I’m forty-four years old and when I go to the pool, I bring my rubber duck. It isn’t just any rubber duck, but a special gift from a friend in memory of good times had in our monastery pool. When I take it with me for a dip, my friend is present – not exactly a sacramental, but it possesses powers beyond my understanding.
This week I have been enjoying my first week in our pool since the beginning of summer. I’ve gotten up to a few heart-pounding laps – nothing seriously athletic yet – and enjoyed the warmth of the sun on my skin. The last few days have been extra fun. I’ve enjoyed the company of two young women – one, an Affiliate of ours enjoying an extended visit and the other, a brand new friend of our community. Their energy delights me. There have been fearless dives into the deep end for those brightly colored rings that sink. There have been many laps done in near perfect Olympic-form. And, lots of laughter, sputtering and few mouthfuls of chlorine! Swimming is always good for me – body and soul. But this week, it was just downright fun!
In 1968, Sister Ernestine Johann, OSB was our prioress. Through her wisdom the in-ground pool was installed for our summer camps. Praise GOD for Sister Ernestine’s inspired vision. A pool of this type today would certainly be beyond our means. When the pool opens around Memorial Day, there is an audible squeal of excitement among those of us who are “regulars.” And the “die-hards” swim until October! (I usually make it through Labor Day, wimp that I am.) The pool has played a significant part in my monastic vocation. I think I'll leave that story for tomorrow.
Blessings and love,
- Sister Vicki
PS – Don’t forget the sunblock!
This week I have been enjoying my first week in our pool since the beginning of summer. I’ve gotten up to a few heart-pounding laps – nothing seriously athletic yet – and enjoyed the warmth of the sun on my skin. The last few days have been extra fun. I’ve enjoyed the company of two young women – one, an Affiliate of ours enjoying an extended visit and the other, a brand new friend of our community. Their energy delights me. There have been fearless dives into the deep end for those brightly colored rings that sink. There have been many laps done in near perfect Olympic-form. And, lots of laughter, sputtering and few mouthfuls of chlorine! Swimming is always good for me – body and soul. But this week, it was just downright fun!
In 1968, Sister Ernestine Johann, OSB was our prioress. Through her wisdom the in-ground pool was installed for our summer camps. Praise GOD for Sister Ernestine’s inspired vision. A pool of this type today would certainly be beyond our means. When the pool opens around Memorial Day, there is an audible squeal of excitement among those of us who are “regulars.” And the “die-hards” swim until October! (I usually make it through Labor Day, wimp that I am.) The pool has played a significant part in my monastic vocation. I think I'll leave that story for tomorrow.
Blessings and love,
- Sister Vicki
PS – Don’t forget the sunblock!
