Sr Jeanine from Rimouski, Canada, reflects on the challenge of “staying at home” during the pandemic. A challenge that became even more complicated when her community had move house urgently.

 

 

At this present time, we are living one of the darkest times in history due to COVID-19. “Stay at home” is mandatory in order to protect ourselves and the lives of those we love as well as all those around us. This period of isolation, which is conducive to reflection, invites me to share with you how I am living this event.

Here in the community, we were already living in a very insecure situation as our house was up for sale and we could have been asked to move out at any time. Moreover, Mother Nature caused havoc by abundant rainfall seeping through the roof thereby requiring specialist workmen to repair the mess. In the meantime, COVID-19 made its appearance and the workmen had to interrupt their job to follow government regulations. So, we had to get out of this house. Thanks to the Lord and to our leaders, the Daughters of Jesus of Rimouski, we have a roof over our heads, a warm and welcoming house to accommodate the three of us.

 

Reflection

 

With our various activities as food for thought, we take time to reflect and give thanks to God for our good fortune and ask Him to protect all those affected by the drama of COVID-19. We remember in a special way the elderly who surely find it difficult to live this separation from their children and grandchildren.

 

Worse still, there exists a blatant lack of necessary care in our long-term care homes, care that society should be normally offering the elderly. What a distressful situation for the families concerned!

 

 

Our society will have to change and act responsibly by enacting laws that respect the dignity and the right to a decent and happy life for all its citizens.

 

 

A path to follow

 

This time of retreat is an occasion – through the news that is relayed to us – to realise how difficult it is to obey laws that interfere with our freedom of movement and action. As far as I’m concerned, it is an opportunity to become more aware that through everything that happens to me, I have a path to follow, that of walking confidently in the love of God who guides me. I have been meditating on Jeremiah 31,3: “I have loved you with an everlasting love, so I am constant in my affection for you.” I pray that everyone may be blessed with this same liberating trust.

 

Sr Jeanine D’Amours dj

Rimouski, Canada