Community

I have been reflecting on a series of interactions today, trying to figure out the underlying connection among them and come to recognize that it is "community," in this case "religious community."

Whatever your community of choice is (or God's choice for you), I hope you will relate (or when you find it will relate) whether you are a professed religious, in formation, in discernment, or an associate.

Today's experiences all related to being at home, to experiencing the attention of family when one has been away a while or just returned from a trip, the attentiveness of an aunt or godmother or older sister who truly wants to listen to what you have to share, whose "how are you?" greeting expects a truthful and detailed answer and not just "fine, thank you."

At home among community -- it's more than just being with a group of people you like, it's about being a part of them and them a part of you -- whether or not you are in the same place at the same time. Of course, it's not perfect because those who comprise community (whatever community that may be) are imperfect people, but in reality that enriches community experience rather than detracting from it.

At home among community, "for where your treasure is, there, too, is your heart."

Contemplate the community (or communities) that enliven you. What is it you treasure most about them, and why?