Monday, December 6, 2010
A fog rolled in overnight, and left our trees covered in a frost that made for a morning winter wonderland. The evergreens all looked like they had been flocked, in a way better than any department store display. What a nice way to kick off St. Nicolas Day!
One of our alumni, who now works in a state office called. She remembers how special Christmas was during her days at St. Joseph’s, and wanted in turn, to do something for the children. Her office decided to adopt one of our homes and put together Christmas packages for the entire group. Many people are thinking about us as Christmas nears.
Today was our biggest mail day of the season, and staff is still sorting all the letters and cards that arrived. I am grateful to the generous folks who think about us this time of year, and in an ongoing way throughout the year. We will work hard to thank folks promptly, and answer questions that come in.
I drove 6 hours to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester for my 6 month checkup which will unfold over the next couple of days. I took time for heartfelt prayer in the car on the quiet and lonely roads. In my previous trips to Rochester, I’ve felt a sense of dread and sadness. A few times, I even felt nauseous remembering the chemotherapy. Tonight, was the first time I felt a total sense of peace. Maybe it was the Christmas lights lining the downtown streets. More likely it was a sense of gratitude for how far I’ve come in a short, though, intense year. I actually see myself in a better place spiritually than a year ago. I continue to hope and pray the physical comes along as well.
As alwsys, my prayers are with you, too. As of 6 weeks ago, last Tuesday, I am a 9-year, “survivor.” When I still worked in Boston, I found that my Commuter Rail, train ride in, was a nice time for solace and my daily prayers. Last August, that store was closed and I now am, “back on the road, again.” A 75-minute driving commute. I had to ask my, “up-stairs buddy,” St. Raphael to keep a sharper-eye on my commute. He’s (or She’s) also a Patron Saint for Healing. Please know, that I’ve asked him (or her) to keep you under his/she protection. (After all these years, it’s still hard for me to think, that all angels are pure spirits; there are no he’s or she’s) You’re probably younger than I am. I still work two jobs, three – if you count all my chores at home.
I started my donations to St. Joseph’s Indian School back in the mid-60’s. I’ve never earned a lot of money but I have no problem in sharing. As Bishop Sheen once said, “You give until it hurts; then you give some more.”
Health-wise, I wish you the best; I also wish, “health, welath, and happiness,” for all the children, too.
A most Holy Christmas-tide for you and the children.
“Missy,” Susan Pauline Bauer.