Can you imagine a reunion of your 62 sisters? Can you hear the gaggle of excited voices! The hellos. The echoes of 'what have you been up to'? The laughter echoing in the crowded hotel lobby full of bodies and suitcases at Peterborough's Best Western Plus ... I don't have to imagine this scene - I was in the midst of it.
On the picturesque banks of the Otonabee River – the river that beats like a heart, my religious Sisters and I met for our annual gathering. The 62 of us from our Federation of Sisters of St. Joseph came together to celebrate being in one another's company. Greeting each other was like coming home. We were warmly welcomed by the members of the planning committee attired in red cowboy hats in the spirit of Canada's 150th birthday. Our meeting room was also fittingly adorned with festive Canada finery.
As usual, our speakers were from our own ranks, with their own extensive life experience. Ranging in age from 50 to 90 plus, we pondered maturing with grace and graciousness. In my London home community, I recently had a first-hand experience of the 100th birthday of two sisters who model gracious aging. Here is the interesting paradox of aging. While our physical ability lessens, our spiritual capacity often deepens. This is the gift of community living and life experience.
To keep a wholesome balance, we spent leisurely evenings playing games, and enjoying each other's company. I can't wait to celebrate the 20th anniversary of our gathering next year.
Loretta Hagen, CSJ
