Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Departure from the Secular

Here is a photo of Br. Adam and I, when I worked in the gift shop this Sunday. It was my return to Religious Retail. I really had a great time, and they had quite a few people in there buying when it opened. They had a large group of pilgrims there for prayer, lunch, and more prayer.
I have tons of religious art in my house. Some even from the Vatican itself. I have all original secular paintings in my house, but in all honesty my religious art is my favorite. Studying it brings me great peace. I have a huge rosary collection, and yes I say it daily (an all of you are included in my prayers). I love the solace prayer and meditation brings me. I am proud to be a Benedictine because I love their simple rule, "Your work is your prayer"! I made the chalice for the Monks here, and have made other chalices. I can't explain what it means to me personally, when one of my pieces of pottery is raised at the altar. It truly humbles me. I am very, very humble actually, no matter what George says..:) I am extremely contemplative, so being able to interact with everyone on BABB helps me, or shall I say grounds me to the secular world in which I have to live, and thrive.
To put it frankly, you would never see me dancing naked on a pole, unless I was being barbecued by cannibals. For me it's all about respecting people, and being respected. I think that is what I love about being a part of the monastic environment. Even though I am a woman I am not treated any different than they treat each other. I wish I could share some of the greatest moments in my life with all of you, but I can't put it into words. When dealing with spiritual epiphanies there are no words.
So I have learned this lesson in life, "Treat everyone as you want to be treated", and if anyone treats you like shit, well treat them like shit in return. lol lol lol...:) When St. Paul asked Jesus, "Who is my neighbor" Jesus replied, "Anyone who loves you, and treats you with respect" So that is the rule I live by. Boy I have seen some nuns blast people, and really rip into them like chef Gordon Ramsey....Women Warriors they are, they don't take any shit from anyone...:)
So back to the secular world again, laughs, fun, and all the weirdness, and craziness life can offer!

3 comments:

  1. You treat everyone beautifully Maureen! AND you have great hair :)

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  2. Gary is correct. You treat everyone wonderful and you DO have great hair!
    I'm glad to know you!

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  3. Thanks friends....thanks for the great hair complement. I don't do a darn thing with it but wash and condition. I am finally getting a little gray, but I love it! I adore Gray Hair, I think it is so cool.

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