I believe that if I treasure each precious moment, happiness will come to me, and difficulties will vanish in my life. Even if the difficulties appear again, I will have enough power to face them because I believe in God. I get the grace and peace from Him.

I don't like to study, so I quit when I was in high school, but God's plan or will are always different from ours. Since I believe that it is His will for me to study, I continued my studies until I finished high school.

I like to play the piano but I can't. I also like to sing, but I don't know how to apply the voice that God gave me. Right now, I have a good opportunity to study English, so I always remind myself to treasure the temporary time, by writing, reading and listening which will help me improve my English skills.

Live

2008-11-08T23:40:00.007-05:00

By Sr. Lucimar -- Salvador Province (Living in Namibia)

To live is to need to be on artist.
To live is to need be a juggler.
To live is to create and renew all things to see value.
To live is to remove a magic word from inside your soul every day.
It is to plant in each tree that does not have life, in each branch and each person.
To live is to feel fear, pain, happiness, disappointment and hope, that all passes and to be renewed differently.

To live is to suffer silently, to shout for all, to cry, to be a victim, hero, bandit, but never be destroyed.

To live is to feel your limit, frankness, incapacity and to feel less than an ant, but never compare yourself to her.

To live is to perceive that every day the sun is born differently, there is forever a flower in each daybreak. It is to feel that forever has one life to live.

To live is to feel that a forever friend is at your side, sometimes visible, sometimes invisible, a friend that does all, but that sometimes gives you permission to do all things good and bad. A person who forever respects your decisions and will be with you forever despite the consequence.

To live is to amplify life, like the birds, flowers, like the childrem and like animals. To learn to run, to play. But to learn to defend like a thorn and never leave life.

To LIVE IS TO BE YOU!!!

What Does “BUSY” Mean for Me?

2008-09-27T14:48:00.011-04:00

Written by Anita Hu -- Taiwan Province (Manila)

During the past five years, for my job and for my life as a religious person, I very easily became a busy girl. In this busy period, I became tired and began to find rest in God. I usually went to church and sat silently as long as possible; even wept. I tried to listen to God, but I ususally heard nothing. God knew what I needed, because when I left the chapel, I felt I had enough energy and confidence to face the coming challenges. I was not afraid and I knew the love of Jesus would besiege me. That was a wonderful time. I heard Jesus say, Come to me.

In the past few months, I have had a special experience with time. It has made me reflect on what and who my busy life is for. Because I am living a religious life now, not only the chapel is always open for me, but also Jesus Christ always waits for me silently. Although I rarely went to worship, I listened to Him. I tried my best to do much more. It seems that it is very easy to lose my temper. I thought when I served others and worked for them, I would be much happier, but it isn't always this way. “What's wrong with me now? I am working and serving others with all my strength. I lost myself, why?” I asked myself.

Then one day, I thought about the meaning of“BUSY. B-U-S-Y: to Be Used Successfully by Yawah. Did I put my all in God's hand? Did I find God among my neighbors? Am I an instrument in which God is pleased? When reality does not match my expectation, I am disappointed and become frustrated with others.

Thanks to my sisters. I learned God's will from them. In spite of my business, if I can’t meet God in the busy life, my life will have no significance.

Loving Everything You Choose

2008-09-27T14:37:00.009-04:00

Written by Zhan Jing Ye -- Taiwan Province (Manila)

If I were a young mother, and would have a baby, lovely. Every day my life would include looking after my child carefully, doing a lot of work -- cleaning, going shopping, and cooking. Waiting for my husband, I would prepare a delicious meal, as he would have worked hard for the family. Though our life were full of toil, we would be happy and content.

I think that I would love my baby, like myself and love my husband, too; perhaps more than our child and I. On fine days, we would take walks outside, and go to the park. Sometimes, we would see our parents together.

Maybe my like would be like my description, if I were married. However, I chose to follow Jesus, living a single life. He called me from thousands of people. Therefore, I gave up many possibilities and sought for hisfootprints.

I left my hometown, and went to the city. Later, I left my mother country again. At last, I came to the Philippines . With the Lord's help, I had a good trip. When I looked at my previous life, the past is gone and seems static. Now, I am far from my family members and friends; sometimes it seems as if I have nothing.

But, I love my life in the present, poor as it is. In fact, you are the richest when you are the poorest. I suppose, even in a poor house, you may perhaps have some pleasant, thrilling, glorious hours, as long as your heart and soul are rich. It is equally, that the Lord gives to everyone.

The setting sun is reflected from the windows of the almshouse as brightly as from the rich man's abode; the snow melts before its door as early in the spring. I do not see but a quiet mind may live as contentedly there, and have as cheering thought, as in a palace.

Do not receive and own more things, whether clothes or friends. You have all which is enough now for yourself. Turn the old, return to them. You will find you are a rich person. To know the Lord, is a beginning of wisdom. He can change your life and mind. Follow him, please! Believing in and depending on him and never return.

What Makes a Person Truly Happy?

2008-09-27T13:40:00.009-04:00

Written by Stephanie Shi -- Taiwan Province (Manila)

I realized that I was a happy girl while I was growing up. Why do I say this? It is because I have a great father and a good, loving mother. They give me a truly warm family. When I look back on my childhood, it was very happy. My parents not only gave me so much love, but they also gave me enough freedom to let me choose everything that I liked, even though sometimes I chose something that was wrong. Whenever it happened, they just told me to decide carefully, and then I would change. Thanks to my parents’attitude, I felt enough courage to choose my way of life in the future, and pursue my dreams.

Now, I am already grown-up. I am not a little girl anymore. Before I met Jesus Christ in my life, I felt that the happiness I had was not enough. Sometimes I felt tired, worried or bored. During those times, I asked myself these questions,“Who can help me? Who is my strength? Who will change my life?” When I met the Lord Jesus Christ, from that time on, I discovered the truth, the life, and the path. So my whole life was changed by Him, including my values, my likes, and my dreams.

Today, when I am close to nature, I feel truly happy, because nature is so great and beautiful. When I see animals, I feel truly happy, because all of the animals were created by the Lord. Every time I meet poor people, I want to help them, and let them know and feel that I care for them and love them. I know the poor are examples of Jesus; all of them are my brothers and sisters. When I decided to follow Jesus, I felt truly happy, because He is my Lord and my Savior.

Stephanie Shi, arrived in Manila in March. She was baptized only a few years ago.

The Taxidriver and the Snake

2008-08-27T07:14:00.003-04:00

Written by Sr. Leonilda -- Salvador Province

Yesterday, when I was traveling from Salvador to Aracaju, I saw a very beautiful scene on the road. I was in the bus when it stopped on the road. The passenger was curious and asked, "Why did the bus stop on the road?" On the road, there was a worried taxidriver. He wanted to protect a beautiful snake. It was a big snake covering the entire road. The taxidriver stopped every car on the road to protect the snake and help it cross in safety. The passengers in the bus were very emotional and applauded the taxidriver.

I think it's very important to protect animals because they are creatures of God. We need to respect animals, always.

The Lord Is With Me Forever!

2008-08-27T06:29:00.008-04:00

Written by Sr. Marivalda -- Salvador Province

The Lord is with me in joy,
That overflows my being!
He cultivates in me, new hope!

The Lord is with me in the hope
That animates my life!
So that I can find renewed enthusiasm!

The Lord is with me in faith,
It guides and reappoints
To live with freedom and lightness!

The Lord is with me in emptiness,
When it is impossible to believe
So I can recognize your presence in other beings!

The Lord is with me in silence
I am silent so the other can be.
He is for me and I am involved in His presence!

The Lord is with me in conflicts
Releasing me from my prejudices
So I see other sisters with renewed eyes!

The Lord is with me in suffering
as my heart matures
So that I am facing Him as I am,
Without fear and with confidence!

Our Sacred Story: My Experience at St. Bonaventure University

2008-08-23T11:25:00.012-04:00

Written by Sr. Roseli -- Salvador Province (Presently studying in the United States)

When I was at St. Bonaventure University, I celebrated our Sacred Story. This was a unique experience. I felt many different emotions at the same time: Joy, Fear, Hope, Gratitude, Poverty, Patience, Faith and Love.

Sometimes I wanted to speak with our sisters, but I could not, because of the poverty of language. I felt joy in celebrating our Sacred Story together; living and feeling our internationality. I felt fear of not being able to learn our common language, because sometimes I didn't understand anything and I didn't have patience with myself. But all the time I felt that the sisters were very patient with me.

I felt gratitude for this rich opportunity of knowing more about the beginning of our Story and that Jesus showed me the way to Religious Life in this Congregation.

I felt love for our Congregation and our mission when I listened to the Sacred Stories in my heart. I felt faith that we'll grow in our mission, because all the Sisters of different countries have the same missionary vision. We want to improve our mission, looking to the testimony of the our co-founders.

When we had time to reflect about Mother Immaculata and how she understood her work in the Congregation's life, I remembered my story and some experiences that I lived during my novitiate. I think Mother Immaculata's illness and healing made her more sensitive with others people and it made her understand the mission of Jesus in her life.

We had the opportunity to talk about our missionary call and what helped us respond to the call. I talked with Sister Clare about my experience and she talked to me about hers.

I learned that we are different, but we have many things in common. Thank you, God! Thank you dears sisters for welcoming and helping me.

My Missionary Experience

2008-08-23T11:10:00.009-04:00

Written by Sr. Rosivonete -- Salvador Province

In 1998, I lived in Barra City in Bahia. Barra City is larger than Itabuna City. I worked in "Mab's Community" -- a very poor location and the biggest in the city of Barra.

At Christmas time, the most important celebration of the year, after mass, I baptized a baby. The baby was one year and nine months old; she was dying. The christening was sadder than a wake. I felt so much compassion for the people, principally the baby's parents.

I cried during that reality. The worst part was that the baby was dying of malnutrition. After four days, the baby died.

Magnificat

2008-08-23T11:03:00.019-04:00

Written by Sr. Edilene -- Salvador Province

My soul glorifies the Lord.
My heart rejoices in God my savior.
The Lord has made wonders in my life.
My heart sings praise to you.
Oh! Father you are holy.
You are my savior,
my rock, my support.
You make me free.
You look at me, a poor servant, with affection.
All people need to know and adore you.
Everyday I feel your strong presence in my heart.
You make me happy and comfortable.
Your power transformed my life.
Good things, I have achieved.
For me, you are my everything.
Your name is holy,
that's why I sing praise to you.
Your name is mercy and compassion.
Dear Father, you have carried me in your arms during difficult times.
You are just and delicate.
You raise up the poor.
You are my help. Without you, I am nothing.
You are the beginning and the end.
My soul glorifies you my God.
Your greatness is without end.
My spirit rejoices in you.
You are special for me, Oh God!
Thanks for your presence in my life.

A Most Surprising Experience

2008-08-23T10:56:00.010-04:00

Written by Sr. Pureza -- Salvador Province

I have had many surprising experiences in my life, but the most surprising experience was the Intensive English Course.

The first reason was the interest of the Congregation and the province to help the sisters increase our internationality. English will help the Congregation to have better communication in the SMIC mission.

The second reason was that I received an invitation to participate in this course. I felt very happy!

The third reason was my growth. I feel that I have improved in different ways. Now, I learn with more facility. I understand faster than two years ago. I listen better now than last year.

To participate in the third stage of this course was very important for me. I consider it a special grace from God. I thank the congregation for this most surprising opportunity in my life. This helped to broaden my knowledge and accomplish God's mission for me.

A Frightening Experience

2008-08-23T10:43:00.012-04:00

Written by Sr. Silvia -- Salvador Province

During the time I lived in the USA, I had some frightening experiences, but one of them became the most frightening experience I have ever had in my life.

It happened when I was learning how to drive. At that time, I felt very, very insecure. I felt more insecure than a child when she is taking her first steps.

One day, I felt a little more confident. So, I took the car and drove from Harrison to Paterson. On the way, I got lost. On that day, Route 21 seemed to be the busiest road in the world. Everyone was speeding past me and my heart started beating faster and faster. I got thirsty and very lonely. Then, I stopped near a school and tried to ask for directions, but I was nervous because my English was not so good. It was weaker than it is now.

Fortunately, I met a nice Polish woman who helped me by showing the way. I followed the directions she gave me and suddenly I saw a very familiar church. When I entered, one of our sisters was there. I breathed a sigh of relief. She nicely offered me some water and helped me to find my way home.

After that, everything was fine, but I will never forget my most frightening experience of my life, so far.

In 1961

2008-08-23T10:36:00.010-04:00

Written by Sr. Nelísia -- Salvador Province

The most surprising event that happened in my life ocurred in 1961. My brother Celso was the oldest brother in my family. One day he went to Sao Paulo. Sadness lived in my heart. I was crying everyday because I had no communication with my brother. We had no phone or computer to communicate with my brother.

After three months on a beautiful night, without news of him, my brother knocked on the door. It was midnight. My parents, brothers and me woke up frightened. We had the biggest surprise of our lives. My brother had returned and my family rejoiced.

My Friend Mel

2008-08-23T10:31:00.010-04:00

Written by Sr. Lúcia -- Salvador Province

In my childhood I met Mel at a party. Mel was three years older than me. We lived next to each other. My apartment was taller than Mel's apartment. We enjoyed riding bicycles, jumping rope, playing with dolls and reading amusing books. But, we liked to play in the elevator by going up and down, up and down. One day, we got stuck in the elevator for three hours. Our parents were worried. They scolded us. It was the funnest experience I had with my best friend Mel. Mel moved to Santa Catarina. I felt much sadness when she moved and I cried because we were good friends. Three years later, Mel died in an accident. I was sad to hear she died. I wept and prayed for her.

I Am Leonilda Cypriano

2008-08-23T10:19:00.003-04:00

Written by Sr. Leonilda -- Salvador Province

I lived the best time of my life when I was young. I was younger than most of my friends and when I was 15 years old, I met the greatest and truest love; I met Jesus. Jesus helped me to choose the best way, a better way than I had before. After I met Jeesus, I discovered a new way to live, to walk, to pray. I was happier than I had been before, but I had many difficulties. My friends didn't understand me. I love my friends, but the love for Jesus is more important. Thank you my Jesus. I will love you always.

A Frightening Experience

2008-08-17T22:13:00.005-04:00

Written by Sr. Pacis -- Salvador Province

I had been in the congregation two years when I went to Santa Eufrasia School in Barra City - Bahia. I traveled by bus until Santa Rita City and then I traveled by boat for twelve hours up the Sao Francisco River. The small boat was the biggest boat in Santa Rita. In the boat, there were four men and eight women; the river was full! It was the most beautiful river in the region. The boat didn't have a bathroom, so the boat stopped in a strange place with many trees and reeds. We got off,looking for a bathroom. But instead, we had to use the reeds.

Suddenly, I saw a big snake. I cried out, "Look out! Snake! Help!"

I ran back to the boat, scared and nervous, even though the snake had disappeared. We continued the trip to Barra City and I stayed in that community for three years. Today, I'm still afraid of snakes! I will never forget my most frightening experience.

Two Poems

2008-08-17T22:02:00.009-04:00

Without My God, I Don't Know How to Live
Written by Sr. Nelísia -- Salvador Province

How nice to always be with You
We two are much better
How don't I know how to pray?
I keep in silence only.

I only want your Love
That gives brilliance to my life.
This is the way You look at me
Your manner gives me strength to live.

Opposition and Overcoming
Written by Sr. Nelísia -- Salvador Province

Humility overcomes pride.
Joy overcomes sadness.
Union overcomes fear.

Violence kills and Solidarity raises life.
Love opens ways through the desert.
Dreams come true.

Before dawn breaks, the darkness of the night
Brings a new day.
The earth makes the seeds spring up.
The presence of God overcomes lonliness.

The eagle's flight overcomes distances
And discovers new horizons.
The sailor overcomes the bravery of the sea.
The champion celebrates victory.
The faithful praise God.

The Presence of God

2008-08-17T21:57:00.011-04:00

Written by Sr. Rosivonete -- Salvador Province

Thank you my great God
You are the love of my life
I am giving all my being.

Your face in the world
You are in the sun moon, stars, sky
In all creation.

You are in the poor
In the smile of dear children
In the people's fight.

Lord

2008-08-17T21:42:00.008-04:00

Written by Sr. Lúcia -- Salvador Province

Thanks for your wonder!
You live in the heights of the sky
Prayer is your kindness
The sunrise is the morning
Everyday I think
Uncasp the flowers and grass
The roses are in bloom
The birds singing in the trees
The sun-brightened sky
The wind blowing the leaves
The Lord looks wonderful
The children playing peacefully.

SHINING STARS IN SALVADOR

2008-07-21T13:20:00.008-04:00

An enthusiastic group of committed sisters are excelling in their English! Congratulations on a fruitful Intensive English Course III!

IMAGINATION & ART IN SALVADOR

2008-07-20T21:06:00.005-04:00

The sisters in Salvador used their wild imaginations and the inspiration of Monica Stewart's art, to create stories of their own during the English Intensive Course, 2008 at Dom Amando Convent. Take a look at their creations.

L S H F

2008-07-20T21:04:00.003-04:00

Written by Sr. Silvia -- Salvador Province

They lived on a mysterious mountain
In a land dwelt in by the gods of beauty
A garden where all colors came from.

Lightness, Sweetness, Harmony and Freedom
Dreamed about making the world their dwelling place.

All gods helped them dance together
And drops of lightness, sweetness, harmony and freedom
Spread from place to place.

The world became a sanctuary
Where love could flow from heart to heart.

THE LADIES

2008-07-20T17:31:00.005-04:00

Written by Sr. Marta, Sr. Marcia, Sr. Edilene and Sr. Lúcia -- Salvador Province

The ladies lived in different countries. The blue-dress woamn was Japanese. The yellow-dress woman was Australian Aboriginal and the white-dress woman was African. These women represented Earth, Water, Fire and Sun. They were dancing in the mountains of the Philippines.

The women were celebrating their lives, diverse cultures and praising God. The women returned, each one to their own country, with cultural riches.

THE FOUR YOUNG FRIENDS

2008-07-20T17:19:00.004-04:00

Written by Sr. Leonilda, Sr. Pureza, Sr. Rosivonete, Sr. Nelisia and Sr. Pacis

Once upon a time four lady students liked to dance at the University in Aracaju. They were from Brazil, Philippines, Angola and Mexico. Their names were Sheila, Thais, Dayane and Karen. They were friends and discovered their talents and danced very well. They danced together at the birthday and Christmas party, of their families. They were celebrating life. They praised God on this special day.

My Lord, My Refuge

2008-07-20T10:54:00.006-04:00

Written by Maria Marta Milanez -- Salvador Province

And you in silence, wait Lord. Hear my voice.
Keep in perfect peace, my heart.
Lord, they come to you in distress and I, in search of you.
O Lord, I have taken refuge in you day and night.
O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever.
For you have been my refuge.
On my bed, I remember you, because you are my help.
In you, O Lord, I have taken refuge and you are always with me.
Amen

The Arrival of the Cross

2008-07-20T10:38:00.005-04:00

Written by Sr. Maria Marta Milanez -- Salvador Province

The Cross of Sao Damiao arrived at the community in the Hospital of Sao Jose. On May 21, 2008, each sister at the hospital in Sao Jose in Aracaju, Sergipe had a cross of San Damiano in their hand, in commemoration of 800 years of Fransciscanism in Brazil.

The sisters of the congregation offered good advice to bring a cross and the Holy Bible to our community in the form of a procession. Aftr the procession, the sisters and employees of the hospital went for a walk around the chapel and hospital. With a lot of love, the sisters told the story of the San Damiano cross.

The celebration was beautiful. It reminded us of the way Saint Francis was surprised when he prayed infront of the crucifix and Christ said to him, "Build my church, brother." Sain Francis faced many difficulties. But like Saint Francis, I have Christ in my heart to overcome the turbulence of life. With a lot of faith and steadiness of the Spirit, the Lord relives in us, teh dream of Saint Francis and Clara of Assisi.

My Experience with Senior Sisters

2008-07-09T10:02:00.007-04:00

Written by Sr. Maria Lúcia Dias Romualdo -- Salvador Province

On 16 March 2008, I arrived in Itabaiana to collaborate with Our Lady of Lourdes Community where there are 8 dependent Senior Sisters; I intended to stay there until 29 June 2008.

It was a good experience! I could feel strong compassion, watching out for their necessities and the senior Sisters showed me their fragility, due to their age.

One thing attracted my attention! We are not prepared to get old. "The Third Age" or aging requires acceptance of our own limitations and letting God bless us. The “Third Age” is a process of transcendence, thanks, prayer and acceptance says St. Paul in 2 Corinthians 12: 9b-10.

Thank God for this opportunity to notice how I have to work on myself to be prepared for the “Third Age" -- becoming a better person, without resentment and sorrow; accepting my own limitations.

To the sisters of Betânia Community, my thanks for everything -- for welcoming me and for living together in sisterhood. I praise God for everything.

Grace and Blessings.

Stones in My Way

2008-06-23T09:41:00.000-04:00

Written by Sr. Rúbia Maria Almeida – Belém Province
Photo from Quixadá City -- CE

I live in Quixadá, a little city in the Northeast of Brazil, in the heart of Sertão, in the state of Ceará – a very typical city. Here, the sun is very intense almost the entire year round. The streets of small trade are always full of people, cars, motorcycles, bikes and donkey carts; it’s very noisy. This is the daily life of the city.

But, there is something very singular about this distant place – the stones. The city is surrounded by gigantic stones. When I look at their surfaces, I believe in the words of people older than the city; they say that millions of years ago this place was a sea.

I often contemplate the stones and easily see shapes of distorted faces and animals – they have beauty and mystery.

In this region of Brazil, there is a shortage of water. During many months of the year, the landscape is gray, without green. So, during this period, the stones hold the greatest beauty of the region. But for sure, when the rain comes and green arises, the landscape fascinates -- there is harmony between the green, the blue sky and the stones. I adore these stones.

There are stones in my way, and they have a voice inside me.

Service to the Poor

2008-06-23T09:08:00.003-04:00

Written by Silvia Corado do Amaral - Salvador Province
Photo from mission in Piauí, Salvador Province

They are far from progress.
They are forgotten by many.
They are there.

They live a simple life.
They cultivate strong values.
They teach us love.

They ask for nothing.
Their voice is very quiet.
We need to be reverent.

In the midst of those people
Our Sisters are
To be a compassionate presence,
Build community
And promote life in all its ways!

Our service to the poor
Is a way to see God in the world
And make Him visible to all.

Evangelizing with Mother Mary in São José Hospital

2008-06-22T19:35:00.005-04:00

Written by Sr. Maria da Pureza Nunes -- Salvador Province

The month of May in Brazil is dedicated to Mother Mary. In the São José Hospital, the image of the Mother Mary is welcomes all who enter. Employees participate in celebrations during the month of May -- praying, singing, reflecting on the gospels and sharing the messages with each other. The 31st of May closes the pilgrimage with a reflection of the gospel in Saint John 2:1-12 -- the first miracle of Jesus.

The heart of the Mother Mary fills the world with faith, hope and peace. She is the daughter of God and her son, Jesus.

Who Loves us More? Jesus Christ or God

2008-06-22T16:25:00.012-04:00

Written by Sr. Nelísia Rodrigues de Jesus -- Salvador Province

God created the world, and Jesus Christ came the world to save us!
God created humans, and Jesus Christ changed humans to save us!

God created the water to kill our thirst, and Jesus Christ is the water of life!
God created the rain, the rain to water the soil, the bread cames from the soil.
And Jesus Christ is the bread of life to feed us!

God created the night and day, Jesus Christ is the sum of Jusice to enlight us!
God created all the trees of the world, and Jesus Christ is the tree of life!!!!

God is Love and Jesus Christ taught us to love!
God made a throne in heaven, Jesus Christ is seated at the right of the God to pray for us!!!!
God loves and forgive us, and Jesus Christ spilled his blood to forgive our sins.

God adopted us as his children,and Jesus Christ is the way that brings us to the Father!!
God and Jesus Christ are the same person that save and guide us.
They Are the Way, the Truth and the Life.

To Sister Mathilda (On the night after her death)

2008-06-22T16:22:00.006-04:00

Written by Sr. Jane M. Abeln -- U.S. Province

Your chapel chair sits empty.
This throne for your crippled spine
will not again witness
your walker’s solemn procession.

In the twilight of last evening,
your soul warmed in God’s embrace,
His Breast bright beyond a gray horizon.
But our night swam in blindness.

Against my tears, my Sister begs joyful praise
because you passed in peace,
with Sisters surrounding you. But
my heart is still. It cannot sing.

Dear Sister, I picture you as in life:
your arms extended like twisted branches
toward His Light, your round smooth face
mirror to His Sun as your cane tapped toward Him.

After your hundred-thousand painful steps
on that long Way of the Cross,
who can question your readiness
for the Final Station?

Not question. . . .It’s just that
I’m lonely in this chapel
where I’ll never see you again.
I’d come to think you’d always be here
even though you, every day,
have been waiting for this one night.

*Sr. Mathilda Busch became ill right after her
first profession, and until her death on Jan. 7, 1971,
she spent most of every day in a pew in the side chapel
of Immaculate Conception convent, also making the
Way of the Cross there.

My Family

2008-06-22T16:18:00.003-04:00

Written by Theresa Su -- Taiwan Province

There are three people in my family -- my father, younger brother and I. My mother got sick when I was 18. After a year, she passed away because of cancer. I live in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Usually, there is nobody at home, because we all work in different places. My father is a worker; he works for a sand-pit company in northern Taiwan. My younger brother works for an electrical company, and I, now, am a pre-novice and live in Manila, Philippines. Before I came to Manila, we often got together in my grandmother's house in Taipei, Taiwan.

When I was a child, we did not have a house of our own, so we kept on moving. Although we are not rich, we did not feel that we lacked something in our life. When I grew up, I started to understand the great pressure my parents felt.

All of us have many friends. We like to take our friends to our home or travel with them.
My father likes drinking and smoking, but I do not like this behavior, so I try to stop him, but it seems impossible, because he just says, Many people get sick and die quickly after they quit smoking.”

My younger brother always fought with me when we were young, but now, we do not fight anymore. However, we seldom talk to each other, so I do not know what he is thinking about.

In my memory, my mother always got up very early to cook, clean and work. She was very busy and not really happy. I thought maybe this was the reason why she got cancer. However, I know she is happy where she is now, and I know she is watching over me.

Make a Heaven for You

2008-06-22T16:16:00.005-04:00

Written by Sr. Laetitia Li - Taiwan Province

Everyone in the world has hobbies. Some like traveling and some are interested in cooking. I don't like spending a long time making food; I think it is a waste of my time. I prefer reading and sewing as compared to cooking. I don't like to work in the kitchen at all. However, since I am assigned to Sr. Alice, the one in charge of our kitchen, I am beginning to enjoy making refreshments for our Sisters.

We thoroughly clean our house every Friday afternoon. We spend a lot of time doing it, and every sister works hard doing her assigned work，so that our house is always clean and always feels comfortable. On that same day，Sr. Alice serves different kinds of snacks to thank and reward our lovely and efficient sisters. I help Sr. Alice to make the dessert. Sometimes，Sr. Christina offers us some good ideas or recipes, so that we can prepare many delicious snacks of which most of us haven't made before.

I enjoy doing it and I am happy. Although, we spend more than two hours preparing the snacks every time, I feel fulfilled especially seeing the finished products and seeing how the Sisters enjoy them. My feeling is the same as that of a craftsman watching his great art; I feel excitement and satisfaction.

I feel the happiest and the most fulfilled each time, when I look at my Sisters eating the savory and tasty desserts made by me, with a big smile on their faces and hearing them say, "Wow! They are very delicious, I like eating them.”

Sometimes when I am preparing the refreshments, some Sisters ask me, "Sister Laetitia，are you preparing the dessert for us again ? What kind of tasty snack are you going to make today?” I reply proudly, "It’s a very very delicious snack that you have never tasted before.”

Yes, I can do this kind of work to serve my sisters and make them happy. I want them to experience love and service in our big community. When God called us, we left our families and country and came here. Here we are a family; we share God’s love with each other in this new family. There is a saying which states, The secret to a happy life is love, and to live that love every day. I can make my sisters happy by doing small things whole-heartedly.

Serving my Sisters by preparing dessert for them, helps me learn many things. It enriches my life and opens my heart to a lot of things. It’s a pleasure to serve my sisters.

The happiest thing I have experienced is how to make others happy. I will further learn to make more delicious refreshments for my sisters.

You are welcome to come to our community in the Philippines. I will serve you the best dessert and food. You'll feel as if you're in heaven!

That is my simple family with simple stories of our simple lives.

Being Evoked

2008-06-22T16:14:00.004-04:00

Written by Sr. Asteria Zhang - Taiwan Province

“English” plays a crucial role in an international congregation. The longer I stay in this community, the more significant English is, I realize. As the saying goes, “Easier said than done.” Although I am aware of it very often, taking action is very difficult.

On the 19th of May, Sr. Dilecta told us that every one of us has responsibility to contribute to the Congregation's online magazine, Accents. It is more an opportunity than responsibility. At that very moment, I woke up to the importance of continuously studying English, never ceasing as a person who lives a consecrated life in an international congregation.

At that very moment, I enjoyed being evoked. It is just like when I am taking medication, I am distracted from it by awareness. After a while, I realize that I should come back to the present, enjoy the present, at that time. I say cheerfully, “Present time, wonderful time.”

Finally, I would like to write a HAUKU to end:

Past, Present, Future,
How wonderful this moment,
Create miracle.

Rejoicing in Hope. Patient in Tribulation

2008-06-22T16:09:00.005-04:00

Written by Sr. Zhan Jing Ye - Taiwan Province

At the moment, my feet are standing on alien land. My face is facing many differnet-colored people. My heart feels the different people and cultures. Though we have not met each other before, oddly enough, we are fraternal. Can you tell me why?

In fact, wherever you are, and whoever you may be, there is one way in which you and I are alike, at this time, and in all moments of our existence. We are not at rest; we are on a journey which is the purpose our life. Our hearts and souls are more similar than we may think: the same belief, the same dulcet voice, the same beautiful dream, and the same warm-heartedness.

I have always believed each human being is born as something new, something that never existed before. Everything is lovely with God's blessings, whether you can feel it or not. The Lord is with you at all times, even if you are in trouble, lost and sad, one following another. W

Weep no more, nor sigh, nor groan. Sorrow calls no time that's gone. If only you pray to him, He will grant your need immediately, because God guards and waits for you day and night. Most people fear death, but death itself makes life more loving. Men come closest to their true selves in the sober moments of life, under the shadows of sorrow and loss. Belief can make our life more meaningful.

The Lord is not ice, but fire; is not force, but peace; is not distnace, but love. Love is the flame of life. Without it, everything would be in the dark. God is love. And we stood at God’s feet, equal as we are.

I feel very lucky, because I have believed in God since my childhood. The Lord has lit my way, and often extricated me from difficult situations. Time after time he has given me new courage to face life cheerfull. He has been kindness, beauty and truth. I wish all people could know God, too. Although now there is no enough freedom of religion in a few countries, leaning on dependency of the Lord, we should be hopeful. Our Lord offers not the cup of despair, but the chalice of opportunity. Therefore, we must rejoice in hope and be patient in tribulation. As long as we believe in God, everything is possible.

Zhan Jing Ye, arrived in Manila only on May 15, 2008. Now she is a pre-postulant.

Out of Righteousness and Benefits

2008-05-10T16:53:00.009-04:00

Written by Sr. Elizabeth -- Taiwan Province

Bernard Shaw once said, "There are two miseries in life, the first one is you haven't got what you want, and the second is you have got it."

Once I was deeply convinced of Shaw's words and I admired his ability to express the miserable circumstances of life in such a humorous and easy way. But later after I carefully pondered his remark, I figured that the standpoint here is still, "to possess", which leads to the double tragedy -- the suffering of not having met one's desire and the feeling of emptiness or boredom after one possesses something he had wanted.

If we shift the standpoint into our creativity, and view life through an aesthetic lens -- why couldn't we say the opposite. There are two kinds of happiness -- the first is when you haven't attained what you want, so you may try to pursue it and make it possible; the second is after you have reached your objective, you may feel gratitude and enjoy it.

It is true, life is always accompanied by inevitable suffering; however, once you get rid of the desire of possessing, you might be able to prevent those pains and worries, allowing you to livehappier and balanced life. Living out of aesthetics is not a perfect way, but there is something more to life than Shaw presents. This belief will sustain me through the unpredictable future of my life.

Still

2008-05-10T16:46:00.006-04:00

by Sr. Jane M. Abeln -- US Province

When I was seven or so,
Sister used to let me sweep
the altar steps, and—so near
to Your Home, my Lord—I thought:
I'd love to spend my whole life
just sitting like this on the floor,
my soul resting at Your Feet.

But my friend kept telling jokes
and I kept giggling and
joking back with her, because
I was afraid to say
how sacred was this spot,
where my heart wanted only to
whisper, or adore in silence.

It came to pass
that I became a Sister
and have been privileged often
to rest at Your Feet. But still,
when Your presence is profaned
with talk of trite things,
I laugh, like one so far away,
and fear to say: Be still,
the Lord is here.

SIMPLICITY

2008-04-08T00:43:00.008-04:00

Simplicity is about subtracting the obvious, and adding the meaningful. -- John Maeda, "The Laws of Simplicity"

Holy Week in Tinharé

2008-04-07T23:41:00.007-04:00

Written by Sr. Silvia Corado do Amaral & Sr. Patrícia & Sr. Rosivonete -- Salvador Province

Every year, our community celebrates the Holy Week in a different place. Our intention is to be in poor places where there are no priests or missionaries to help the community to celebrate this very important time in our church.

This year, we went to Tinharé, a small village where our Sisters are working as missionaries. This community is very poor. People work very hard to make a living. Men and women fish every day and sell their product for very little money.

This community is very open, welcoming and full of life. Every one loves to sing, to dance, to pray, to be together and celebrate life. Adult people teach their traditional culture to the young generation and this gives a lot of energy and excitement to the community. During the days we spent there, we visited a lot of families, prepared presentations on the Gospel with children and the youth and helped to give a lot of life to every ceremony we had in the church.

After the ceremony of the resurrection on Saturday evening, we had a very nice moment of entertainment with music, dance and a lot of joy. The community really enjoyed this moment.

We believe that we can bring the good news of Jesus Christ in a very joyful way helping people to celebrate their faith without loose their original culture.

We left Tinharé on Easter Sunday with a lot of “saudade". We hope to go back there some day.

Adaptation of Psalm 63

2008-04-07T21:20:00.010-04:00

Written by Sr. Jane M. Abeln -- U.S. Province
Photo - Property of AllPosters

O God, my God, for You I long;
My soul athirst sings You its song.
My body lies, a stretch of sand;
It pines for water from Your Hand.
In Your High Place, on You I gaze,
To watch Your glory brightly blaze.

Far more than life is this, Your Love,
My lips will chant Your praise above.
I bless You, Lord, my whole life through,
I lift my hands to honor You.
My soul shall feast on Sacred Food,
With joyful lips, I praise your good.

In bed, I think always of You;
On You I muse the long night through.
For You, my Help, have sent your rays—
Your Spirit’s joy for all my days.
O You, my soul will ever grip;
Your Hand will never let me slip.

18 lines
First Rights, Accents

M.E.

2008-04-07T21:15:00.003-04:00

Written by Sr. Jane M. Abeln -- U.S. Province

Like a crippled girl from a body cast,
through My Word
and My tender Touch,
you have leaped forth whole unto Me.
You are healed, healed from inside out—
doubly healed.
And you are sealed, sealed as My Beloved,
by My Word
and My tender Touch.

I have unbound you,
unwound the bandages
until at last the full Light
that always surrounded you
can sink through your eyes
into this little soul
that I have claimed as My own.
You will forget, like a mother, your anguish
for the joy that new life is born
in you
and through you.

Yet I leave on your body a few bandages
to remind you of bigger wounds
still suffered by My Body,
which I send you to heal
and seal
by My Word
and My tender Touch
for the glory of My Father.

28 lines
First Rights, Accents

Abba (Through the Womb of This Life to the Father)

2008-04-07T20:48:00.008-04:00

Written by Sr. Jane M. Abeln - U.S. Province
Photo - Property of AllPosters

In Mother's womb, I saw you not, dear Dad.
Though you first held me-to-be, my eye
Had not beheld your face. And oh, the joy
To see you in the light of this, my life!

In this second womb, I see You not, dear God.
Though You first held me-to-be, my eye
Has not beheld Your Face. But oh, the joy
To gaze on You beyond this night of life!

And yet, My Father, already I’m beheld
By You who see the me-to-be, and I
Am held, enfolded in You
As in a hurricane’s eye.
And I wait to see those Eyes of You
Who first beheld both Dad and me,
Who hold our becoming and call:
“Yes, come! Become! In Me!”

(Originally published in
Anthem, GSRRE, Fordham,
Spring, 1983, p. 3. Revised slightly, 2008)

To Be SMIC

2008-04-07T18:12:00.012-04:00

Written by Sr. Lucivane -- Belém Province

I want to share an idea with you about the invitation for my Perpetual Profession. What I'm about to write isn't very deep with respect to the English Language because my vocabulary is limited, but my heart is happy with what I managed to express.

During my time in the Congregation, I have had many experiences with Mary, Saint Francis and Jesus, the roots of our spirituality.

The three candles symbolize the love of the Father, the Son, the Holy Spirit and the three vows: poverty, chastity and obedience. The SMIC Congregation is the light and fire that heats the lives of many people through the presence of mercy, available in Mary, through her appeal to God.

“Behold the handmaid of the Lord", because for God, our important mission is in all different parts of the world. Thank God for Mary's presence in my life. With her love I'm strong and feel safe to continue my walk with SMIC.

Roses are Red

2008-04-07T18:05:00.009-04:00

Written by Sr. Ana Lúcia -- Salvador Province
Photo -- Property of AllPosters

Roses are red,
Violets are blue,
Sugar is sweet
and so are you.

In order to see ...
that roses are red,
that pretty violets are blue,
and that sugar is sweet,
it is necessary for us to be aware, to be positive, and to have love in our hearts.

The Moth and The Cocoon

2008-03-11T13:02:00.006-04:00

Author Unknown
Art by Salvador Dali, Landscape with Butterflies

A man found a cocoon of an emperor moth. He took it home, so that he could watch the moth come out of the cocoon. One day, a small opening appeared, and he sat still, watching for several hours, as the moth struggled to force its body through the little hole. Then, it seemed to stop making any progress. It appeared, as if, it had gotten as far as it could and it could go no farther. It seemed to be stuck. Then, the man in his kindness, decided to help the moth.

So, he took a pair of scissors, and snipped off the remaining bit of the cocoon. The moth then emerged easily. But, it had a swollen body and small, shriveled wings. The man continued to watch the moth, because he expected, at any moment, the wings would enlarge and expand to be able to support the body, which would contract in time. Neither happened! In fact, the little moth spent the rest of its life, crawling around with a swollen body and shriveled wings. It never was able to fly.

What the man, in his kindness and haste, did not understand was, the restricting cocoon and the struggle, required for the moth to get through the tiny opening, were God's way of forcing fluid from the body of the moth, into its wings, so it would be ready for flight, once it achieved its freedom from the cocoon. Freedom and flight would only come after the struggle. By depriving the moth of a struggle, the man deprived the moth of health.

Sometimes, struggles are exactly what we need in our life. If God allowed us to go through our life without any obstacles, He would cripple us.We would not be as strong, as what we could have been.

Growth in English

2008-03-11T10:14:00.005-04:00

Written by Sr. Lucivane - Belém Province
Art by Amy E. Fraser -Single Gazania

To study English is a necessary discipline and responsibility.

Since the Intensive English Course, each sister has continuously studied English individually, because during the week we are very busy -- working in the school and studying at the University. Our house is a house of students -- a community of five sisters who participated in the English program.

Recently, we felt the necessity to study together. Now, we are studying every Sunday in the afternoon -- listening to and singing different songs in English. We are reviewing English grammar, especially the verbs. It's very important for us.

This simple decision and time together has aroused a lot of interest; we are communicating more in English within our community. We realize we need to learn and speak English internationally. It's one requirement for our congregation and world.

Thanks to my province and community for incentivizing me. I need preparation for the approaching new experience in my life. To learn English in the United States of America will be a challenge. I fear new experiences, but I must overcome my fear.

Community Commitment

2008-03-11T10:12:00.004-04:00

The sisters study English together once a week in Quixadá Community, Belém Province. From right to left: Sr. Norma, Sr. Gleisiane, Sr. Graça, Sr. Lucivane & Sr. Rúbia

A Sign

2008-03-11T10:10:00.003-04:00

Written by Sr. Rúbia - Belém Province
Photograph by Sr. Rúbia -- The Flowering Flamboyant

In Sertão, the Center of the State of Ceará, rain is scarce; the sun is always intense and the land waits for water with patience and hope. Thus, every year our eyes search for signs of rain. The Flowering Flamboyant tree is a sign. It's a tree originally from Madagascar, but it's very common in Brazil. It has two basic necessities to grow: space and sun. It's of exuberant beauty!

In this region of our country, people say that when the Flamboyant is flowering, it's a sign of a very good winter. Then, all can prepare the land and seeds; all can be sure that rain will come, that the harvest will be abundant.

Now, here in Sertão, our Flamboyant is flowering. A few weeks ago her branches were barren, without flowers, without color, but her sap was there ... her life was hidden. Now, she's flowering and transforming the landscape, reviving our hope. Her blossoms are falling to the ground, laying a big, beautiful red carpet. Sure enough, the rain came ... wetting the earth and I also believe we will have a good winter!

Teach Us Mother Mary

2008-03-11T10:06:00.004-04:00

Written by Sr. Gleisiane - Belém Province
Art by Filippo Lippi, Madonna delle Roccie, Particolare

For nothing is impossible with God.
I am the Lord's servant. (Luke 1, 37-38)

Faith, listening and offering our service are, for us SMICs, three virtues of Mary to be imitated. These virtues appear clearly in the text of the Gospel and in particular in this phrase, "Nothing is impossible for who those have faith and put their confidence in God". Mary lived this grace; this was the way that Mary chose, to live a life of pleasant offerings to God. Teach us Mother Mary, to walk this way, too.

Haiku

2008-03-10T22:35:00.007-04:00

Written by Sr. Andrea Westkamp - U.S. Province
Art by Amy E. Fraser - White Lily and Orange Emperor Tulips

Charism of SMIC

embraces my life

to let gentleness abound.

Thirst of the Night

2008-03-06T10:49:00.004-05:00

Written by Sr. Jane M. Abeln -- U.S. Province
Art by Sassoferrato (Giovanni Battista Salvi), The Madonna, Bust Length, at Prayer

In a commentary on St. John of the Cross' poem, Dark Night of the Soul, about its first line “Fired with Love's urgent longings,”I read, “[A] person should not mind if the operations of his faculties are being lost to him; he ought to desire [to] make room in his spirit for the enkindling and burning of the love that this dark and secret contemplation bears and communicates to his soul. . .which, if not hampered, fires the soul in the spirit of Love. . . .”

I’ve dashed to Your font of Living Water,
flung open my soul to be blest,
pursed my lips to Your prancing stream—
but not tasted, nor felt refreshed.

Parched my spirit, uncorked my desire
to sip Your sparkling Wine,
then catch into my chalice-heart
Your assurance, “You are Mine!”

Your Precious Heart oozes blood—
I want to share in that pain.
You look for one to drink with You.
I open my mouth—in vain!

Salty tears augment my thirst.
No matter how many I cry,
Beloved, I love You never enough.
My heart stays crushed and dry.

One line this day from John of the Cross
has touched my spirit at last:
“Burning love—unquenchable—is Your lure
to draw the one You hold fast.”

Mother’s Handkerchiefs

2008-03-06T10:17:00.007-05:00

Written by Sr. Jane M. Abeln -- U.S. Province
Art by John William Godward (1917), Under the Blossom that Hangs on the Bough

When you, Mother, offered me hankies
from your mahogany dresser drawer,
I declined those sweet-scented servants
though their corners curled up their hands
toward me. I thought how you’d need them
to catch drops of your sorrows and joys.

How could I know, in just three days,
I'd lift those orphans to my eyes
to drown them in a salty bath.
If only they could stem the blood
from the bullet-speed car that sent you
into God’s own loving Arms.

Now these pale ladies connect me
with your kindest heart and hands
that caressed away my tears.
I pour into them my secret thoughts
as I remember you, and feel
your soft touch on my cheek still.

3rd Place, Poetry Contest ‘07
Alfred H. Baumann Library
West Paterson NJ, USA
(Revised slightly since award)

Magnificat

2008-03-05T14:05:00.007-05:00

Written by Sr. Lucimar -- Salvador Province
Art by Sandro Botticelli (1482) The Madonna of the Magnificat, Detail of the Virgin's Face and Crown

Magnificat, my soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord who has chosen me among women. I am not yet perfect and still fall short of you, but I'm your daughter and I feel your wonders in my life.

Your presence teaches me to die each day so that a new life can be cultivated in me. Your plans and your fondness are not mine many times, thus you respect me. Your love in me stimulates my energy and gives purpose to my projects.

I know that faith is not alone about thinking, but by practicing and exerting effort through you. Therefore here I am with my all.

Cowardice, fear, unreliability, to make you and not myself. In all my smallness, I only ask for a favour of being a sister or a sign of peace, joy and hope ... that my hands know how to touch, my look transmits love, my smile, peace and my feet always go to meet the other.

And my YES, each time I more strongly affirm. Jesus said, my mother and my brothers are those who make my will.

Gratitude to my Father my God -- my everything.

Perfect Freedom

2008-03-05T13:48:00.007-05:00

Written by Sr. Felicitas, Taiwan Province
Art by Rembrandt van Rijn, (1168-69) Return of the Prodigal Son

I had never heard about "perfect freedom" in a prison until I read the short story, "Perfect Freedom" in the book Chicken Soup for the Christian Soul"

I think perfect freedom in prison is uncommon, at least in my mind, but now I know that it is possible in some countries. I suppose it's time for a change; to believe in something that I couldn't believe before.

This prison in Brazil is different from a usual prison, as God's love and mutual respect is present. That's the main point we should know. Everyone needs love and respect, especially the prisoners (sinners) who also have strong will. If prisoners can receive love or respect from others, they can be touched and start changing themselves little by little. At least, they will realize that someone still loves them; they are not the worst in some degree.

They can be saved by themselves. Of course, it's important to show our trust in them and to give them love in different ways. When they really find out what love is, they will be different than we expected. Trust and love manifest freedom. Mankind can show its good character in freedom. Suppose if we despised prisoners or we used violence to control them, they would hate the world more deeply and they would make light of their lives. It is by no means easy to expect that they would repent, but violence cannot change a man's heart; only love -- God’s love is the best medicine for prisoners and sinners.

I do agree with prisoners taking classes on character development and receiving encouragement to participate in educational and religious programs. That means they can get more self-confidence and can more easily change themselves completely. In addition, there are no armed guards or high-tech security measures. The prison only has love. I know it’s not easy to do as Brazil does, especially in some countries, but if there is love, even prisons can become the kingdom of God.

Movie Review: The March of the Penguins

2008-02-05T11:56:00.000-05:00

Written by Sr. Grace - Taiwan Province
Photograph taken by Polar Cruises

This was the first time for me to get to know the life of penguins. The scenes in“The March of the Penguins”were splendid and astonishing as well. After watching the movie, I could think of nothing but the wonder of nature, in which God constantly manifests himself.

Everywhere, the earth is full of life, even in such a harsh environment like Antarctica. The penguins were put there by God, together with their physical conditions and inborn abilities of recourse. During their entire lifetime, they have no other desires than to feed themselves, give birth to new generations and provide for their chicks during the very first months of their lives.

These are the instincts God bestowed on them and they never dissent. Even the most amazing part of their lives, in which the father penguins hatch chicks without eating for more than three months under the most turbulent climate, is also somehow their destiny, which they accept without any querimony.

Human beings, as the most wondrous creatures, are gifted with freedom and possibility of free will. Nevertheless, we continuously try to rebel against God’s will. The Good News Jesus brought to this world told us, that God’s will is nothing else than His love for us. However our little faith doesn't believe in it totally. And we always search for another way to find joy and love. Sometimes only in failure, we recognize that we are not on the right path. How I wish that I wouldn't always need to go astray before I reach the proper point. I believe in acceptance of God'ss will for my life, I can discover true joy and freedom of life.

The Power of Love

2008-02-02T11:13:00.000-05:00

Written by Alan Loy McGinnis
Photograph by J. Summerhays

Viktor Frankl, a Vienna Jew, was interned by the Germans for more than three years. He was moved from one concentration camp to another, even spending several months in Auschwitz. Dr. Frankl said that he learned early that one way to survive was to shave every morning, no matter how sick you were, even if you had to use a piece of broken glass for a razor. For every morning, as the prisoners stood for review, the sickly ones who would not be able to work that day were sent to the gas chambers. If you were shaven, and your face looked ruddier for it, your chances of escaping death that day were better.

Their bodies wasted away on the daily fare of 10 1/2 ounces of bread and 1 3/4 pints of thin gruel. They slept on bare board tiers seven feet wide, nine men to a tier. The nine men shared two blankets together. Three shrill whistles awoke them for work at three A.M.

One morning as they marched out to lay railroad ties in the frozen ground miles from the camp, the accompanying guards kept shouting and driving them with the butts of their rifles. Anyone with sore feet supported himself on his neighbor's arm. The man next to Frankl, hiding his mouth behind his upturned collar whispered: "If our wives could see us now! I do hope they are better off in their camps and don't know what is happening to us."

Frankl writes:
That brought thoughts of my own wife to mind. And as we stumbled on for miles, slipping on icy spots, supporting each other time and again, dragging one another up and onward, nothing was said, but we both knew: each of us was thinking of his wife. Occasionally I looked at the sky, where the stars were fading and the pink light of the morning was beginning to spread behind a dark bank of clouds. But my mind clung to my wife's image, imagining it with an uncanny acuteness. I heard her answering me, saw her smile, her frank and encouraging look.

A thought transfixed me: for the first time in my life I saw the truth as it is set into song by so many poets, proclaimed as the final wisdom by so many thinkers. The truth that love is the ultimate and highest goal to which man can aspire. Then I grasped the meaning of the greatest secret that human poetry and human thought and belief have to impart: the salvation of man is through love and in love.

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love.
But the greatest of these is love.
1 Corinthians 13:13 NIV

Jesus' Ribs

2008-02-01T21:45:00.000-05:00

Written by Sr. Jane M. Abeln -- U.S. Province

Jesus’ Ribs:

Fingers of the Father

bending round

the Heart of the Son,

reaching down

in the grasp of His Love

as silent support

on the Cross.

First version published in Anthem, Graduate School of Religion, Spring, 1983,
Re-published in A Time of Singing,March, 1998.
Slight Revision, 2008.

Every Dream Can Come True: A Book Review of the Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

2008-02-01T21:10:00.000-05:00

Written by Sr. Grace - Taiwan Province
Photograph by J. Summerhays

A friend enthusiastically recommended the international bestseller “The Alchemist”. Actually, the book title didn’t attract me at all. Anyhow, I began to read it; and little by little, I was so magnetized by it that I finished the entire book in just one stretch. Consequently, I became very curious about the author Paulo Coelho. Fortunately there was a short biography in that edition published in New York, USA, about him, from which I found out that he is really an unusual person.

The plot of “The Alchemist” is not very complicated, and yet fabulous; it is simple and in the same way exotic. Above all, it is full of wisdom. A shepherd boy, who dreamed of a treasure in the Pyramids of Egypt, sold all his sheep to pursue his dream. Having undergone various difficulties on the one hand and assistances on the other, he finally reached his goal in Egypt, whereas he was shown that the treasure he had been searching for was hidden in the place where he had started his long journey. The book has a happy and comforting ending, as the boy found his treasure and love.

The phrase “Personal Legend”, which I couldn’t understand totally at the beginning, appears in the book repeatedly; for me it is the key-word of this book. I was fascinated mainly by the belief of the author, which is: every dream will come true, if we begin to follow it. Like an old man told the boy, “When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it”. Furthermore, not only people are looking to fulfil their dreams, but the dreams are also trying to reach the people. Several times when the boy saw no hope and wanted to give up his search, something would happen, which inspired him, promoted him, gave him courage and new hope, and impelled him to continue.

Everything that happened in his life was not just a coincidence; in contrast, everything had its own meaning and provided for the fulfilment of his dream. For instance, the boy was robbed when he had just arrived in Africa. What seemed to be a tragedy was proven to be a blessing for him afterward. Just because he was robbed and he had to support himself, he found a job there and learnt plenty of skills, which helped him cross the desert and reach the Pyramids at last.

Another indispensable aspect of the story about this shepherd boy is certainly to recognize his dream or his destiny. The same old man told the boy, “To realize one’s destiny is a person’s only obligation.” Not everybody believes what he dreams. As a case in point, the leader of the Arabian attackers at the Pyramids, although he had the recurrent dream, too, he thought he could not be so stupid to cross an entire desert just because of a seemingly impossible dream. The boy was lucky, since he met the old man, who helped him understand his Personal Legend, even though it sounded so intricate.

I was grateful for having read this book in a time of a kind of personal confusion. The story of the shepherd boy made it clear for me, that I can have dreams and I can try to fulfil my dreams. Where my inner desire goes, there lies my dream. To realize my dream is my obligation. To live without dreams is like a dead man walking. Once when I realize my dream, I can follow it with all my effort and with all my trust. God will help me fulfil my dream through everything I encounter in my daily life.

Sun of God

2008-02-01T20:39:00.000-05:00

Written by Sr. Jane M. Abeln -- U.S. Province
Photograph by J. Summerhays

Your sun, my God,
makes clouds turn gold,
flares smoke orange,
smothers a gray skyline,
gilds green-tipped waves.

Seagull wings shimmer,
bear skyward
fire off the water,
reflecting tears
in my eyes.

Though flame skips to me,
warm, red-gold, I who
from ship’s deck behold,
whose heart desires,
remain cold

My Father,
through this sun
send Your Son.
Ignite my murky waters.
Set my blood ablaze!

Composed, April 24, 1971
On Cape May Ferry
Printed in Fordham GSRRE's
Anthem, May 1983
Revised 2006

About Gratitude

2008-02-01T20:32:00.000-05:00

Written by Sr. Grace - Taiwan Province

Gratitude is to recognize what I am provided with, to be content with what I possess now, to admit that I don't earn it by myself, but am given, and consequently desire to share what I have.

Gratefulness is a feeling or an emotion, which fills my heart and has accompanied me all along my journey. My inner gratitude becomes stronger and stronger day by day. I have a sufficient number of reasons to be appreciative, but above all, my strongest thankfulness is toward my parents.

As the youngest child of the family, I have experienced love since I was born. Although my family was not rich, my parents tried their best to look after all our needs, even when sometimes it meant that they had to give up what they themselves liked.

Besides material well-being, what I received and am receiving from my parents the most is love. My parents are very devoted Christians and the best gift they have given me is my faith. They suffered persecution because of their Faith during the Cultural Revolution (1965-1975) and at the time when I was born, we were still prohibited to go to the church or have the Eucharist; interestingly, the very first sentence I could utter was the sign of cross. Still today, a vivid image, which so often appears in front of me is, that my mother was teaching me to make the sign of the cross and telling me, every morning when I woke up and every evening before I went to bed, the most important thing to do is to make the sign of cross and to ask God to bless each single one of my family. This became one of my habits, which I am still practicing now.

My parents didn't only bring me up in Faith using words; they did it much more with their lives. They have always respected each other, and other people, too. They have never said any hurtful words and have always taught us to be good-tempered, tolerant and understanding, and above all, to forgive.

The love I have been receiving and am receiving from my parents has become the most solid foundation of my life and will be the cause of my gratitude forever.

Idiom Ideology

2008-01-11T10:31:00.000-05:00

Written by Sr. Elizabeth - Taiwan Province

Do you know Jennifer? She is really something, she has a key to master English. I'm not pulling your leg, believe or not, I just got it straight from the horse's mouth. Let me show you what's up her sleeve.

Learning English is not as easy as a cake. You need to take the bull by the horns, and get the ball rolling with your mouth open, just like shooting the breeze and never let the cat get your tongue.

Sometimes you may feel at the end of your rope; your mind becomes a blank to say or to write an English word, even you blow it on the tests. Don't be afraid of biting the dust, just face the music and then stick to your guns to learn it again. If you can bite the bullet and hang on in learning English, you will make a splash. Since English is the international language, once you master it, you may have the world by the tail in doing many things.

Ok, learning English is fun, despite the fact that it eats at you from time to time. I guess after two months' training, you all have bent over backwards. Now, no one dare sell you short anymore. By the way, I heard your Sisters of EGCM will visit you soon, please don't keep your English under your hats, speak loudly and fluently with your sisters and knock their socks off. Moreover, don't forget to mind your P's and Q's, your good manners will make them feel like a million dollars.

Well, thanks for your patience and applause, if you have any problems in English, Jennifer still has two days left. Please don't let the opportunity go to the dogs. She is every ready to go to bat for any of her students!

Oh, listen! Something sounds fishy! I have got to go, bye bye! See you around!

The Gleaners

2007-12-29T09:39:00.000-05:00

Written by Sr. Leaticia - Taiwan Province
Art by Jean François Millet, 1857

My presentation is about the painting, “The Gleaners”. This picture was painted by Jean-Francois Millet in 1857. He was born in Normandy, France, the son of a farm laborer. Millet painted many pictures depicting the “grim reality of French peasants toiling” on the land.

When I saw the picture, I felt something very familiar because I am the daughter of a farmer and I have worked as a gleaner. This picture helped me remember my hometown and my childhood.

There is a broad field in my hometown. People plant corn and wheat. The middle of September is the harvest time for wheat. People use sickles to reap the wheat and bind it into bundles. They put the bundles together like hills (look at the picture).

In this picture, people use carriages to carry the shears, but in my hometown, I remember people using tractors. They are faster than carriages. At that tim, everyone had big smiles on their faces; they were working and singing at the same time. Gladness filled the whole town because wheat was the most important grain in our lives.

During my youth, my younger brother and me worked as gleaners. At first, we didn't like this work. It was too hot and tiring, but my mother had a good idea. She told us that if we worked as gleaners, she would give us money or we could use the wheat-head that we picked and exchange it for fruit. At that time, some people sold fruit on the street in my hometown – watermelons and other melons. I like these fruits very much and to eat these melons on a hot day, was very cool.

My brother and I worked hard to pick the wheat-head. Then, we took it to my mother; she weighed it on a scale and gave us reasonable money. We were very happy and successful at it. The next day, we worked harder. We used our money to buy fruit and shared it with my family. My parents were very proud of us; they often praised us to our neighbors. Although we were tired and sweaty, we were very happy. I was the happiest when I ate watermelon with my family.

So now, I have grown up I don’t have the chance to work as a gleaner anymore, but I will remember the pleasing memory forever.

Haiku

2007-12-29T09:37:00.000-05:00

Written by Sr. Leaticia - Taiwan Province

Small and lonely heart
like a drop of the ocean
falling in God's love

happy stars bright sky
gentle breeze blows from the tree
heart thankful and peace

A Letter to Belém Province

2007-12-29T09:34:00.000-05:00

Written by Sr. Dulcis - Taiwan Province

Hello cute sisters in Belém!
I’m very happy to hear about you from our teacher Jennifer. Also, I was glad to see your pictures; they made me happy and miss you so much. Jennifer told me that I have a “Brazilian heart”, full of joy and passion. I agree with her. You are always deep in my heart.

I am learning English and also learning stories about your English experience. I am very happy. Jennifer is a great teacher; I like her very much. By the way, your hometown and communities are so beautiful. I saw some pictures. Ok! I have to go for the class.

Bye-Bye. Warmest regards.
I wish you luck!
With love and prayer, Sr. Dulcis

Haiku

2007-12-29T09:33:00.001-05:00

Sr. Felicitas - Taiwan Province

The ocean and sea
nevr mind where you should be
wild heart you teach me

happy or sadness
it is between you a choice
which one will you choose

when you grasp tightly
you will lose it easily
let it go quickly

the time keeps going
history never ceasing
God everlasting

Limerick Poetry

2007-12-29T09:31:00.000-05:00

Sr. Anita - Taiwan Province

There once as a smart, fat, gray rat
Who sat on a trap near a black cat
They varied from side to side
With the cat’s leg inside
And a fire burned from the face of the cat

Haiku

2007-12-29T09:30:00.000-05:00

Sr. Anita - Taiwan Province

Your infinite love
Incarnation of Jesus
Renew the whole world

Limerick Poetry

2007-12-29T09:28:00.000-05:00

Sr. Elizabeth - Taiwan Province

There once as a maid near a lake,
whose naked feet were bit by a snake.

The maid was so scared and tried
her trouble be spared
Then she decided to bake a cake with the snake

Limerick Poetry

2007-12-29T09:27:00.000-05:00

Sr. Francisca - Manila, Philippines

There once was a lovely woman named May
Who rode an old bicycle her own way.

She returned from the state.
spent her money for a date

during the wonderful hot month of May.

Haiku

2007-12-29T09:25:00.001-05:00

Sr. Felicitas – Taiwan Province

Simple, easy, clean and pure
makes you holy and sacred
not easy to take.

Beautiful beginning
with ambitions and hard-work
will bring good ending

Limerick Poetry

2007-12-29T09:15:00.000-05:00

Sr. Dilecta – Taiwan Province

I have never stopped dreaming I could fly
like the birds hovering freely in the sky

Once I became a talkative magpie,
but what I said was just a lie
I woke up feeling ashamed under the unclouded sky

I Know a Man

2007-12-29T09:13:00.000-05:00

Sr. Agnes – Taiwan Province

I know a man. His name is Jesus.
His holy heart is beautiful, better than everybody’s.
His heart is full of love’s fire.
He always accepts everybody and feels pity for the poor.
One day, his heart was hurt because of love.
Although his heart was hurt, he still loves forever.
For me, this is a very beautiful heart – pure love.

WORDS OF WISDOM

2007-12-29T04:45:00.000-05:00

"If you judge people, you have no time to love them."
-- Mother Teresa

"Faith is to believe what we do not see, and the reward of faith to see what we believe."
-- St. Augustine

"People will often forget what you say. People will often forget what you do. But people will never forget how you make them feel."
-- Author Unknown

Dreams & Grasshopper Wings

2007-12-29T04:26:00.000-05:00

Sr. Dilecta - Taiwan Province

There are many grasshoppers during autumn. Have you ever seen them sold in markets? I bet your answer must be "no", but I was a seller of grasshoppers' wings to make my dreams come true.

I grew up in the countryside in China. We had many fields. My parents grew wheat, corn, soybeans and peanuts. During the harvest season, I used to catch grasshoppers. My father would clean and fry them; they tasted good! But my mother would just throw them to the hens. One day when I was helping my father to clean the grasshoppers, I found something very beautiful. It was the grasshoppers' wings! They had colorful wings. Each pair was different from the other. I fell in love with them. From that moment on, I carefully set all the wings I collected in a book. At that time, my dream was to be a painter, but my parents didn't want me to become a painter. I had to work in my own way.

One day, I took out some wings and put them on a stone table beside our gate. After setting a "for sale" sign, I sat at the table waiting for buyers. It was not long after, the children around that area were coming and selecting the wings they liked. I sold them -- one pair of wings for one piece of paper. After 30 minutes, they were all sold out.

Sticking the papers together, I proudly began to draw pictures. From then on, I have had a belief that your dream will come true only if you start to dream.

HAIKU

2007-12-29T04:25:00.000-05:00

Sr. Felicitas - Taiwan Province

In my heart of hearts
Jesus' love wakes me up from death
Joy fills in my life

Pouring rain falls again
Upset and darkness give me pain
A glimmer of hope soon

Oh! Diary, diary
You are footprints everyday
Wisdom comes from they

A Dream

2007-12-29T00:30:00.000-05:00

Sr. Leticia, Taiwan Province

Because a call came, "Follow me!"
I resolutely left my hometown.
I had my family's blessing,
A dream of a beautiful paradise.

Time elapsed; spring passed and fall came again.

God's grace acompanies me in a strange place.
Although I undergo suffering of homesickness everyday,
gratitude is abundant.
Joy, pain, sorrow and happiness all melt in God's love.
I believe my dream will come true.

Van Gogh

2007-12-29T00:18:00.000-05:00

JANUARY READING

Vincent Van Gogh was not always an artist. In fact, he wanted to be a church pastor and was even sent to the Belgian mining community of Borinage in 1879.

He discovered that the miners there endured deplorable working conditions and poverty-level wages. Their families were mal-nourished and struggled simply to survive. He felt concerned that the small stipend he received from the church allowed him a moderate life-style, which, in contrast, seemed to him unfair.

One cold February evening, while he watched the miners trudging home, he spotted an old man staggering toward him across the fields, wrapped in a burlap sack for warmth. Van Gogh laid his own clothing out on the bed, set aside enough for one change, and decided to give the rest away. He gave the old man a suit of clothes and he gave his overcoat to a pregnant woman whose husband had been killed in a cave-in. He lived on starvation rations and spent his stipend on food for the miners.

When children in one family contracted typhoid fever, though feverish himself, he packed up his bed and took it to them.

A prosperous family in the community offered him free room and board. Van Gogh declined the offer, stating that it was the final temptation he must reject if he was to faithfully serve his community of poor miners. He believed that if he wanted them to trust him, he must become one of them. And if they were to learn of the love of God through him, he must love them enough to share with them.

He was acutely aware of the wide chasm between words and actions. He knew that our lives always speak louder and clearer than our words. Maybe that is why Francis of Assisi often said to his monks, "Wherever you go, preach. Use words if necessary." Others are "listening" carefully to your actions. What are you saying to them?

Author Unknown

The Wise King

2007-12-06T09:15:00.000-05:00

Sr. Francisca - Taiwan Province

Long long ago, there was a wise king; he found he was getting old, so he wanted his son to succeed him. But he hoped his son would be a good and wise king like himself. What could he do? He asked a wise man in his country, the man advised him to send his son to the woods for one year, and then asked the son what he heard. So, the king did it.

One year passed; the son went back to his father. The father asked, “My son, what did you hear?” The son answered, “Father, I heard nothing.” The father said, “Go back, my son, and listen carefully, then tell me what you hear.” Then the son went back to the woods. Time flew! When the second year was finished, the son went back to his father, but he still had heard nothing. So, the third time, he was sent by his father to the woods. When the year passed, he went back to his father. The father asked him, “My beloved, what did you hear? The son answered, “Father, I heard the laughter of the river, the songs of the birds. The words of the flowers, the breath of the wind. The father was so happy when he heard his son’s answer. He knew the son was ready to be a good king, because when he could hear the voice of nature, he could hear the voice of his people.

After I read this story, immediately a Chinese word came into my mind. That is “listen 聽,” this word has six parts, one is “ears耳,” one is “king王,” one is “ten十,” one is “eyes目,” one is “one, whole 一,” one is “heart心.” This word told us, when we listen, not only with our ears, but also our eyes; when we listen, not only with our eyes, but also with our heart. If we listen with our eyes, ears, and with our whole heart, we will be the “king”, means we will be perfect listeners. If we listen with our eyes, ears, and whole heart, we could listen to something beyond the meaning of the words.

A Cry for Help

2007-12-05T10:32:00.000-05:00

DECEMBER READING 2

Once upon a time, there was an island where all the feelings lived: Happiness, Sadness, and all of the others, including Love.

One day it was announced to the feelings that the island would sink, so all repaired their boats and left.

Love was the only one who stayed. Love wanted to persevere until the last possible moment.

When the island was almost sinking, Love decided to ask for help.

Richness was passing by Love in a grand boat. Love said, "Richness, can you take me with you?" Richness answered, "No I can't..There is a lot of gold and silver in my boat. There is no place for you here."

Love decided to ask Vanity, who was also passing by in a beautiful vessel, "Vanity, please help me!" "I can't help you Love. You are all wet and might damage my boat," Vanity answered.

Sadness was close by so Love asked for help, "Sadness let me go with you." "Oh...Love, I am so sad that I need to be by myself!"

Happiness passed by Love too, but she was so happy that she did not even hear when Love called her!

Suddenly, there was a voice, "Come Love, I will take you." It was an elder. Love felt so blessed and overjoyed that he even forgot to ask the elder her name.

When they arrived at dry land, the elder went her own way. Love, realizing how much he owed the elder, asked Knowledge, another elder, "Who helped me?"

"It was Time", Knowledge answered.

"Time?" asked Love. "But why did Time help me?

Knowledge smiled with deep wisdom and answered, "Because only Time is capable of understanding how great Love is."

Author: Unknown

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL HEART

2007-11-18T02:50:00.000-05:00

DECEMBER READING 1

One day a young man was standing in the middle of the town proclaiming that he had the most beautiful heart in the whole valley.

A large crowd gathered and they all admired his heart for it was perfect. There was not a mark or a flaw in it. Yes, they all agreed it truly was the most beautiful heart they had ever seen. The young man was very proud and boasted more loudly about his beautiful heart.

Suddenly, an old man appeared at the front of the crowd and said, "Why your heart is not nearly as beautiful as mine." The crowd and the young man looked at the old man's heart. It was beating strongly, but full of scars, it had places where pieces had been removed and other pieces put in, but they didn't fit quite right and there were several jagged edges. In fact, in some places there were deep gouges where whole pieces were missing.

The people stared "How can he say his heart is more beautiful?" they thought.

The young man looked at the old man's heart and saw its state and laughed. "You must be joking," he said. "Compare your heart with mine, mine is perfect and yours is a mess of scars and tears."

"Yes," said the old man, "Yours is perfect looking but I would never trade with you. You see, every scar represents a person to whom have given my love - I tear out a piece of my heart and give it to them, and often they give me a piece of their heart which fits into the empty place in my heart, but because the pieces aren't exact, I have some rough edges, which I cherish, because they remind me of the love we shared."

"Sometimes I have given pieces of my heart away, and the other person hasn't returned a piece of his heart to me. These are the empty gouges - giving love is taking a chance. Although these gouges are painful, they stay open, reminding me of the love I have for these people too, and I hope someday they may return and fill the space I have waiting. So now do you see what true beauty is?"

The young man stood silently with tears running down his cheeks.

He walked up to the old man, reached into his perfect young and beautiful heart, and ripped a piece out. He offered it to the old man with trembling hands. The old man took his offering, placed it in his heart and then took a piece from his old scarred heart and placed it in the wound in the young man's heart. It fit, but not perfectly, as there were some jagged edges.

The young man looked at his heart, not perfect anymore but more beautiful than ever, since love from the old man's heart flowed into his.

They embraced and walked away side by side.

Author: Unknown

THE MOST BEAUTIFUL FLOWER

2007-11-18T00:25:00.000-05:00

NOVEMBER READING

The park bench was deserted as I sat down to read
Beneath the long, straggly branches of an old willow tree.
Disillusioned by life with good reason to frown,
For the world was intent on dragging me down.

And if that weren't enough to ruin my day,
A young boy out of breath approached me, all tired from play.
He stood right before me with his head tilted down
And said with great excitement, "Look what I found!"

NOVEMBER READING
In his hand was a flower, and what a pitiful sight,
With its petals all worn - not enough rain, or too little light.
Wanting him to take his dead flower and go off to play,
I faked a small smile and then shifted away.

But instead of retreating he sat next to my side
And placed the flower to his nose
And declared with overacted surprise,
"It sure smells pretty and it's beautiful, too.
That's why I picked it; here, it's for you."

The weed before me was dying or dead.
Not vibrant of colors: orange, yellow or red.
But I knew I must take it, or he might never leave.
So I reached for the flower, and replied, "Just what I need."

But instead of him placing the flower in my hand,
He held it mid-air without reason or plan.
It was then that I noticed for the very first time
That weed-toting boy could not see: he was blind.

I heard my voice quiver; tears shone in the sun
As I thanked him for picking the very best one.
You're welcome," he smiled, and then ran off to play,
Unaware of the impact he'd had on my day.

I sat there and wondered how he managed to see
A self-pitying woman beneath an old willow tree.
How did he know of my self-indulged plight?
Perhaps from his heart, he'd been blessed with true sight.

Through the eyes of a blind child, at last I could see
The problem was not with the world; the problem was me.
And for all of those times I myself had been blind,
I vowed to see the beauty in life,
And appreciate every second that's mine.

And then I held that wilted flower up to my nose
And breathed in the fragrance of a beautiful rose
And smiled as I watched that young boy,
Another weed in his hand,
About to change the life of an unsuspecting old man.

by Cheryl Costello-Forshey