Has it been 4 days since I last posted? Seems like yesterday! I guess I'm just not used to the "free time" I've had this week, after the last 12 weeks away from home (essentially)! I got myself out of "whack" by actually spending a few nights at home with Marilyn, Alicia and Lily. I'll just 'hit the highlights' of these past few days, then post my Stations of the Cross that I promised for Lent.
We finally promoted someone to run the Bakersfield center, and while I will still make a trip down at least once a week to continue his training, at least I won't be "living" there. On my way home Saturday, I drove by the newest parish in the diocese in Modesto--one that I had not visited yet on my pilgrimage. It is Holy Family parish. I had driven by, but never gone in to the parking lot or the church because I just didn't have the time. But this time I thought, "Hey, it's Lent! Go in and say 'Thanks' to Jesus!" When I went to the front door though, it was locked. A sign said to go to the office if I wanted to go in. As I was searching for the office, I noticed 'signposts' in no apparent order out in a huge field adjacent to the church. The closer I got, I realized that there was also a path. It was the Stations of the Cross in an outdoor setting! I had never seen that before. It was pretty cool. I grabbed my camera and took a couple of pictures, then started the prayers. It was actually a pretty good walk and made meditation on the Stations easier for some reason. The pictures weren't very good, so I won't post them. When I told Mom about it, she said St. Annes is thinking about, or has discussed in the past doing something similar. I think I'll ask Father Brandon about it when I see him Sunday.
As far as work goes, since my area was basically cut in 1/2 geographically, it's a lot less stressful, once I get the initial drive to Fresno out of the way. I've been able to spend more time in prayer and reflection, but I get so involved in that that I forget to post on my blog. I'm sitting here looking at my surroundings and it couldn't be more conducive to prayer if I tried. Although the company apartment is two bedrooms, I am obviously just staying in one. I have no furniture except a TV tray to put my computer on, an inflatable twin bed, a sheet, a blanket and a microwave. And of course my computer. I remember seeing a movie once that showed how monks and other religious lived in their "cells". I think I know what it feels like now. I was just thinking I will need to get a small crucifix to hang on the wall. I bought some CDs of Gregorian Chants to listen to when I get tired of watching the live stream of EWTN on my computer. Then I'll be set.
I went to dinner at a buffet-style restaurant tonight (as soon as I get the company refrigerator over to my apartment I can start cooking my own meals). I crossed myself and said grace. Whenever I do this, it amazes me how many stares I get. I decided that for Lent, I will make a special effort to show my faith in public places with simple signs of my belief like this. It can be quite powerful.
You know what? When I started this post, I said I would continue with my presentation of the Stations. But I am so tired all of a sudden that I think I'll just turn in. Back to my regular reflections and posts tomorrow. Good night.
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