Recycling our Lives


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Sisters often joke about never retiring, just recycling. Most of us have retired from teaching and are now doing a variety of volunteer work including visiting the sick, doing handiwork, serving at the switchboard, doing dishes, housecleaning, writing and editing, working in the monastery library, chauferring, reading to the blind, hair care, and more. After all, the Benedictine motto is "Pray and Work."

Being involved and contributing keeps us active and may be the reason sisters live so long. Each new day brings its challenges and opportunities. All of us can give something no matter how old we are, whether it's a smile, a hug, a loving touch, an act of kindness. Several sisters have discovered new gifts after they retired from teaching. One 90-year-old does iconography, another knits baby afghans, another quilts, others lead prayers for the sick. One in her late 80s still ministers at the city jail.

These are amazing women who inspire me daily with their willingness to give of their time and talent. Of course, lay people do this too and often add to their years. Some still work in their gardens and care for grandchildren. Those with less energy and poor health can still pray, write notes, and listen to those who have stories to tell and need an audience. We all want to feel needed.


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