Sharing our struggles

I called Fr. Jim, a fellow SCJ, to check in. He’s been of great support during this time of illness and recuperation.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Sharon, a friend of one of our houseparents, dropped in to share an idea. She had the text from the apology to American Indians Congress passed in December. What she has done with people is gather them together, read through what is said, and then talk about it as a group. Folks were encouraged to share their reaction.

There were tears, a little anger, but mostly gratitude for a new beginning. It may work out well to do something similar with our older students … to make them aware of the past, but also present efforts at healing and reconciliation.

Last night my leg was hurting and I didn’t sleep well. That turned my post lunch siesta into a three hour deep sleep that I needed; but that shot the entire afternoon. I just have to pay attention to what my body needs and accept it when I’m forced to slow down.

I called Fr. Jim, a fellow SCJ, to check in. He’s been of great support during this time of illness and recuperation. I can be honest with him about the times I lack energy and motivation. Ironically, it helps rekindle the fire within. We all need people with whom we can share the struggles.

Author: St. Joseph's Indian School

At St. Joseph's Indian School, our privately-funded programs for Lakota (Sioux) children in need have evolved over 90 years of family partnership, experience and education. Because of generous friends who share tax-deductible donations, Native American youth receive a safe, stable home life; individual counseling and guidance; carefully planned curriculum based on Lakota culture and individual student needs and tools to help build confidence, boost self-esteem and improve cultural awareness. All of this helps children to live a bright, productive, possibility-filled future.

4 thoughts on “Sharing our struggles”

  1. Fr.Steve-
    YOU HAVE HELPED SO MANY; IT IS TIME FOR YOU TO LET OTHERS’ HELP YOU; when needed. We all have PRIDE, but as YOU have been teaching for so long; for others’ to let GOD have control, now it is YOUR TURN to take in ALL the encouragement and help, and others’ listening that is put forth, for you. GOD STILL HAS CONTROL. REST and RELAX; as your body tells YOU to do so.
    Everyone LOVES YOU VERY MUCH…..WE WANT YOU WELL.
    Have a SAFE,PEACEFUL, and RESTFUL’ DAY!!
    GOD BLESS’-
    Cynthia

    Reply

  2. Fr. STEVE, I LOVE THE TRUE FIRST AMERICAN
    THE INDIANS ARE WOUNDERFUL PEOPLE.
    WE OPWE THEM MUCH. NEVEN

    Reply

  3. You offer the lessons so well.! No one could have stated the need we have for one another any better than you have stated it in your blog today.
    Rest when you can..with no regret..and know that you are loved..
    Always,
    Mia and Bob

    Reply

  4. “We all need people with whom we can share the sruggles.” Amen, Fr.Steve! Truer words were never spoken. There have been many times when I have only made it through because of the ones who love me and embrace me — problems, flaws, weaknesses and all.

    God Bless You. Jean

    Reply

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