3 Minute Retreat - Community & You

“We have all known the long loneliness and we have learned that the only solution is love and that love comes with community.”  ― Dorothy Day, The Long Loneliness: The Autobiography of the Legendary Catholic Social Activist

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I have been struck lately in a stronger way than usual with the idea of community and what that really means. Every month I host a Candlelight Labyrinth Meditation walk. It is a 100% Community Service offering. My daughter helps me for her service hours, which I am truly grateful for, for doing it alone is not just a lot of work, but it is lonely. 

I have been told to let it go, for the numbers aren't high and it tends to cost me money I don't have to spare. So, why do I do it? I have known loneliness. I don't think there is a person out there who has not known loneliness. For those who embrace this idea too often, these events are where they find a connection.

I am truly inspired every month, whether it be one or thirty folks who come out in the course of 2.5 hours. Never has someone come and gone without connecting with me before or after. I felt the needed and welcome connection within them.

How are you acting as 'community' daily? Really think about this...do you show up? Do you put your actions where your beliefs are?

We are no one and nothing but alone without each other. That was the foundation of this beautiful woman's work. Dorothy Day did not see the problems of person. She looked past their physical being into their eyes and soul and said, 'welcome home.'

How can you be 'home' to someone today?