By Sister Carole Shinnick, SSND
We find ourselves in very trying times where hope is a scarce commodity.
Our national scene is dark and scary. Our experience of religious life is challenging and mysterious. In both settings I ask - we ask -
What is ours to do?
Before his death, dear Pope Francis gave us the answer: “Be Pilgrims of hope.”
So, I pray for our broken world as I watch the rising morning sun. Sometimes I clap for it!
I see light falling like healing grace on all the hurting parts of our world and on all those doing the hurting - including me.
I contact my senators and congressperson to register my concerns.
When out shopping or at CVS, I smile at people, say good morning, or exchange in a little conversation. These “micro-encounters” generally leave both of us feeling quite lifted!
In other words, I don’t do much at all.
I just try to do what I can with intention - to communicate connectedness, respect, and hope.
I try not to judge my efforts, but rather to trust that the small, quiet choices of all of us invisible little people can be mighty enough to soak our world with hope, encouragement, and the grace to embrace each blessed day.
Sister Carole lives in Silver Spring, MD.
