The hour drive each way was actually quite relaxing, and I listened to CD’s that friends had sent. I’m eclectic in my musical tastes and listened to church music, Columbian Cumbias and traditional Hawaiian songs.
Sunday, July 25, 2010
I like to shop local, but there are always a few things that I can’t get in Chamberlain, South Dakota. Every so often I take a trip to the “Big City” (in this case Mitchell, population 14,000) to stock up on supplies.
This was my first shopping spree since I had the surgery two months ago … so my list had grown. Pushing a shopping cart around the big box stores is not as much fun when your leg hurts, but after a couple of stops I managed to fill the cart with the things I needed.
The hour drive each way was actually quite relaxing, and I listened to CD’s that friends had sent. I’m eclectic in my musical tastes and listened to church music, Columbian Cumbias and traditional Hawaiian songs.
In the evening, Lou – former student and parishioner – dropped by. He heard I was recovering and wanted to see how I was doing. After we chatted a while he said it had been many years since he’d been back, so we took a tour around campus. I learned many things from him, especially how the dorms were set up during the time before we had homes.
I took it easy today, and spent most of my time at home, puttering around with different odds and ends. In the evening I drove 40 miles to the parish in Stephan for mass.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
I took it easy today, spending most of my time at home puttering around with different odds and ends. In the evening I drove 40 miles to the parish in Stephan for mass. My former parishioners have let me know they’ve been praying hard for my recovery. This was a good time to join them for prayer. Being with them in person reassured them that our prayers are being answered.
It had been a while since I’d been to church there. As the families continue to grow and flourish I saw several new babies that I had to get introduced to – new life for the families and continued life for the church.
Last year was the first time I was able to participate as a supporter, and was very moved by the whole event. Little did I imagine that one year later I’d be wearing a survivor’s shirt.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Today was a memorable day in three ways:
Brother Clay’s vow renewal
Shooting a TV interview
Taking part in Chamberlain’s Relay for Life
Brother Clay renews annual vows
When first joining the SCJ’s, one must profess annual vows for at least three years before being eligible for Final Vows. This gives you the chance to really decide if this vocation is where you find meaning and are fulfilled.
This morning we went to the downtown parish for mass, and were joined by two of the SCJ priests in Lower Brule as well. Before Fr. Bill, Clay renewed his vows and prayed an act of oblation. Watching his fervor, I prayed that I can recapture more of the passion I had in my early days; to give myself more fully to God. Afterward we all went out to breakfast at Casey’s restaurant.
Brule band member visits St. Joseph’s
Paul LaRouche of the musical group Brule produces a TV show for RFD TV. It is called Hidden Heritage. Paul is from the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. He was adopted as an infant, and never knew of his heritage and roots until he was an adult. His show highlights positive projects and people in Indian country.
Brule performs around the country, and Paul has been asked many times about
St. Joseph Indian School. He figured what we do here would make an interesting feature. Paul has known about St. Joseph’s since childhood – remembering pictures stuck to the refrigerator in his home.
We sat outside to take advantage of the lovely day, and Paul put me right at ease during the interview. I gave an overview of our programs. We don’t have many students on campus these last weeks of summer, but three of our high school students who are working here were able to show him around and talk about their experience.
When we were touring the museum, visitors found out who Paul was. There were a few who immediately bought one of his CD’s to have autographed.
Chamberlain’s Relay for Life
The last event of the day was the Relay for Life … to remember those who have died from cancer and celebrate those who have survived. Last year was the first time I was able to participate as a supporter, and was very moved by the whole event. Little did I imagine that one year later I’d be wearing a survivor’s shirt and walking the first lap with others who have done battle with cancer and come out on top.
The festivities were cut short when a big storm rolled in and sent everyone scattering for cover. We got pea and marble sized hail and heavy winds. A full but wonderful day all around.
Fr. Steve walking during Friday's Relay for Life photo courtesy of Chamberlain/Oacoma Sun
I used to walk to church every day, but now it takes too long, and I miss not being about to leisurely soak in the break of morn. I also mourn the limits of not walking as well as I would like.
Thursday, July 22, 2010
I drove to mass this morning with the windows rolled down; the land smelled fresh and new after a heavy night’s rain. I used to walk to church every day, but now it takes too long, and I miss not being about to leisurely soak in the break of morn. I also mourn the limits of not walking as well as I would like.
I only had one meeting today. I spent a lot of time in the office to begin working on schedules and calendar events. The new school year isn’t that far away.
For the last 6 months, it really has been one day at a time. But I’m starting to think long term again – in a good and healthy way. When I’m aware of important events coming down the road, I am more likely to do the preparation that makes them more successful.
This evening the folks in our dining hall held a baby shower for a couple on staff who recently had twins. Karla works in the kitchen; Brenton in our Rec Center. The girls were born two months early, spending their first five weeks in the hospital. They’re tiny, but lovely. I think of babies as one of God’s greatest miracles. Yet I also see their dependence and remember the responsibility it puts on all of us to build a society where all children (and adults, too!) can flourish.
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.
I started the day at the eye doctor for my bi-annual exam. I wondered if the surgery or medications would have any effect on my eyesight.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
I started the day at the eye doctor for my bi-annual exam. I wondered if the surgery or medications would have any effect on my eyesight. I’m happy to report I got a clean bill of health there … nice to know part of me is still in good working order.
Part of small town life is many people know your story. I didn’t know the technician very well who first saw me, but she didn’t have to ask if I’d had any changes in my health history. She knew all about the cancer because I’d been on their prayer list at church.
Later in the day, some visitors stopped in at the museum. One couple from Ohio had called ahead weeks ago and I planned time to see them. Another group from Tennessee just dropped in and toured the museum and campus until I was done with afternoon meetings.
People ask such insightful questions about our school and programs when they visit and appreciate seeing where their donations go. One of the folks from Tennessee – fairly new to St. Joseph’s – said, “I had to see if it was real.”
Because of distance so many of our donors don’t get the chance to see the campus up close and personal. But we enjoy seeing folks who are able to make the trek.
My main complaint is pain in the nerves of my right foot. The doctors say that will take some months to heal.
Monday, July 19, 2010
Tina, St. Joseph’s Receptionist, reminded me that periodically I need to give a ‘how are you feeling’ update on the blog. Apparently that’s what many people call to find out.
My main complaint is pain in the nerves of my right foot. The doctors say that will take some months to heal. In the meantime, it’s tiring to stand for more than about ten minutes … when I walk, it’s with a limp.
I’m not ready to sprint to first base anytime soon. The medicines I take make me sleepy during the day, and I don’t sleep a full night’s rest. But I’ve been cancer-free since my last checkup, and I’ll get checked over again in September.
Today I was back at the office after a full week of being away. On my bad days I dread the backlog of phone calls and mail. On my good days I see them as opportunities of grace since I’m in contact with many diverse people from all over the country. Instead of grumbling about the interruptions in what I had “planned” to do, I need to always humbly see all those connections as part of God’s plan for the day.
Consider it either a small triumph or an act of craziness, but I was up early and completed my first entire yoga workout since the surgery.
Sunday, July 18, 2010
Consider it either a small triumph or an act of craziness, but I was up early and completed my first entire yoga workout since the surgery.
My foot has hurt a lot from where the nerves were cut; other muscles are sore from lack of use. So it’s necessary to loosen them up and use them.
“There’s something very spiritual
about praying with one shoe!”
I was in the chapel praying morning prayers and had kicked off my right shoe because it doesn’t hurt as much that way. Fr. Matt walked by and looked in and quipped, “There’s something very spiritual about praying with one shoe!” A good laugh to start my morning.
My 55 mile trip to Promise, South Dakota for mass was peaceful and meditative as I looked over the hills and river valleys. In places you can see ten miles or more onto the prairie. With clouds and sunshine and shades of grass it never looks the same twice.
Twenty people were in church, and I knew everyone’s name. When I was in the parish, if someone wasn’t sitting in their pew, you usually knew the reason … they were either visiting relatives or were muddied in! After mass we stayed a full hour in the hall – telling stories, laughing and catching up.
The road back to the highway home was 28 miles of gravel. I didn’t come across any other cars. There’s some wide open spaces out here. I had a baseball game on the radio to keep me company so the three hour trip home passed quickly and enjoyably.
I took it easy today; slept in and decided to stay around the rectory. I had a few phone calls from folks who didn’t get the chance to see me, and two people dropped by to say hello.
Saturday, July 17, 2010
I took it easy today; slept in and decided to stay around the rectory.
I had a few phone calls from folks who didn’t get the chance to see me, and two people dropped by to say ‘hello’.
Mildred presented me with two beautiful star quilted pillows. “This is gift of thanksgiving that you made it through your surgery,” she said, “and I’m praying for your continued healing.”
Romey also wanted to check in. His first question was not about my health, but he asked, “How are those Bears going to do this year?” We talked a little football and a little family … in a way that was so familiar and comfortable.
The Saturday evening mass in Eagle Butte brought some more reunions. One Sunday a month the parish celebrates that month’s birthdays. We had a potluck and birthday cake and chance to hang around for fellowship.
One young man came to church after having been away for eight years. “What is it that brought you back today?,” I asked. “Emptiness,” he answered, “and wanting something more.”
I knew him when he was a child growing up in Cherry Creek, and he couldn’t believe I remembered hiking up to Holy Hill with him and groups of youngsters led by Sister Cheri. We’d look for tinpsila (wild turnips) and give the kids some fun time away from struggles they may be having in their homes. He has been struggling with drugs and alcohol, and I know it’s a long road back. I encouraged him to keep on the good road, and continue to look for people who can be of support and encouragement.
To kick off the Eagle Butte centennial, the Pony Express and several wagon trains rolled into town. Each encounter with people, even the small ones, can be a lasting occasion of God’s grace.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
To kick off the Eagle Butte centennial, the Pony Express and several wagon trains rolled into town. Riders left the capital in Pierre early in the morning and rode 2 and 3 mile legs across country to deliver the mail to the main street just before supper.
The governor sent a proclamation proclaiming “Eagle Butte Centennial Days” and the saddle bag that passed between over 30 riders also contained a copy of the first Eagle Butte newspaper and letters to various towns folk. Afterward, everyone gathered in the tent set up on the main street for a BBQ buffalo feed.
In the evening, folks in town held a talent show. Singing karaoke – including a few guitar players – kept the songs and claps of appreciation rolling throughout the night. I wandered through the tent, saying hello to old friends and meeting youngsters who have been born since I was last in town.
It’s surprising to me which folks are most excited when they see me; the folks I worked closely with on altar society or parish projects, or walked with them through a family death or illness that I know will have lots to say. But there were several young adults that I remember as children that I only had occasional interaction with … yet some remember me as a long lost friend that was good to them and their family. You never know the impact you make, or the seeds you plant.
Each encounter with people, even the small ones, can be a lasting occasion of God’s grace.
