In this autumn season, I’ve been reminiscing about my childhood school years. A lot has changed since the mid-twentieth century, yet what we long for, what delights and motivates us, these things seem to endure.
I wonder why some of our interactions with others, casual encounters, conversations, and even quiet moments stay in our memories – sometimes for years. Perhaps it is because we still harvest insight or meaning from them. Maybe they are blessed moments that teach and guide us in different ways at different stages of our lives, enlightening the present and preparing us for the future.
I remember a small conversation I once had with my mother. She was in the neighborhood of my school at dismissal time and was waiting for me at the school’s back door. As I came out with my schoolmates, there she was, her usual smiling self. At fifteen years old, it felt awkward to have my mom standing so close to my social space. I suggested that perhaps next time, she could wait for me near the Church building – about a hundred feet away. I would find her.
I don’t think she said anything in reply.
I hope I didn’t hurt her feelings. She actually was an alumna of the school and had more status there than I did. At fifteen, it’s easy to get preoccupied with one’s own awkward moment. Maybe it’s true at any age. Feelings are important to acknowledge and from which to learn. I was still learning to be sensitive to others’ feelings.
I realize now that my mother, the person who brought me into the world, who loved me, was blessing me with her smiling presence.
I can’t recall what we talked about on the walk home. My mother was a patient and attentive listener.
“Happy the one who finds a friend, who speaks to attentive ears.” (Sirach 25:9)
In our prayer life, we open our hearts to the feelings that come when we encounter Mystery. We welcome God’s Spirit to help guide our insight into life’s terrain – even the awkward moments.
This Month of the Holy Rosary can be an opportunity to renew a prayerful listening to the Mysteries of our faith and to be attentive to life’s blessings. We can find in the prayer of the Rosary ways to “walk home,” listen, converse, grow, and feel the Lord’s presence in our lives.