I saw an interview between Sr. Joan Chittister, IHM and Oprah Winfrey. They were discussing one of Sister Joan’s many books titled “The Time Is Now.” They surveyed what our culture has become over the past years, especially today’s differences in political views from those found in values in our Declaration of Independence and Constitution. They discussed issues deeper than content, including widespread values, ideas, beliefs, debate/discussion, how we speak and live and treat one another. “Do we have any civility?” they wondered.
Impressed by the interview, I wondered about small scale culture—the way our families, classrooms, religious communities, workplaces, social groups form a culture intentionally or not. What are the common beliefs, rules, values, language, practices? Two months ago, I moved into a different house with different sisters. My work/ministry remained somewhat the same but not completely. While every change in residence or work/ministry has challenges, along with significant blessings, it’s almost amusing how little household methods and activities one needs to get used to, such as how to fill a dishwasher and which channel to watch on TV. Favorite brands may not be in the cupboards and freezer.
What a blessing all of this is! It keeps me/us from presuming my ways of doing things and my favorites are important in the large scheme, even in the rather small “large scheme” of living in community, parish, social group or workplace. Those of you who have similar experiences have probably found yourself growing in humility and acceptance. And that’s good! As the Constitutions of the Sisters of Notre Dame states: “To create communion requires a spirit of selflessness and asceticism.” In truth and love we deal with whatever happens in joy, sorrow, tension, differences, work, play, prayer. Whether the meal includes ice cream or lima beans, it’s all OK. “Small scale culture” practiced often enough may have an impact on large-scale culture of a country. At least Sr. Joan and Oprah said the same.
One Response
Yes, it is interesting to see how one new sister in even a larger community makes a difference. I frequently wonder what the sisters here thought when two years ago three of us moved in. Was it “oh, no” or “goody”?
It takes a risk to initiate something. Last night I took a risk and did something we don’t do here, and it turned out that the sisters were grateful. I enjoyed their surprise smiles.