"it is in Giving that we Receive"

I returned from the "Red Ribbon Ride" just shy of two weeks ago. As the ride reached its conclusion, it became obvious to me the lesson I was meant to take from the ride this year.

As opposed to previous years, I opted not to report each day to the SJA website on the progress of Team Oz.  I didn't want to be burdened each night with that responsibility.  I wanted to enjoy the ride.

Much to my surprise what I discovered was that I didn't take in as much on the ride because "I didn't have to" for the benefit of others not there.  My experience was diminished!  I had time to concentrate on "what body part hurt," as opposed to taking in what natural beauty surrounded me and what human kindness' were displayed among peoples. All in all, the lesson I learned was that to give of yourself benefits yourself!  Live generously, live big, it is in your best interest. I now believe more strongly than ever before that "It is in giving that we receive."  The prayer we frequently say at the end of mass, the prayer of St. Francis, is to be taken to heart.  The wisdom found therein, profound.

The life lesson I take from this first Red Ribbon Ride, is that doing whatever I can in the way of work or volunteering makes my days on this earth that much richer. It may at times seem like what I've been asked to do is "too much effort or too much work," but the alternative of choosing "not to do or help" can be an even heavier burden! 

Edie Kalweit has been a St. Joan of Arcer for 25 years now. Now that her children are grown, there is time to participate more fully in activities taking place at St. Joan's.

In order to bring balance to each of our lives, there are times when we need to say "no." But equally, there are times we need to believe that our saying "yes" makes St. Francis smile. It is somewhat miraculous, the powers God gives us, when we choose to "do for others."

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