Catherine's Cafe Vocation Blog

Being a Dominican means being open.   I find this openness a great gift.   Being a guest and witnessing another culture’s traditions widens my tent poles and calls me to new truths.   What a privilege.   When I fail to be open to a new idea or another’s way of life, I feel it.   I have to admit that I sense my judgmental nature.        Recently, I attended a dance recital by a Mexican Folkloric Dance Troupe.   It was spectacular - full of color and music and joy.   I was aware of experiencing something ancient and deeply rooted in a people’s love for God, for nature, and for each other.         Jesus walked with openness to others everywhere he went.   He taught us how.   Our Dominican lifestyle offers our world this reflection of his compassion and mercy.   Each of us has the opportunity of being the healing presence our Earth so badly needs right now. How about you, ...

I love New Year’s Eve!!   For many years now it has been a very reflective day for me.   I love to honor the past year and prepare for the next by remembering the joys and sorrows, people and places, accomplishments and challenges of the year.    I am always amazed by what I learn in the process. Here are some questions that I use.   You may want to change some of them or start over and write your own.   1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year? 2. What was the single most challenging thing that happened? 3. What was an unexpected joy this past year? 4. What was an unexpected sorrow? 5. Pick three words to describe 2015. 6. What were the best books you read this year? 7. With whom were your most valuable relationships? 8. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally? 9. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually? 10. In what way(s) did you grow physically? 11. In what way(s) did you grow in your relationships w...