As a writer, I believe that to be true. Otherwise, why would I write? The words I commit to paper matter. They are a part of me- my heart, mind, and spirit- cascaded out into the world. This has always been the case. I choose my words carefully; I wait for them to come.
The story goes that as a child I didn't speak right away. It's not that I didn't know how; I simply waited. I waited until I had the words I needed, the words I wanted. And then, when I was sure of myself, I spoke.
In a way, I find solace in words. Not so much the security or the certainty they can bring but the way they help us to grapple with our experiences and give us the tools to try to convey a shared sense of being. Even in moments that can't be summed up in quick phrases, there is poetry. The slow onslaught of words trying to reconcile the indescribable.
And then, when words fail, there is meaning too. The stillness and silence of touch... expression... compassion. That is a humbling experience. One that places us before the Mystery of life, the magnanimity of being, and the grace of God. In that place, we are vulnerable beyond words.
And then, only then, can we choose to surrender to what matters and discover all that the words seek to convey.
____________________________________________
Speaking of the matter of words, here are two recent pieces I've done:
- "Saying Words"- My most recent column for the Global Sisters Report's Horizons feature about the reality of being a young woman religious today. This piece focuses on my public profession of vows and the role of words in that commitment to this life.
- "Can the Church Recruit the Young?"- A radio interview (::literally "saying words"...get it??::) I did for Marketplace Weekend, National Public Radio's digest of everyday living and economics. Part of the show's Labor Day weekend episode, this casual conversation deals with why religious life is a viable option, what role simplicity and authenticity play in attracting new members, and what it means to be a face of the Church in an era of scandal and student loans.
Very nice, Colleen! I also love words and search for those which might convey what I think and how I feel. But words are elusive. You're right....we must wait until they sort themselves out before we can use them to communicate. God Bless you and never stop writing. The written word has power.
ReplyDeleteJust listened to the Marketplace conversation and read your article. First rate and just plain good. Thanks! Please keep at it. Your fans in New England wish you well as the academic year gets underway!
ReplyDelete