Hello everyone, it is time to shut down this blog.
On May 1, I began to unpack in Lexington KY.
My address is
3099 Kirklevington Dr. #39
Lexington KY 40517
859 368 0666
katyzatsick@insightbb.com
Prior to coming to Lexington, I received the payout from the divorce settlement. Since 9/08/08 I lost over $100,000 in retirement money because Dow did not manage the accounts. I believe Dow could have moved the moneys between different Fidelity accounts and gotten it out of the stock market.
Whatever, the divorce settlement has been completed and I am on my own for the very first time as an adult. I married at 21 and lived with Joe until Lisa's birth when he abandoned me. I was a single parent for ten years until I married Dow in 1976. I lived with him for 30 years until Walter Reed in 2005. We separated at Walter Reed where I lived with our son Jason while he tried to adjust to his "new normal." I returned to Chicago in June 2006 and Dow and I jointly agreed to a divorce that fall.
I moved out of the home and lived in Chicago until now. My life is in God's hands. I will start a new blog, probably next week. I am thinking "On the way to becoming a Roman Catholic Woman Priest."
Blessings to all
Especially each of us who is a mother or who fills that role for the children we love as Aunt or friend, Nana.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Friday, April 10, 2009
What a Good Friday It Is!
I attended the 29th Good Friday Walk for Peace and Justice sponsored by the 8th Day Center for Justice located here in Chicago. I "retired" a day early to be able to attend. Last year they walked in a literal blizzard, today sunny but with very cold winds. The walk does actually take the 3 hours from noon to 3 PM. The theme today was "Who will carry the Word? To Remember, to Speak, to Act, to Imagine"
I will list the Stations:
1. First A blessing in the Native American tradition with a prayer to the four directions.
2. Condemned: The Military in Schools (Chicago has the most Jr ROTC in its high schools and has a high school dedicated to each of the branches of service!)
3. Burdened: Workers Rights
4. Helped in the Struggle: Immigration
5. Women Weeping: Gender Based Violence and War
6. Falling: Environment, prayers for the Earth, Water, Fire, Air, all of humanity.
7. Grieving Mothers: War, Justice for Columbia
8. Stripped: Torture (powerful stories of torture from the prisoners of the Iraq war)
9. Executed: Justice in the Roman Catholic Church
10. Resurrection: Who will carry the word?
They were all wonderful with the mimes who carried the cross and posed at each station.
But the "Oh my gosh what will the RCC do now?" was station 9: Justice in the RCC. This station was sponsored and written by members of the national Call to Action, and the Chicagoland chapter members.
The readings for this station included:
a. I am a Catholic I am gay...
b. I am a Catholic woman and I am called to be a priest... (statement by Rev. Barbara Zeman, 1st RCWP for Chicago, ordained November 1, 2008
c. I am a Catholic deacon... (challenged Card G on the pedophile scandal, asking that he step down)
d. I am a worker at a Catholic hospital trying to support my family... (the RCC is notoriously anti union at its institutions)
e. I am reading from the letter written by Fr. Roy Bourgeois after his excommunication by Rome for attending an ordination of a Roman Catholic Women Priest (Janice from Lexington KY who will be my mentor)
We all were standing with our mouths open when they were done! I could not believe what I had just heard. An actual indictment of the behavior of the RCC as an institution both here in Chicago and nationally. There were no media present that I am aware of. But...I heard that one of the Cardinal's staff was present, probably a member of CTA? So soon...watch your local Chicago paper for the Cardinal's response, I mean this man called for the heads of Notre Dame to roll because they had the audacity to invite Pres. Obama to speak at graduation.
A GATHERING OF ANGELS
After that exhilarating ending to the 29th walk I headed into the State of IL building the Thompson Center for a cup of hot chocolate with friends. One was Betty Benson our wonderful model of minister for peace at the tender age of 92. We all admire her so much and know our retirement years will just be like hers! I sat down with Barbara and another friend. Pam sat with Betty a few tables away. I headed to the counter to order my dinner when I noticed Betty almost collapsing holding a cup and seemingly vomiting into it.
This is one independent lady, I have known her for the 8 years of the Peace Vigil and she has come out with us Tuesday after Tuesday. She does take the worst weather days off during the winter (I think I will to when I hit 90, God willing). Betty has no family as she told us, "My church is my family."
I look at Betty as she collapses against the wall vomiting into the coffee cup. I am a chaplain, but I am NOT medically trained. Now the friend that I was sitting with "happens" to be a MD. I run to Maureen, "Maureen, I hate to ask you and interrupt your meal but..." Maureen, runs to Betty and becomes MD not funny friend. I go back and eat and Maureen checks her out. "She has something wrong, probably gastro intestinal." We discuss whether in Maureen's opinion we should call 911 or get her to the ER. Maureen says, "Let's wait for a little bit and we will see what develops."
A little while later Pam comes to our table, "Betty wants to go home, how should we get her there?" Betty came by train and none of us thinks that is a good way for her to go home alone. We discuss putting her into a taxi, or our joining her on the train, she lives a couple of stops N of me on the red line. Dr. Maureen is definitely against Betty traveling anywhere alone.
Pam returns to Betty's table. A few minutes later she comes back to us, "See that young woman she is a member of Betty's church and is calling to get her a ride home."
A Gathering of Angels; good women taking care of one of our elders (we are all in our 60's). I thought God provides for Betty: a MD, a chaplain, a member of her church all there to see she gets home safely.
By this time Betty is feeling better and says, "I need to go to the bathroom." Both Maureen and I declare, "We will accompany you!" Betty looks perturbed but she knows neither of us will back down. We accompany her although now Betty is walking with more strength and balance. Both of us were worried about her falling down. Maureen walked to her right and I stayed back a step in case she decided to go over backwards, Maureen could catch either to the side or front.
Betty spends sometime vomiting in the bathroom and then declares, "I am alright" We accompany her back to the table. Pam informs us that "Betty's pastor is on the way and should be here very shortly." Betty puts on her coat and takes off up the escalator to meet him declaring, "I am feeling fine." Pam runs after her and Maureen says, "Go girl your weak patient is running away from you." Maureen had to head to the train another way. We laugh and I head up the escalator.
Pam and I wait with Betty while she talks about ending the death penalty "Should be a station next year!" with emphasis. Pam gets the call from the pastor who is pulling up outside to pick Betty up. We escort Betty to the car, he gives us a smile, we say, "Happy Easter Betty" and she is whisked away!
God is good, a faith community in action caring for a friend. My celebration of Easter now over, Pam and I head to the Red line N toward Edgewater for me and Evanston for her. It was good to be together, a powerful group of women.
Of course, I didn't pack anything today at all,
But oh what a first day of retirement for me!
The walk, the prayers, the sharing, the caring.
All Good all of God, we are one.
Blessings this week.
I will list the Stations:
1. First A blessing in the Native American tradition with a prayer to the four directions.
2. Condemned: The Military in Schools (Chicago has the most Jr ROTC in its high schools and has a high school dedicated to each of the branches of service!)
3. Burdened: Workers Rights
4. Helped in the Struggle: Immigration
5. Women Weeping: Gender Based Violence and War
6. Falling: Environment, prayers for the Earth, Water, Fire, Air, all of humanity.
7. Grieving Mothers: War, Justice for Columbia
8. Stripped: Torture (powerful stories of torture from the prisoners of the Iraq war)
9. Executed: Justice in the Roman Catholic Church
10. Resurrection: Who will carry the word?
They were all wonderful with the mimes who carried the cross and posed at each station.
But the "Oh my gosh what will the RCC do now?" was station 9: Justice in the RCC. This station was sponsored and written by members of the national Call to Action, and the Chicagoland chapter members.
The readings for this station included:
a. I am a Catholic I am gay...
b. I am a Catholic woman and I am called to be a priest... (statement by Rev. Barbara Zeman, 1st RCWP for Chicago, ordained November 1, 2008
c. I am a Catholic deacon... (challenged Card G on the pedophile scandal, asking that he step down)
d. I am a worker at a Catholic hospital trying to support my family... (the RCC is notoriously anti union at its institutions)
e. I am reading from the letter written by Fr. Roy Bourgeois after his excommunication by Rome for attending an ordination of a Roman Catholic Women Priest (Janice from Lexington KY who will be my mentor)
We all were standing with our mouths open when they were done! I could not believe what I had just heard. An actual indictment of the behavior of the RCC as an institution both here in Chicago and nationally. There were no media present that I am aware of. But...I heard that one of the Cardinal's staff was present, probably a member of CTA? So soon...watch your local Chicago paper for the Cardinal's response, I mean this man called for the heads of Notre Dame to roll because they had the audacity to invite Pres. Obama to speak at graduation.
A GATHERING OF ANGELS
After that exhilarating ending to the 29th walk I headed into the State of IL building the Thompson Center for a cup of hot chocolate with friends. One was Betty Benson our wonderful model of minister for peace at the tender age of 92. We all admire her so much and know our retirement years will just be like hers! I sat down with Barbara and another friend. Pam sat with Betty a few tables away. I headed to the counter to order my dinner when I noticed Betty almost collapsing holding a cup and seemingly vomiting into it.
This is one independent lady, I have known her for the 8 years of the Peace Vigil and she has come out with us Tuesday after Tuesday. She does take the worst weather days off during the winter (I think I will to when I hit 90, God willing). Betty has no family as she told us, "My church is my family."
I look at Betty as she collapses against the wall vomiting into the coffee cup. I am a chaplain, but I am NOT medically trained. Now the friend that I was sitting with "happens" to be a MD. I run to Maureen, "Maureen, I hate to ask you and interrupt your meal but..." Maureen, runs to Betty and becomes MD not funny friend. I go back and eat and Maureen checks her out. "She has something wrong, probably gastro intestinal." We discuss whether in Maureen's opinion we should call 911 or get her to the ER. Maureen says, "Let's wait for a little bit and we will see what develops."
A little while later Pam comes to our table, "Betty wants to go home, how should we get her there?" Betty came by train and none of us thinks that is a good way for her to go home alone. We discuss putting her into a taxi, or our joining her on the train, she lives a couple of stops N of me on the red line. Dr. Maureen is definitely against Betty traveling anywhere alone.
Pam returns to Betty's table. A few minutes later she comes back to us, "See that young woman she is a member of Betty's church and is calling to get her a ride home."
A Gathering of Angels; good women taking care of one of our elders (we are all in our 60's). I thought God provides for Betty: a MD, a chaplain, a member of her church all there to see she gets home safely.
By this time Betty is feeling better and says, "I need to go to the bathroom." Both Maureen and I declare, "We will accompany you!" Betty looks perturbed but she knows neither of us will back down. We accompany her although now Betty is walking with more strength and balance. Both of us were worried about her falling down. Maureen walked to her right and I stayed back a step in case she decided to go over backwards, Maureen could catch either to the side or front.
Betty spends sometime vomiting in the bathroom and then declares, "I am alright" We accompany her back to the table. Pam informs us that "Betty's pastor is on the way and should be here very shortly." Betty puts on her coat and takes off up the escalator to meet him declaring, "I am feeling fine." Pam runs after her and Maureen says, "Go girl your weak patient is running away from you." Maureen had to head to the train another way. We laugh and I head up the escalator.
Pam and I wait with Betty while she talks about ending the death penalty "Should be a station next year!" with emphasis. Pam gets the call from the pastor who is pulling up outside to pick Betty up. We escort Betty to the car, he gives us a smile, we say, "Happy Easter Betty" and she is whisked away!
God is good, a faith community in action caring for a friend. My celebration of Easter now over, Pam and I head to the Red line N toward Edgewater for me and Evanston for her. It was good to be together, a powerful group of women.
Of course, I didn't pack anything today at all,
But oh what a first day of retirement for me!
The walk, the prayers, the sharing, the caring.
All Good all of God, we are one.
Blessings this week.
Synchronicity II
I have been giving away my possessions over the last 6 months that I have been preparing to leave Chicago. Didn't quite know where, when, how but I have always known that living in this apartment was "transitional housing."
At Christmas time I divided up my ornament collection of 50 years and sent to family members including this niece, daughter of my brother Joseph Zatsick deceased since February 1991. Janice is in her 40's and has a grandchild of her own. I have not been close to her as space and time have intervened in our relationship. I have always felt a great love for these children as their parents could not parent (as our own parents failed), Joe because of his alcoholism and Dee because of her own woundedness.
As I have written before "Synchronicity is the conversion of events over which I have no control yet affirm my emotional and spiritual life and values."
Janice's email:
Hi Aunt Katie, I'm sorry I haven't written you before now. I loved the x-mas stuff and the pictures you send of my dad. But this last package was the best. You probably didn't know but I collect bells. Every one I have has a special meaning and these are wonderful. And I also collect green glass. Thank you so much for keeping me in you thoughts and prayers it really matters to me. Talk at you later Love Janet
I wanted to send Janice some special items as I have sorted and given away. This young woman has struggled with abuse and drug abuse. Her life in her younger years has "been wild." She has remarried and I think is now in a more healthy relationship and a better emotional space. I did not know that Janice collected bells. The two I sent her were a beautiful blue etched bell from my father's and mother's 50 anniversary gift collection and a clear lead crystal one from my trip to Poland in March 2001. The green glass was a small hand blown pitcher that I purchased on my first trip to Jamestown Va in the early 80's after our move to Blacksburg. I remember that I was fascinated by the glassblowing. The English had tried to get a glass industry going, it petered out. They blow the glass as an exhibit on early Colonial life.
So I didn't know of Janet's collections but I sent what touched my heart as I thought about her. I was so happy that the gifts were "touches of love" from her family. I know Joe loved Janice and all his children even as he could not express it. It is enough, I cried when I read her email this morning and wanted to share with you.
Blessings of love and friendship and family on this Easter weekend of death and new life,
At Christmas time I divided up my ornament collection of 50 years and sent to family members including this niece, daughter of my brother Joseph Zatsick deceased since February 1991. Janice is in her 40's and has a grandchild of her own. I have not been close to her as space and time have intervened in our relationship. I have always felt a great love for these children as their parents could not parent (as our own parents failed), Joe because of his alcoholism and Dee because of her own woundedness.
As I have written before "Synchronicity is the conversion of events over which I have no control yet affirm my emotional and spiritual life and values."
Janice's email:
Hi Aunt Katie, I'm sorry I haven't written you before now. I loved the x-mas stuff and the pictures you send of my dad. But this last package was the best. You probably didn't know but I collect bells. Every one I have has a special meaning and these are wonderful. And I also collect green glass. Thank you so much for keeping me in you thoughts and prayers it really matters to me. Talk at you later Love Janet
I wanted to send Janice some special items as I have sorted and given away. This young woman has struggled with abuse and drug abuse. Her life in her younger years has "been wild." She has remarried and I think is now in a more healthy relationship and a better emotional space. I did not know that Janice collected bells. The two I sent her were a beautiful blue etched bell from my father's and mother's 50 anniversary gift collection and a clear lead crystal one from my trip to Poland in March 2001. The green glass was a small hand blown pitcher that I purchased on my first trip to Jamestown Va in the early 80's after our move to Blacksburg. I remember that I was fascinated by the glassblowing. The English had tried to get a glass industry going, it petered out. They blow the glass as an exhibit on early Colonial life.
So I didn't know of Janet's collections but I sent what touched my heart as I thought about her. I was so happy that the gifts were "touches of love" from her family. I know Joe loved Janice and all his children even as he could not express it. It is enough, I cried when I read her email this morning and wanted to share with you.
Blessings of love and friendship and family on this Easter weekend of death and new life,
This is the First Day of the Rest of My Life
Actually Thursday April 9 was or today as the first full day of retirement.
At 2 PM I turned in my last Daily, turned in my Heartland Hospice cell phone, and my ministry as Chaplain, now known as Spiritual Care Coordinator, was ended. Had a wonderful "Goodbye" lunch with the "piece de resistance" a whole salmon baked in the dishwasher by Social Worker Wendie Rose, a wonderful gift. She also makes a wonderful dill sauce for it. We ate it in minutes!
Our music therapist, Carolyn Bowes was present I requested "Auld Lang Syne" then Carolyn and Gail sang a blessing song of peace for me which made me tearful for peace is what I seek. Then I requested the Beer Barrel Polka because it was Loann's birthday and we both are 100% Polish. So the party ended with a very up beat!
The Big Boss entered and called a meeting on marketing after lunch, I thought, "I am out of here!" and I was!
I did not feel regrets or sadness. I know I have served my patients and families well. I know that I became a chaplain to prepare myself for my ministry at Walter Reed and in the eventuality that Jason would have been killed in Iraq. I believe our prayers saved Jason's life not only on the battlefield but during his recovery at Walter Reed. That time in my life is now over and I transition to my ministry for Justice (especially for women in the RCC) and Peace. I am eagerly looking forward to my "retirement" ministries.
Blessings on you and your families for Easter and as all persons celebrate this time of rebirth for our earth,
Katy
At 2 PM I turned in my last Daily, turned in my Heartland Hospice cell phone, and my ministry as Chaplain, now known as Spiritual Care Coordinator, was ended. Had a wonderful "Goodbye" lunch with the "piece de resistance" a whole salmon baked in the dishwasher by Social Worker Wendie Rose, a wonderful gift. She also makes a wonderful dill sauce for it. We ate it in minutes!
Our music therapist, Carolyn Bowes was present I requested "Auld Lang Syne" then Carolyn and Gail sang a blessing song of peace for me which made me tearful for peace is what I seek. Then I requested the Beer Barrel Polka because it was Loann's birthday and we both are 100% Polish. So the party ended with a very up beat!
The Big Boss entered and called a meeting on marketing after lunch, I thought, "I am out of here!" and I was!
I did not feel regrets or sadness. I know I have served my patients and families well. I know that I became a chaplain to prepare myself for my ministry at Walter Reed and in the eventuality that Jason would have been killed in Iraq. I believe our prayers saved Jason's life not only on the battlefield but during his recovery at Walter Reed. That time in my life is now over and I transition to my ministry for Justice (especially for women in the RCC) and Peace. I am eagerly looking forward to my "retirement" ministries.
Blessings on you and your families for Easter and as all persons celebrate this time of rebirth for our earth,
Katy
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Almost Time to Close this Blog
Dear friends,
I will make one more entry on this blog.
The divorce process will be over once the retirement funds are divided.
I will close this Blog because I will start a new one entitled "The Journey to Become a Roman Catholic Woman Priest!" Today is a Herstoric day for me. I just received news that I have been officially accepted into the program for preparation to the priesthood! Oh my gosh! I cried and laughed when Soon-to-be Bishop Bridget Mary Meehan called to tell me.
All I can say "March is going out like a lion!"
Listen to me roar and watch out cause "Here I come"
I will make one more entry on this blog.
The divorce process will be over once the retirement funds are divided.
I will close this Blog because I will start a new one entitled "The Journey to Become a Roman Catholic Woman Priest!" Today is a Herstoric day for me. I just received news that I have been officially accepted into the program for preparation to the priesthood! Oh my gosh! I cried and laughed when Soon-to-be Bishop Bridget Mary Meehan called to tell me.
All I can say "March is going out like a lion!"
Listen to me roar and watch out cause "Here I come"
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Retirement Accounts Ready to be Divided
Dow got an email from his lawyer, only about 7 months after the divorce, Loyola administration is catching up on its incompetence. It never submitted the proper request to divide the accounts is my understanding.
The divorce settlement issue is just about over-of course if we had each gotten our money in a timely fashion, maybe it would be a little larger amount than it sure is now! From a DJ of 14,000 when we separated to under half of that now. So the settlement is worth about 1/2 of what it would have been in 2006 when we separated and started the divorce process.
I collected the last items from the condo this week. Dow came out to my car with them: photos and my mother's kitchen tools that we had displayed in the kitchen. Felt funny in that I was shocked about how he looked. Dow looks haggard with snow white hair. The total time we were married Dow colored his hair to look younger and wanted me to do the same. It almost looks like he got a permanent but I sure didn't want to ask so we will never know!
My landlord called and wants me to "straighten up the apartment" as he wants to show it. It does look like a hurricane went through, I have piles and boxes in every room. I was to begin to pack today-about 4 weeks before the move, but I am on call and guess what although I never get called to visit...I got a call, patient and family want to meet to sign on to hospice. End of plan-off to Wheeling where I spent 2 hours talking about hospice and signing her up. With two hours of travel also, there went the better part of the day!
I had to come home to bake the Eucharistic bread for the liturgy as part of World Day of Prayer for Women's Ordination. We may get as much as 6 inches of snow overnight so I hope I can get to the liturgy tomorrow!
The divorce settlement issue is just about over-of course if we had each gotten our money in a timely fashion, maybe it would be a little larger amount than it sure is now! From a DJ of 14,000 when we separated to under half of that now. So the settlement is worth about 1/2 of what it would have been in 2006 when we separated and started the divorce process.
I collected the last items from the condo this week. Dow came out to my car with them: photos and my mother's kitchen tools that we had displayed in the kitchen. Felt funny in that I was shocked about how he looked. Dow looks haggard with snow white hair. The total time we were married Dow colored his hair to look younger and wanted me to do the same. It almost looks like he got a permanent but I sure didn't want to ask so we will never know!
My landlord called and wants me to "straighten up the apartment" as he wants to show it. It does look like a hurricane went through, I have piles and boxes in every room. I was to begin to pack today-about 4 weeks before the move, but I am on call and guess what although I never get called to visit...I got a call, patient and family want to meet to sign on to hospice. End of plan-off to Wheeling where I spent 2 hours talking about hospice and signing her up. With two hours of travel also, there went the better part of the day!
I had to come home to bake the Eucharistic bread for the liturgy as part of World Day of Prayer for Women's Ordination. We may get as much as 6 inches of snow overnight so I hope I can get to the liturgy tomorrow!
Saturday, March 21, 2009
A Paradox of Affirmation- Joining RCWP
I have been letting people know that I am moving to Lexington KY and while there I will participate in the RCWP preparation for ordination program.
I never received affirmation of who I am in my family of origin nor in my marriage to Dow. I think these letters are a paradox of affirmation. By joining RCWP to be ordained I have "left" the cultural and religious paradigm in which I lived. I am now outside of Catholic culture and the role of women-subservient to men. My Jungian analyst said, "You are on the path of individuation" meaning I am discovering who I am and it not is what the dominant paradigms present or require to be "normal" nor will I "fit in."
So for the very first time in my life this week I received two letters of affirmation and I want to share them with you. Each brought tears to my eyes.
First letter is from David Corcoran who is a very special friend. I met David as my CPE mentor (learning to be a chaplain) at LUMC in 2000. David has been in prison for two 6 month terms because he crossed the line at Ft. Benning GA. He is now a reservist Christian Peacemaker Team member. They go to the war zones of the Middle East to be a witness and workers for peace. David wrote:
I am glad the "Spirit has been moving you all over this land" I remember the days you told us about when you pastored in Virginia and your eyes lighted up, like this is what gave you life and meaning. Your life has always lighted up when you went out to minister to others, like when you came to visit me in prison and stayed months on end at your critically ill son's bedside. Your CPE ministry and hospice service have also taught you wisdom and compassion. So now when you go to Lexington to be mentored, know that we hold you in prayer and God will hold you in Her/His heart where you will be immersed in love. Learn from those you serve!
Best wishes, Dave.
March 13, 2009
When I lived in Virginia from 1979 to 1996 I was very active in my parish and the Roman Catholic Community. I became friends with Bishop Walter Sullivan and I have stayed in contact with him since coming to Chicago. Prior to my leaving the New River Valley, I was the Pastoral Coordinator for a newly forming parish in Christiansburg. Bishop Sullivan is one of the great Peace Bishops coming after Vatican II. He has always been very supportive of women but with the doctrines of the church changing I never thought he would voice support for me. His letter of March 17, 2009:
I was glad to hear from you and I see that you will soon be moving on to Lexington, KY. I wish you all success as you participate in the RCWP program. I remember Roy Bourgeois from many years ago when he was in the Richmond City Jail.
Blessings as you continue your spiritual journey, I am
Yours sincerely,
+Walter
Both of these good priests affirm who I have been and who I am becoming. May I truly learn from those I serve to be the "Servant of the servants of God" I know I must learn much about myself before ordination. I am undergoing evaluative tests this week to measure my psychological health. Keep my journey in your prayers.
I never received affirmation of who I am in my family of origin nor in my marriage to Dow. I think these letters are a paradox of affirmation. By joining RCWP to be ordained I have "left" the cultural and religious paradigm in which I lived. I am now outside of Catholic culture and the role of women-subservient to men. My Jungian analyst said, "You are on the path of individuation" meaning I am discovering who I am and it not is what the dominant paradigms present or require to be "normal" nor will I "fit in."
So for the very first time in my life this week I received two letters of affirmation and I want to share them with you. Each brought tears to my eyes.
First letter is from David Corcoran who is a very special friend. I met David as my CPE mentor (learning to be a chaplain) at LUMC in 2000. David has been in prison for two 6 month terms because he crossed the line at Ft. Benning GA. He is now a reservist Christian Peacemaker Team member. They go to the war zones of the Middle East to be a witness and workers for peace. David wrote:
I am glad the "Spirit has been moving you all over this land" I remember the days you told us about when you pastored in Virginia and your eyes lighted up, like this is what gave you life and meaning. Your life has always lighted up when you went out to minister to others, like when you came to visit me in prison and stayed months on end at your critically ill son's bedside. Your CPE ministry and hospice service have also taught you wisdom and compassion. So now when you go to Lexington to be mentored, know that we hold you in prayer and God will hold you in Her/His heart where you will be immersed in love. Learn from those you serve!
Best wishes, Dave.
March 13, 2009
When I lived in Virginia from 1979 to 1996 I was very active in my parish and the Roman Catholic Community. I became friends with Bishop Walter Sullivan and I have stayed in contact with him since coming to Chicago. Prior to my leaving the New River Valley, I was the Pastoral Coordinator for a newly forming parish in Christiansburg. Bishop Sullivan is one of the great Peace Bishops coming after Vatican II. He has always been very supportive of women but with the doctrines of the church changing I never thought he would voice support for me. His letter of March 17, 2009:
I was glad to hear from you and I see that you will soon be moving on to Lexington, KY. I wish you all success as you participate in the RCWP program. I remember Roy Bourgeois from many years ago when he was in the Richmond City Jail.
Blessings as you continue your spiritual journey, I am
Yours sincerely,
+Walter
Both of these good priests affirm who I have been and who I am becoming. May I truly learn from those I serve to be the "Servant of the servants of God" I know I must learn much about myself before ordination. I am undergoing evaluative tests this week to measure my psychological health. Keep my journey in your prayers.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Did Anyone See Jason on TV this week?
I met with one of my patient’s widows today. Loma said, “I saw Jason on TV. I didn’t see the whole program.” I did not see it and her words were the very first I had heard about it from anyone. I understand that Jason was doing exercise with a prosthetic. I know that when Jason left Walter Reed in November 2007 he was disinheartened with the use of one.
I hope Loma did, indeed, see Jason. Loma said Jason talked about living in Florida and his Army papers getting lost. She said, “Jason looked really good, healthy and happy.” I was so happy for Jason but sad at the same time for me that I know nothing about his and Jodi's life together.
This was the last time I will see Loma and I thought she gave me the most wonderful “Goodbye” gift I will ever receive. Jason is doing well. My heart sings with "Thanks be to Godde." Let us all pray that he will be successful in finding a position after graduation this May and he and Jodi have a very smooth move.
I was wondering if anyone out there saw Jason as Loma could not remember the name of the show except that it was on this week. Let me know if you did see it. I may be able to see it on the web or get a copy of it from the reporter. Thanks, Have a great weekend, it is supposed to be in the fifties in KY where I am going to find an apartment.
I hope Loma did, indeed, see Jason. Loma said Jason talked about living in Florida and his Army papers getting lost. She said, “Jason looked really good, healthy and happy.” I was so happy for Jason but sad at the same time for me that I know nothing about his and Jodi's life together.
This was the last time I will see Loma and I thought she gave me the most wonderful “Goodbye” gift I will ever receive. Jason is doing well. My heart sings with "Thanks be to Godde." Let us all pray that he will be successful in finding a position after graduation this May and he and Jodi have a very smooth move.
I was wondering if anyone out there saw Jason as Loma could not remember the name of the show except that it was on this week. Let me know if you did see it. I may be able to see it on the web or get a copy of it from the reporter. Thanks, Have a great weekend, it is supposed to be in the fifties in KY where I am going to find an apartment.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
A Time of Affirmation of my Priesthood
I spent two hours this morning giving a pre-test interview as part of the application for the Preparation for Ordination of RCWP (see www.romancatholicwomenpriests.org/)The young woman who asked me 2 hours of questions covering all of my emotional life, plus I did two paper and pen quick inventories stated at the end of our time together "Thank you for sharing so openly with me. I know you are on your unique spiritual path." I will see how I will score on the MMPII and one test of the therapist's choosing.
This evening I attended a small circle-four persons for a bible study of peacemaking as part of the Lenten exercises. I try to do something different during Lent, I will make as many of these as I can. I believe that Jesus was a deeply spiritual person and like each of us a Beloved son/daughter of God. In the Christian tradition a holy person is depicted as having a halo, a sign of inner light or God's presence coming forth. Our reading was the transfiguration of Christ on the mountain with his disciples "The clothes Jesus wore became dazzlingly white--whiter than any earthly bleach could make them." I said, "Each of us is transfigured, except because we are not as advanced spiritually, our light cannot be seen as readily. But some people do radiate God's light."
Now you all know the story of my stepping out of the darkness of my marriage into the light. After the meeting was over, we all were in the kitchen getting ready for a simple supper when Diane, one of the young women asked, "May I give you a hug? When you were talking about people who radiate God, I thought, "That is Katy, She radiates God's light and love." I thanked her and know it to be true. I feel I do this when I am at peace and let God's love be. I have had patients tell me the same, "You are so light." I feel I will experience it more now than before because I have said "Yes" to my priesthood. I know my priesthood will be one of healing.
This evening I attended a small circle-four persons for a bible study of peacemaking as part of the Lenten exercises. I try to do something different during Lent, I will make as many of these as I can. I believe that Jesus was a deeply spiritual person and like each of us a Beloved son/daughter of God. In the Christian tradition a holy person is depicted as having a halo, a sign of inner light or God's presence coming forth. Our reading was the transfiguration of Christ on the mountain with his disciples "The clothes Jesus wore became dazzlingly white--whiter than any earthly bleach could make them." I said, "Each of us is transfigured, except because we are not as advanced spiritually, our light cannot be seen as readily. But some people do radiate God's light."
Now you all know the story of my stepping out of the darkness of my marriage into the light. After the meeting was over, we all were in the kitchen getting ready for a simple supper when Diane, one of the young women asked, "May I give you a hug? When you were talking about people who radiate God, I thought, "That is Katy, She radiates God's light and love." I thanked her and know it to be true. I feel I do this when I am at peace and let God's love be. I have had patients tell me the same, "You are so light." I feel I will experience it more now than before because I have said "Yes" to my priesthood. I know my priesthood will be one of healing.
Off to Look for an Apartment
Having announced my decision to move to KY, now I have to go to find a place to live. So I am off to Lexington on Saturday for four days to find a place. Lisa's sister-in-law Jeannie lives there and will look for places for me. I will go on Craig's List on Thursday to get the latest rentals and go from there. Janice and Bob will also help. The only red flag is that the crime rate is higher than the national average-burglaries, etc. So as a 66 year old single woman, I feel I will have to find a place in a safer neighborhood.
I would like to have a storage area as I will bring my bike, hopefully to learn to ride for the first time in the mountains, didn't do much while I lived in Blacksburg but would like to for health and enjoyment of the natural environment.
All the mundane items to prepare for a move. I gave away another 5 boxes of books, they had sat in boxes since my move here to my "transitional housing" two years ago. My wonderful Irish landlord was very disappointed that I will not stay but he said, "You will follow your heart, I think you will choose Kentucky" and so I have.
To balance the moving madness, I have begun work on my application as "soon-to-be" bishop Bridget Mary wanted my application in THIS week. Whoa, I told her I will try for April 1 and do need it in as the criteria for admission to the ordination preparation program are changing on that date. I think the Americans are getting to academic and attempting to "control" the Spirit but I also know academic preparation is good. However anyone schooled in modern day Roman Catholic theology is trained in "patriarchal, hierarchical, clerical" rationalizing theology. Definitely not the best preparation to be a Roman Catholic Woman Priest.
I think the best preparation for the priesthood is continual involvement in one's faith journey and the support of a faith community. Life is the lesson if I pay attention! To grow in compassion and solidarity with all that exists for all is of Godde.
I would like to have a storage area as I will bring my bike, hopefully to learn to ride for the first time in the mountains, didn't do much while I lived in Blacksburg but would like to for health and enjoyment of the natural environment.
All the mundane items to prepare for a move. I gave away another 5 boxes of books, they had sat in boxes since my move here to my "transitional housing" two years ago. My wonderful Irish landlord was very disappointed that I will not stay but he said, "You will follow your heart, I think you will choose Kentucky" and so I have.
To balance the moving madness, I have begun work on my application as "soon-to-be" bishop Bridget Mary wanted my application in THIS week. Whoa, I told her I will try for April 1 and do need it in as the criteria for admission to the ordination preparation program are changing on that date. I think the Americans are getting to academic and attempting to "control" the Spirit but I also know academic preparation is good. However anyone schooled in modern day Roman Catholic theology is trained in "patriarchal, hierarchical, clerical" rationalizing theology. Definitely not the best preparation to be a Roman Catholic Woman Priest.
I think the best preparation for the priesthood is continual involvement in one's faith journey and the support of a faith community. Life is the lesson if I pay attention! To grow in compassion and solidarity with all that exists for all is of Godde.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Synchronicity
I wrote an email this morning telling family that I was moving to KY.
At the same time Dow was calling Lisa to tell her this:
From: Lisa Ryan
Mom,
I have already talked to dad about you moving to KY because of the vacation plans this summer. And - just so you know - he is bringing his girlfriend on the cruise for Jason's wedding. I have not met her but I guess I will this summer.
Synchronicity is a Jungian term that describes two events happening at the same time over which you have no control. If you remember one of my reasons for leaving Chicago is the painful memories of my abusive marriage and the pain of Jason's wounding and our estrangement. So for me this announcement by Dow is affirmation that I have made the right decision to "move on with my life" as Dow moves on to another relationship.
I had told my sister Connie after we separated that "Dow will soon find another girlfriend/wife." He was adamant about MY not living with a man, but no problem for him! Dow's emotional needs to be the "child taken care of by mom" continue. Dow was too unconscious to grow or look deeply at our relationship during our months of marriage counseling. I would bet good money Dow has not learned anything about himself during these years apart. Oh, I am sure Dow learned to get a pre-nuptial agreement.
I hope that they have a good relationship, however based on my 30 plus years relationship with Dow, I know it will not be a healthy one; only one that "fits both of who they are emotionally and spiritually."
Because I have no relationship with Jason and Jodi and Dow will be bringing his girlfriend/wife, the wedding sure will be a doubly sticky experience for me. I had an aunt whose ex-spouse and his girlfriend were always invited to our family gatherings. She always told me how painful this was. I certainly will be the "odd-guest" out at the wedding. The situation of extended/blended families can really be a doozy. I plan to go and have a good time in the sun.
At the same time Dow was calling Lisa to tell her this:
From: Lisa Ryan
Mom,
I have already talked to dad about you moving to KY because of the vacation plans this summer. And - just so you know - he is bringing his girlfriend on the cruise for Jason's wedding. I have not met her but I guess I will this summer.
Synchronicity is a Jungian term that describes two events happening at the same time over which you have no control. If you remember one of my reasons for leaving Chicago is the painful memories of my abusive marriage and the pain of Jason's wounding and our estrangement. So for me this announcement by Dow is affirmation that I have made the right decision to "move on with my life" as Dow moves on to another relationship.
I had told my sister Connie after we separated that "Dow will soon find another girlfriend/wife." He was adamant about MY not living with a man, but no problem for him! Dow's emotional needs to be the "child taken care of by mom" continue. Dow was too unconscious to grow or look deeply at our relationship during our months of marriage counseling. I would bet good money Dow has not learned anything about himself during these years apart. Oh, I am sure Dow learned to get a pre-nuptial agreement.
I hope that they have a good relationship, however based on my 30 plus years relationship with Dow, I know it will not be a healthy one; only one that "fits both of who they are emotionally and spiritually."
Because I have no relationship with Jason and Jodi and Dow will be bringing his girlfriend/wife, the wedding sure will be a doubly sticky experience for me. I had an aunt whose ex-spouse and his girlfriend were always invited to our family gatherings. She always told me how painful this was. I certainly will be the "odd-guest" out at the wedding. The situation of extended/blended families can really be a doozy. I plan to go and have a good time in the sun.
Discernment Process to Move to KY May 1, 2009
I thought that you might be interested in my discernment process which ended yesterday. I knew two years ago when I leased my apartment that it was "transitional housing." I knew my life would change once the divorce was final and that included a possible move from Chicago. I came to Chicago for Dow's promotion and it has been both a time of great pain and spiritual/emotional growth.
I have a friend Janice who is a Roman Catholic priest living with her husband in Lexington. She supported me through my divorce process and read the gospel at her ordination last August (see blog for 8/08). I knew that I would be entering the RCWP "seminary" and have started the application process this week. my lease was up 4/1/09. I asked my landlord for a month extension and he graciously permitted it to May 1. Looking at my calendar I couldn't get my move together before then.
Over the past year I have shared my discernment with two good therapists, my spiritual director and family as I pondered the pros and cons of this decision.
REASONS TO MOVE TO KY
1. Janice is the mentor I would like to have as I study to be a RCWP. Janice is a model of priesthood arising from the charism of Peace and Justice Ministry. This I believe is the true model of priesthood. Calling us to be the Compassionate Christ in the world. I want to live “the change I want to see” in the RCC.
2. Visualization about KY- a scene of spring-dogwood and red buds blooming. The second half of the image was “Chicago” a city with windows darkened but with golden light coming from underneath/behind. Moving to KY is a new beginning for myself for the first time on my own as an adult-no children, no husband since I was 21.
3. Cost of living is 14% less. 2 bedroom apartment about $600 plus utilities.
4. I would like to “retire” from focus on chaplain ministry to doing things that bring me pleasure as I have never done this before. I have always “lived for others” not pursuing my own interests but “sacrificing” my legitimate needs and wants.
5. The winter weather is milder/shorter.
6. Access to the natural environment is closer.
7. Has Sierra Club and Audubon Club
8. Smaller city area-about 250,000 people. ½ hour to travel across the city area. Everything in easy access.
9. Active Peace and Justice community.
10. Could worship with the Quaker community on Sundays until RC faith community is established.
11. Has a state university for classes, events, etc. Also has a medical center connected with university and access to good health system
12. Has a senior center
13. Art classes offered- pursue as a serious hobby.
14. A small city is a good place to live during a deep recession/depression.
15. Has a Curves free to AARP members-for exercise
REASONS TO STAY IN CHICAGO; not in any order
1. Train to see family in Detroit, for Connie to visit Chicago.
2. I do not have to drive (own a car) can take train, bus or taxi.
3. Preside in faith community as I have for 12 years.
4. Can enter RCWP living in Chicago.
5. Can continue to be part-time hospice chaplain with LHH, this may come to an end unless organizations increases census.
6. Many active Peace and Justice groups including Pax Christi, 8th Day Center for Justice
7. Present landlord has not changed rent for 2009; given permission to find a roommate to share ½ cost.
8. Know Chicago area/services/well.
9. Know people here but not any close friends. Either P and J connections or Women’s ordination connections.
REASONS TO LEAVE CHICAGO
Memories of Chicago are tied to an abusive marriage and bitter divorce. Memories of Chicago are tied to Jason, military, and his wounding. These memories are triggers for sorrow. I feel I need physical distance from the events of the past. In Lexington there are no emotional triggers connected to Dow or Jason. I will start with a clean slate of new experiences.
My spiritual and emotional growth work in Chicago has been tremendous. To be in the mountains of KY will be a healing environment for me; a time to pause and let myself be. I have never permitted myself to enjoy the natural environment nor to paint; I would like to devote time to these endeavors and Lexington will be a much slower paced city.
Because of the stock market crash, my divorce settlement is now less than 50% of what it would have been a year ago and decreasing each week. Finances are a part of the decision to move.
As my Jungian analyst told me this week, “Your psyche does not care where you live, but only what you are becoming.”
MARCH 6, 2009
DISCERNMENT PROCESS with Srs. Mary Kay and Patricia
(They are members of my Eucharistic community and friends for 13 years.Both are social workers with many years of experience)
THE QUESTION: SHOULD I MOVE TO KY?
Not in any order
CONS:
Not a transportation hub like Chicago
Leaving my faith community where I have presided for 12 years
Blatant racism in Lexington
Leaving support system/friends
Uprooting from city/life/work of 13 years
No known support except one friend
No employment focus to structure time
Poor public transportation-must drive
Religious culture is not RC, but Protestant
Pros:
Cost of living lower- 14-20% than Chicago
Janice as mentor for priesthood- focus on Justice (especially for women) & Peace
Good time in my life for a change-time of retirement now on SS and Medicare
Can focus on the environment-time/groups/clubs
Leave Chicago and emotional trauma
Life is simpler (town of 250,000 versus 8 million), back to my roots of rural life
Time to write/reflect/take college classes
Focus energy on RCWP “seminary”
Going out on my own for the very 1st time in my life
New beginning in a new environment
I have a friend Janice who is a Roman Catholic priest living with her husband in Lexington. She supported me through my divorce process and read the gospel at her ordination last August (see blog for 8/08). I knew that I would be entering the RCWP "seminary" and have started the application process this week. my lease was up 4/1/09. I asked my landlord for a month extension and he graciously permitted it to May 1. Looking at my calendar I couldn't get my move together before then.
Over the past year I have shared my discernment with two good therapists, my spiritual director and family as I pondered the pros and cons of this decision.
REASONS TO MOVE TO KY
1. Janice is the mentor I would like to have as I study to be a RCWP. Janice is a model of priesthood arising from the charism of Peace and Justice Ministry. This I believe is the true model of priesthood. Calling us to be the Compassionate Christ in the world. I want to live “the change I want to see” in the RCC.
2. Visualization about KY- a scene of spring-dogwood and red buds blooming. The second half of the image was “Chicago” a city with windows darkened but with golden light coming from underneath/behind. Moving to KY is a new beginning for myself for the first time on my own as an adult-no children, no husband since I was 21.
3. Cost of living is 14% less. 2 bedroom apartment about $600 plus utilities.
4. I would like to “retire” from focus on chaplain ministry to doing things that bring me pleasure as I have never done this before. I have always “lived for others” not pursuing my own interests but “sacrificing” my legitimate needs and wants.
5. The winter weather is milder/shorter.
6. Access to the natural environment is closer.
7. Has Sierra Club and Audubon Club
8. Smaller city area-about 250,000 people. ½ hour to travel across the city area. Everything in easy access.
9. Active Peace and Justice community.
10. Could worship with the Quaker community on Sundays until RC faith community is established.
11. Has a state university for classes, events, etc. Also has a medical center connected with university and access to good health system
12. Has a senior center
13. Art classes offered- pursue as a serious hobby.
14. A small city is a good place to live during a deep recession/depression.
15. Has a Curves free to AARP members-for exercise
REASONS TO STAY IN CHICAGO; not in any order
1. Train to see family in Detroit, for Connie to visit Chicago.
2. I do not have to drive (own a car) can take train, bus or taxi.
3. Preside in faith community as I have for 12 years.
4. Can enter RCWP living in Chicago.
5. Can continue to be part-time hospice chaplain with LHH, this may come to an end unless organizations increases census.
6. Many active Peace and Justice groups including Pax Christi, 8th Day Center for Justice
7. Present landlord has not changed rent for 2009; given permission to find a roommate to share ½ cost.
8. Know Chicago area/services/well.
9. Know people here but not any close friends. Either P and J connections or Women’s ordination connections.
REASONS TO LEAVE CHICAGO
Memories of Chicago are tied to an abusive marriage and bitter divorce. Memories of Chicago are tied to Jason, military, and his wounding. These memories are triggers for sorrow. I feel I need physical distance from the events of the past. In Lexington there are no emotional triggers connected to Dow or Jason. I will start with a clean slate of new experiences.
My spiritual and emotional growth work in Chicago has been tremendous. To be in the mountains of KY will be a healing environment for me; a time to pause and let myself be. I have never permitted myself to enjoy the natural environment nor to paint; I would like to devote time to these endeavors and Lexington will be a much slower paced city.
Because of the stock market crash, my divorce settlement is now less than 50% of what it would have been a year ago and decreasing each week. Finances are a part of the decision to move.
As my Jungian analyst told me this week, “Your psyche does not care where you live, but only what you are becoming.”
MARCH 6, 2009
DISCERNMENT PROCESS with Srs. Mary Kay and Patricia
(They are members of my Eucharistic community and friends for 13 years.Both are social workers with many years of experience)
THE QUESTION: SHOULD I MOVE TO KY?
Not in any order
CONS:
Not a transportation hub like Chicago
Leaving my faith community where I have presided for 12 years
Blatant racism in Lexington
Leaving support system/friends
Uprooting from city/life/work of 13 years
No known support except one friend
No employment focus to structure time
Poor public transportation-must drive
Religious culture is not RC, but Protestant
Pros:
Cost of living lower- 14-20% than Chicago
Janice as mentor for priesthood- focus on Justice (especially for women) & Peace
Good time in my life for a change-time of retirement now on SS and Medicare
Can focus on the environment-time/groups/clubs
Leave Chicago and emotional trauma
Life is simpler (town of 250,000 versus 8 million), back to my roots of rural life
Time to write/reflect/take college classes
Focus energy on RCWP “seminary”
Going out on my own for the very 1st time in my life
New beginning in a new environment
Sunday, March 1, 2009
What a Saturday! I Should Have Stayed in Bed!
I need to share my story of the Saturday from Hell! Just in time for the beginning of Lent.
I woke up and had a leisurely breakfast. That was beginning of the most non-leisurely day in a long-time.
I had to finish preparing for my liturgy on Sunday-the First Sunday in Lent. No problem. I took the liturgy to the local copy place the only one within miles next to Loyola's campus. This was the second time they happened. "Sorry the copy machines are down. They will be up by Monday." Can't do it, need tomorrow. "Leave with me and I will have for you." Two weeks ago, the machines were down and she had one of the locals deliver to me at home after hours.
Next stop I headed to the dentist to find O’Meara was closed! I think he decided to take Spring break and didn’t bother to notify this patient that my appointment was being dropped. Grr.
So that meant that I could move the next meeting to plan a liturgy as my list of Saturday chores was a long one. Barbara was amicable and I cooked her breakfast as she had just gotten off from working all night as a hospital chaplain. She ate breakfast and we argued over the liturgy for 3/29/09-world day of prayer for Women's Ordination. Barbara is old school in that she doesn't mind some forms of sexist language. But the Harold community will tolerate none of it. I told her, "Barbara you may be corrected but ultimately be who you are." I figure they can give Barbara the feedback, I have warned her, my duty is done.
Then we discussed the "state of the Roman Catholic Women Priest movement" which is having its challenges including the naming of bishops for the various active regions. Because these are women of personal power (they would never take on the institutional RCC if they weren't) there is dissension because of how some of the priests are using their power. Sigh, when it comes to power within an institution/structure there is no difference between men and women and their abuse of it.
Then I had to take the car in for service. “No problem done in an hour” well you can guess what happened. No call, no call. I called them, “Almost done.” Toyota called back, “We will send a car for you as we close at 6PM.” No car, no car. Shoot! I need the car for tomorrow. 20 minutes to 6 PM the young driver shows up. I have bread in the oven “Can I get home before it burns?” Dash, dash. $130 to get the 4 electronic keys to the Prius “tuned and new batteries.” Don’t ask why I have 4 (I don’t know-we must have lost, bought replacements then found the originals as I know we started off with just two) and none of them was working well.
Barbara had asked me to come to her liturgy at 6PM. I had the right address about two blocks from my apartment but got lost and arrived in the middle of the dialogue homily. Apologies accepted. I finally “settled down” and really enjoyed an excellent pot luck dinner after liturgy and stayed a lot longer than I thought I would. I did find my way home after dark with no problem.
So I thought I didn't start the day with prayer but I ended this day of chaos with prayer and it settled me in just fine.
Slept till 5:30 AM this morning, got up and wrote my birthday cards for the month. My Grandson Jonathan's is on the 27th; he turns 11. My sister Judy's is the 29th, she was actually born on Holy Thursday. Got my liturgy items and headed out into the snow and the cold. Good liturgy this morning about 12 people present. We explored the meaning of Lent and how God is asking us to grow spiritually no matter where we are on the journey.
I woke up and had a leisurely breakfast. That was beginning of the most non-leisurely day in a long-time.
I had to finish preparing for my liturgy on Sunday-the First Sunday in Lent. No problem. I took the liturgy to the local copy place the only one within miles next to Loyola's campus. This was the second time they happened. "Sorry the copy machines are down. They will be up by Monday." Can't do it, need tomorrow. "Leave with me and I will have for you." Two weeks ago, the machines were down and she had one of the locals deliver to me at home after hours.
Next stop I headed to the dentist to find O’Meara was closed! I think he decided to take Spring break and didn’t bother to notify this patient that my appointment was being dropped. Grr.
So that meant that I could move the next meeting to plan a liturgy as my list of Saturday chores was a long one. Barbara was amicable and I cooked her breakfast as she had just gotten off from working all night as a hospital chaplain. She ate breakfast and we argued over the liturgy for 3/29/09-world day of prayer for Women's Ordination. Barbara is old school in that she doesn't mind some forms of sexist language. But the Harold community will tolerate none of it. I told her, "Barbara you may be corrected but ultimately be who you are." I figure they can give Barbara the feedback, I have warned her, my duty is done.
Then we discussed the "state of the Roman Catholic Women Priest movement" which is having its challenges including the naming of bishops for the various active regions. Because these are women of personal power (they would never take on the institutional RCC if they weren't) there is dissension because of how some of the priests are using their power. Sigh, when it comes to power within an institution/structure there is no difference between men and women and their abuse of it.
Then I had to take the car in for service. “No problem done in an hour” well you can guess what happened. No call, no call. I called them, “Almost done.” Toyota called back, “We will send a car for you as we close at 6PM.” No car, no car. Shoot! I need the car for tomorrow. 20 minutes to 6 PM the young driver shows up. I have bread in the oven “Can I get home before it burns?” Dash, dash. $130 to get the 4 electronic keys to the Prius “tuned and new batteries.” Don’t ask why I have 4 (I don’t know-we must have lost, bought replacements then found the originals as I know we started off with just two) and none of them was working well.
Barbara had asked me to come to her liturgy at 6PM. I had the right address about two blocks from my apartment but got lost and arrived in the middle of the dialogue homily. Apologies accepted. I finally “settled down” and really enjoyed an excellent pot luck dinner after liturgy and stayed a lot longer than I thought I would. I did find my way home after dark with no problem.
So I thought I didn't start the day with prayer but I ended this day of chaos with prayer and it settled me in just fine.
Slept till 5:30 AM this morning, got up and wrote my birthday cards for the month. My Grandson Jonathan's is on the 27th; he turns 11. My sister Judy's is the 29th, she was actually born on Holy Thursday. Got my liturgy items and headed out into the snow and the cold. Good liturgy this morning about 12 people present. We explored the meaning of Lent and how God is asking us to grow spiritually no matter where we are on the journey.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
A Personal Banker: a Very Nice Twenty-Something
I had to open a IRA today for the 2008 tax year and with the markets in turmoil it was recommended that I put it into a CD for 18 months at 2.25% interest. I went to my local bank and spoke with a very nice young man in his 20’s. I didn’t know I had a choice in IRA's-traditional or Roth so we had to call Mike Cooke CPA who was not available.
Off I went to do chores and as I was at the auto shop to get a tune-up, oil change and wheel alignment-pothole heaven-Chicago winter, Mike called and said, “Traditional (not Roth) IRA; 18 months, not 2 years.” Mike hopes I can roll it over into something with more interest paid. So back to Devin and I to discuss the IRA.
I had to walk back to the bank with the car in the shop so it was a good workout on a sunny 45 degree day. We talked of the IRA-I could put in $1000 extra because I am over 65-Devin had to get that clarified. Kept getting a computer error message “over allowed contribution.” Then we talked about his auto accident yesterday-got hit by a car that had run a red light and the up side to taking Vicadin for pain-pain must be limited once you are in the healing process, it is counterproductive.
I asked Devin for a credit check as I wanted to see what a potential landlord would find: No "Catherine Zatsick" for one thing, I am still Catherine Scott, not sure how long it takes for a divorce to catch up with a credit data base, obviously more than 6 months. When I got home, a message from Devin asking that I come back “You left you hat here.” And one from the car dealtership, the car was ready and I was $280 poorer.
The IRA creation process probably took an hour-truly a “personal banker” experience. My blessing for the day. He said that the branch has been busy as customers are moving from the new Chase bank-they bought out the WaMu branch. And no one likes the way Chase treats them as customers. I thought "Hmm when you are one of the nations five remaining bigees" I guess that is how you can be.
Off I went to do chores and as I was at the auto shop to get a tune-up, oil change and wheel alignment-pothole heaven-Chicago winter, Mike called and said, “Traditional (not Roth) IRA; 18 months, not 2 years.” Mike hopes I can roll it over into something with more interest paid. So back to Devin and I to discuss the IRA.
I had to walk back to the bank with the car in the shop so it was a good workout on a sunny 45 degree day. We talked of the IRA-I could put in $1000 extra because I am over 65-Devin had to get that clarified. Kept getting a computer error message “over allowed contribution.” Then we talked about his auto accident yesterday-got hit by a car that had run a red light and the up side to taking Vicadin for pain-pain must be limited once you are in the healing process, it is counterproductive.
I asked Devin for a credit check as I wanted to see what a potential landlord would find: No "Catherine Zatsick" for one thing, I am still Catherine Scott, not sure how long it takes for a divorce to catch up with a credit data base, obviously more than 6 months. When I got home, a message from Devin asking that I come back “You left you hat here.” And one from the car dealtership, the car was ready and I was $280 poorer.
The IRA creation process probably took an hour-truly a “personal banker” experience. My blessing for the day. He said that the branch has been busy as customers are moving from the new Chase bank-they bought out the WaMu branch. And no one likes the way Chase treats them as customers. I thought "Hmm when you are one of the nations five remaining bigees" I guess that is how you can be.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Sorry Folks, Been too Busy to Write: Grandparent's Weekend Tampa
The last weekend in January is Grandparents Weekend so having 3 grandchildren at Nativity Catholic Elementary school I flew on down to Tampa to get out of the cold Midwest!
I arrived Saturday the 24th while it was freezing in the Midwest I stepped out into sun and 76 degrees for the next 4 days. What a difference a 1000 miles South makes!
Lisa, Ellie and I went out to Panera bread for dinner. After I had a discussion with Charlie about Obama's chances to change the policies of this country amidst what I call a depression. I think we agreed to disagree.
Sunday morning we got up to attend Mass after I slept in to 7:30, usually I am up at 6AM. Off we went after breakfast to attend the Children's liturgy. This mass is held in the side chapel that has a beautiful stained glass window entitled "Our Lady of Peace" she is in blue with yellow glass behind her. Since Jason's injury I cry in the chapel and I did this morning. This was to be a very special liturgy as Ellie was to read the introduction to the mass for the VERY first time. She and I had practiced the night before and then Dad and Ellie practiced some more. I told her "Ellie, speak to the person in the last row." Dad wasn't too supportive of that coaching idea but she did most marvelously well!
JC age 12 read the intercessions. He did a very good job, but his voice got a little low. I cried when I heard both of them read, my grandchildren participating in liturgy. I didn't until I was in mid-20's as the changes from Vatican II were being introduced. I was a lector. As much as I work to renew/reform the RCC, I still love the best it teaches through the ages-peace and justice for all including the earth itself.
Then after mass the boys went off with friends, mom and dad went to a presentation for couples and Ellie and I spent the afternoon together. First food-Wendy's, then on to the movies-Hotel for Dogs which told the oft told tale: boy has dog, boy looses dog, boy finds lots of dogs, everyone lives happily every after in a....Hotel for Dogs. Fun story, I enjoyed it and so did Ellie.
Then it was time to go home to help Ellie with math homework, I must say the kids don't want to do "1 extra bit of homework." Helped JC with his Spanish homework which reminded me that I really would like to learn Spanish if given the opportunity to do so.
Now it gets exciting/awful. The dog broke out of the electric fence and headed for a cat which it treed. Ellie and I couldn't get to her so we called for JC and a friend, they were now home. They caught the dog "so I thought" and Ellie and I left on our way to sell Girl Scout cookies. We sold until it got dark, went home to hear the dog barking "up a tree." Went in the house the same time Charlie and Lisa arrived home from the dinner date out. "Where is the dog?" JC said he had her. Truth be told he couldn't get the leash on so he left her "barking up the tree" at the cat. The neighbors who had come home were furious! The dog has done this before. Charlie was angry the dog got out.
I felt Ellie and I were innocent of the whole thing. I don't know what I could have done differently except call the dog catcher which I am sure Lisa would not have approved of. The rule is: The dog must be in the house if anyone leaves the yard, I guess she will break through the fence to follow the kids. I did not know this but I do now.
After I opened up my birthday gifts a warm blanket wrap from Lisa and family and an etched Polish vase from Jason and Jodi. It took me aback as I hadn't heard anything on my birthday from them. It was unexpected and very nice but I felt as if the present were from strangers. I wonder if they feel the same way receiving something from me.
Monday the big day:
I drove the kids to school and it was "off to the classes" I visited each "home room" starting with Ellie's first as I missed her room last year cause I ran out of time. Then to JC's and Jonathan's, meeting the teachers along the way. After I took them out to lunch then back school for the afternoon. Lisa and I did some chores, picked the kids up and headed for dinner at the beach. We went to a different one S of Tampa, Lisa had to call for directions. We got there about 1/2 before sunset. The kids and Lisa made a heart in the sand, they were ready to swim but it was too cold.
We headed to Applebees for platters of chicken and fries for dinner. No fruit or veggies for the kids.
When we got home Charlie and I had a discussion about Freedom of Choice Act-and actions that the RCC might take including civil resistance or shutting down hospitals because they must provide abortion services. The priest had mentioned it in his homily Sunday morning.
I arrived Saturday the 24th while it was freezing in the Midwest I stepped out into sun and 76 degrees for the next 4 days. What a difference a 1000 miles South makes!
Lisa, Ellie and I went out to Panera bread for dinner. After I had a discussion with Charlie about Obama's chances to change the policies of this country amidst what I call a depression. I think we agreed to disagree.
Sunday morning we got up to attend Mass after I slept in to 7:30, usually I am up at 6AM. Off we went after breakfast to attend the Children's liturgy. This mass is held in the side chapel that has a beautiful stained glass window entitled "Our Lady of Peace" she is in blue with yellow glass behind her. Since Jason's injury I cry in the chapel and I did this morning. This was to be a very special liturgy as Ellie was to read the introduction to the mass for the VERY first time. She and I had practiced the night before and then Dad and Ellie practiced some more. I told her "Ellie, speak to the person in the last row." Dad wasn't too supportive of that coaching idea but she did most marvelously well!
JC age 12 read the intercessions. He did a very good job, but his voice got a little low. I cried when I heard both of them read, my grandchildren participating in liturgy. I didn't until I was in mid-20's as the changes from Vatican II were being introduced. I was a lector. As much as I work to renew/reform the RCC, I still love the best it teaches through the ages-peace and justice for all including the earth itself.
Then after mass the boys went off with friends, mom and dad went to a presentation for couples and Ellie and I spent the afternoon together. First food-Wendy's, then on to the movies-Hotel for Dogs which told the oft told tale: boy has dog, boy looses dog, boy finds lots of dogs, everyone lives happily every after in a....Hotel for Dogs. Fun story, I enjoyed it and so did Ellie.
Then it was time to go home to help Ellie with math homework, I must say the kids don't want to do "1 extra bit of homework." Helped JC with his Spanish homework which reminded me that I really would like to learn Spanish if given the opportunity to do so.
Now it gets exciting/awful. The dog broke out of the electric fence and headed for a cat which it treed. Ellie and I couldn't get to her so we called for JC and a friend, they were now home. They caught the dog "so I thought" and Ellie and I left on our way to sell Girl Scout cookies. We sold until it got dark, went home to hear the dog barking "up a tree." Went in the house the same time Charlie and Lisa arrived home from the dinner date out. "Where is the dog?" JC said he had her. Truth be told he couldn't get the leash on so he left her "barking up the tree" at the cat. The neighbors who had come home were furious! The dog has done this before. Charlie was angry the dog got out.
I felt Ellie and I were innocent of the whole thing. I don't know what I could have done differently except call the dog catcher which I am sure Lisa would not have approved of. The rule is: The dog must be in the house if anyone leaves the yard, I guess she will break through the fence to follow the kids. I did not know this but I do now.
After I opened up my birthday gifts a warm blanket wrap from Lisa and family and an etched Polish vase from Jason and Jodi. It took me aback as I hadn't heard anything on my birthday from them. It was unexpected and very nice but I felt as if the present were from strangers. I wonder if they feel the same way receiving something from me.
Monday the big day:
I drove the kids to school and it was "off to the classes" I visited each "home room" starting with Ellie's first as I missed her room last year cause I ran out of time. Then to JC's and Jonathan's, meeting the teachers along the way. After I took them out to lunch then back school for the afternoon. Lisa and I did some chores, picked the kids up and headed for dinner at the beach. We went to a different one S of Tampa, Lisa had to call for directions. We got there about 1/2 before sunset. The kids and Lisa made a heart in the sand, they were ready to swim but it was too cold.
We headed to Applebees for platters of chicken and fries for dinner. No fruit or veggies for the kids.
When we got home Charlie and I had a discussion about Freedom of Choice Act-and actions that the RCC might take including civil resistance or shutting down hospitals because they must provide abortion services. The priest had mentioned it in his homily Sunday morning.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
War's Real Impact: Our Voices; Testimony from veterans, workers, military families, and students January 31, 2009 Chicago IL
I was honored to be asked to speak for 3 minutes at the witness held today.
My testimony:
My name is Katy Zatsick, mother of 2 and grandmother of 3.
Thank you for coming to listen to our life experiences and thank you to the organizers who have worked long and hard to gather us to give witness to the Real Impact of War.
I offer my support to all veterans and their families and to the members of IVAW.
My son Jason joined the US Army after September 11 and was ordered to Iraq Jan 2005. In October of 2005 Jason was injured by an IED and spent the next year at Walter Reed Army Medical Center recovering from his injuries including the loss of his right eye and arm. I spent 8 months living at WR assisting in Jason’s therapy and recovery. Jason is now completing a MBA at U of FL and will graduate in May.
Because of my activism for ending war, Jason and I have not spoken nor seen each other since December 2006. Jason’s father and I separated while I lived at WR and our divorce was finalized September 2008.
I have been a hospice chaplain for 7 years in the Chicago area. Because of the national debt caused partially by this war, cuts are being proposed and being made in health care services across the country at all levels of care.
The Vice-Pres of the national Association for Home Care and Hospice said, “Under proposals (cutting reimbursements) 75%-80% of home health agencies would be doomed. They would not be able to meet payroll. They would not be able to operate.” (Level of payment frozen in 2009 to 2013.)
Nineteen states have enacted or proposed cuts in Medicaid. Here in IL we know we have at least $3-5 billion budget shortfall. And what cuts will come to health care we do not know but know they will come.
This week the Chicago Tribune reported about four Mental Health clinics being shuttered. Dr. Mason, Chicago’s Public Health minister cited a $1.2 million shortfall in state funding. He went on to say “professional and support staffing levels had fallen to such low levels that patients could no longer be served effectively” This is only the tip of the iceberg in cuts to health care for all of us. We know of the increasing number of Americans without health insurance and those loosing benefits because of the ever increasing number of unemployed.
My own organization continues to downsize reacting to changes already instituted and planning for future funding cuts in both Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement for hospices. My own position and all others who provide health care are threatened by the financial burden caused by war and the size of the USA military budget that is 46% of the world’s total. This total far out strips those of UK, France, Japan and China with 4-5% each for their military budgets.
Thank you for your attention.
Let us work to end war and to fund human services and needs.
Let us work to create a world of peace for our children and grandchildren and a healthy planet.
I listened as veterans, workers, labor union members spoke of the impact of war on their personal and professional lives. The panel was asked about Afghanistan "the good war" where Obama plans "a surge." Different folks responded. I also with these words:
"I will speak as a hospice chaplain who accompanies families as they say "Goodbye" to a loved one. Each life is precious, each life is unique. There is no God of this side or that side in war. God is the God of life not of death and destruction. God is the God of healing and walks with those suffering. We have not addressed the effects of depleted uranium that is destroying the water, food and land. I can say unequivocally "End War Forever" Our of Iraq, Out of Afghanistan."
I got a round of applause especially from the IVAW members.
One of the speakers was another mother from MFSO. She spoke of taking care of our soldiers when they come home. Please go to www.save-a-vet.org. "Save-a-vet NFP is an organization dedicated to the caring and well-being of all military and law enforcement working animals." Dexter, considered "equipment" by DOD, was present during the presentation. Dexter was a "MWD-military working dog, saved over 200 lives that fateful day by finding a truck filled with explosives" Dexter is the first dog that Randi's son has adopted as part of the program. Show your support of this wonderful new program. Thank you for your caring.
I met an IVAW member who needs support. He returned from Iraq with severe PTSD. His Ohio family labeled him "crazy" and threw him out of their family circle. He came up to me after the program and asked, "Would you like to be my mom? Maybe we could be family?" I replied, "We can be friends" I have his card with his email and will contact him. Another veteran, now living on the edge, the Real Cost of this and all wars.
Eugene Cherry made a movie with Matt Damon about Iraq. He is struggling to receive benefits for education from the VA. An ongoing struggle for so many. Eugene went AWOL and became a very public figure, I honestly don't think he will ever receive benefits of any kind from the military-payback for his work to bring out in the open the treatment of our veterans by this government who sends them into war-disposable equipment.
A truly fulfilling day. I felt energized when I left and hope to be able to speak out again many times in my life. I asked Mike-head of the AFSC in Chicago "Did I do well?" I am not good at extemporaneous speaking. Mike said, "Katy you did wonderfully well." I was relieved and happy and thought "I can die anytime and stand before my Maker unafraid." I have made mistakes but now I am speaking and living for peace and justice. It is enough!
My testimony:
My name is Katy Zatsick, mother of 2 and grandmother of 3.
Thank you for coming to listen to our life experiences and thank you to the organizers who have worked long and hard to gather us to give witness to the Real Impact of War.
I offer my support to all veterans and their families and to the members of IVAW.
My son Jason joined the US Army after September 11 and was ordered to Iraq Jan 2005. In October of 2005 Jason was injured by an IED and spent the next year at Walter Reed Army Medical Center recovering from his injuries including the loss of his right eye and arm. I spent 8 months living at WR assisting in Jason’s therapy and recovery. Jason is now completing a MBA at U of FL and will graduate in May.
Because of my activism for ending war, Jason and I have not spoken nor seen each other since December 2006. Jason’s father and I separated while I lived at WR and our divorce was finalized September 2008.
I have been a hospice chaplain for 7 years in the Chicago area. Because of the national debt caused partially by this war, cuts are being proposed and being made in health care services across the country at all levels of care.
The Vice-Pres of the national Association for Home Care and Hospice said, “Under proposals (cutting reimbursements) 75%-80% of home health agencies would be doomed. They would not be able to meet payroll. They would not be able to operate.” (Level of payment frozen in 2009 to 2013.)
Nineteen states have enacted or proposed cuts in Medicaid. Here in IL we know we have at least $3-5 billion budget shortfall. And what cuts will come to health care we do not know but know they will come.
This week the Chicago Tribune reported about four Mental Health clinics being shuttered. Dr. Mason, Chicago’s Public Health minister cited a $1.2 million shortfall in state funding. He went on to say “professional and support staffing levels had fallen to such low levels that patients could no longer be served effectively” This is only the tip of the iceberg in cuts to health care for all of us. We know of the increasing number of Americans without health insurance and those loosing benefits because of the ever increasing number of unemployed.
My own organization continues to downsize reacting to changes already instituted and planning for future funding cuts in both Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement for hospices. My own position and all others who provide health care are threatened by the financial burden caused by war and the size of the USA military budget that is 46% of the world’s total. This total far out strips those of UK, France, Japan and China with 4-5% each for their military budgets.
Thank you for your attention.
Let us work to end war and to fund human services and needs.
Let us work to create a world of peace for our children and grandchildren and a healthy planet.
I listened as veterans, workers, labor union members spoke of the impact of war on their personal and professional lives. The panel was asked about Afghanistan "the good war" where Obama plans "a surge." Different folks responded. I also with these words:
"I will speak as a hospice chaplain who accompanies families as they say "Goodbye" to a loved one. Each life is precious, each life is unique. There is no God of this side or that side in war. God is the God of life not of death and destruction. God is the God of healing and walks with those suffering. We have not addressed the effects of depleted uranium that is destroying the water, food and land. I can say unequivocally "End War Forever" Our of Iraq, Out of Afghanistan."
I got a round of applause especially from the IVAW members.
One of the speakers was another mother from MFSO. She spoke of taking care of our soldiers when they come home. Please go to www.save-a-vet.org. "Save-a-vet NFP is an organization dedicated to the caring and well-being of all military and law enforcement working animals." Dexter, considered "equipment" by DOD, was present during the presentation. Dexter was a "MWD-military working dog, saved over 200 lives that fateful day by finding a truck filled with explosives" Dexter is the first dog that Randi's son has adopted as part of the program. Show your support of this wonderful new program. Thank you for your caring.
I met an IVAW member who needs support. He returned from Iraq with severe PTSD. His Ohio family labeled him "crazy" and threw him out of their family circle. He came up to me after the program and asked, "Would you like to be my mom? Maybe we could be family?" I replied, "We can be friends" I have his card with his email and will contact him. Another veteran, now living on the edge, the Real Cost of this and all wars.
Eugene Cherry made a movie with Matt Damon about Iraq. He is struggling to receive benefits for education from the VA. An ongoing struggle for so many. Eugene went AWOL and became a very public figure, I honestly don't think he will ever receive benefits of any kind from the military-payback for his work to bring out in the open the treatment of our veterans by this government who sends them into war-disposable equipment.
A truly fulfilling day. I felt energized when I left and hope to be able to speak out again many times in my life. I asked Mike-head of the AFSC in Chicago "Did I do well?" I am not good at extemporaneous speaking. Mike said, "Katy you did wonderfully well." I was relieved and happy and thought "I can die anytime and stand before my Maker unafraid." I have made mistakes but now I am speaking and living for peace and justice. It is enough!
A Workshop for Living
I attended a wonderful workshop on Friday. It was offered by the spouse of Heartland's Volunteer Coordinator who is a therapist. I am not sure the title but the exercises were excellent and I thought I would share with you.
His basic premise is that we are "raised into negative responses to life." We spend our lives in fear but as adults we can choose differently.
One of the exercises he led was to have us answer individually the following questions:
1.How do you think you are going to die?
2.How do you want to die?
(If the two disagree, what must you change in your life so that you will die as you want to die? Then commit to living the change.)
3.Who will be there while you are dying?
(If someone you would like to be there would not be there because of your relationship, it is time to work to heal that relationship)
4.What will they write on your tombstone?
5.What do you want to write on your tombstone?
(Again, if there is a difference, now is the time to discuss it, to change, to live it.)
My answers to the questions
1. I will die of old age or cancer (both parents died of cancer)
2. Old age
3. Children, grandchildren, siblings
4. Katy's continuing her journey of growth
5. Mother-Grandmother-Sister 1943-
Dene also had us experience affirmations through having people speak them in both ears at the same time. Write your own affirmations "What would you have liked to hear when you were a child? What would you like to hear now?" Then have a person on each side of you speak into your ears. Do it once a day or week, or month. We need affirmation as our lives are based on "keeping busy and not feeling our emotions and feelings."
Affirmations include:
You are loving
I am proud of you
I love you inside and out
I sincerely trust you
You make the world a better place
If you knew me you would love me
You can get anything you want
Although I won't write it here, much of our discussion was based on listening to music, especially of our childhood, teen years. Dene says,"The words of songs go directly to the unconscious" and form our worldview and life. They are some of the most important messages of our early formation.
So of course there was lots of music from the 40's, 50's, and 60's-based on our ages. The emotional energy in the room did change as we reminisced through the years and music. We became "lighter." I haven't been listening to music but I know I need to to reconnect to the past. I really liked the music created after Vatican II.
Another exercise that he encouraged us to do is to write 10 memories of childhood. These memories have shaped our lives-maybe unconsciously. I have not yet done it but plan to.
His basic premise is that we are "raised into negative responses to life." We spend our lives in fear but as adults we can choose differently.
One of the exercises he led was to have us answer individually the following questions:
1.How do you think you are going to die?
2.How do you want to die?
(If the two disagree, what must you change in your life so that you will die as you want to die? Then commit to living the change.)
3.Who will be there while you are dying?
(If someone you would like to be there would not be there because of your relationship, it is time to work to heal that relationship)
4.What will they write on your tombstone?
5.What do you want to write on your tombstone?
(Again, if there is a difference, now is the time to discuss it, to change, to live it.)
My answers to the questions
1. I will die of old age or cancer (both parents died of cancer)
2. Old age
3. Children, grandchildren, siblings
4. Katy's continuing her journey of growth
5. Mother-Grandmother-Sister 1943-
Dene also had us experience affirmations through having people speak them in both ears at the same time. Write your own affirmations "What would you have liked to hear when you were a child? What would you like to hear now?" Then have a person on each side of you speak into your ears. Do it once a day or week, or month. We need affirmation as our lives are based on "keeping busy and not feeling our emotions and feelings."
Affirmations include:
You are loving
I am proud of you
I love you inside and out
I sincerely trust you
You make the world a better place
If you knew me you would love me
You can get anything you want
Although I won't write it here, much of our discussion was based on listening to music, especially of our childhood, teen years. Dene says,"The words of songs go directly to the unconscious" and form our worldview and life. They are some of the most important messages of our early formation.
So of course there was lots of music from the 40's, 50's, and 60's-based on our ages. The emotional energy in the room did change as we reminisced through the years and music. We became "lighter." I haven't been listening to music but I know I need to to reconnect to the past. I really liked the music created after Vatican II.
Another exercise that he encouraged us to do is to write 10 memories of childhood. These memories have shaped our lives-maybe unconsciously. I have not yet done it but plan to.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
What a Historic Day! President Obama: New Beginnings.
What a historic day this is! I shall never forget it! A new beginning for our country. After the oath of office, I had to run to look at an apartment. The sky in Chicago was blue, the air cold but I felt like a new woman. I felt like a huge weight I had been carrying was lifted from my back and heart. Bush and his arrogant ignorance was no more our President. I can't write words to describe how I feel I only know that I walk "cleaner (without the burden of Bush) and taller" and like others have said, "Today, I am very proud to be an American.
I had to attend a IDT this morning. I work with all Republicans so NOT a word was said. The other chaplain led our prayer so next time I will say a prayer for our new President and his administration and the challenges WE all face because of the mess left to us by the last administration and his friends in Congress. Even Greenspan has admitted, "I should have not been for deregulation to the extent it occurred." Hindsight-Ugh. So we quickly finished our reports and I headed home to watch the inauguration on TV.
We are one hour earlier so I barely made it home in time. Covered myself up in a throw and cuddled down into my chair to watch! I began to cry as he came out on the platform. Obama's wife and children are so beautiful, what a wonderful first family picture they make. Let us pray the girls do well while they live in the White House. It was sad to hear that Sen. Ted Kennedy had a seizure during lunch and was taken to a hospital. Let us pray he does well. I felt with Kennedy's health it truly was a "passing of the baton" from one generation to the next and am glad that Sen Byrd and Sen Kennedy were present to experience it. Blessings on them both as they spent their lives working for justice for ALL of the American people.
It was good to see Pres. Carter and Al Gore, both looking good. I was thankful for their contributions to America. Both are bright examples of how Americans can continue to serve the common good, even in retirement! I am so glad that Pres. Obama took the time to do service on MLK Day. I think he brings such a "grass roots organizer (on high tech)" attitude to his work. I hope that all of America joins him in "remaking America for the 21st century"
On the other hand, Cheney was in wheel chair (hurt his back). I thought how appropriate, he is being wheeled out of the seat of power he has held for 8 years. I experienced him as Ratzinger was to JPII in his advanced stages of Parkinson's-the real power behind the scenes.
I feel as always that humanity is evolving, hasn't stopped since we first stood up on the savannas of Obama's father's home continent. To see Obama take the oath of office, I couldn't believe. I was 21 and had grown up in white bread Southfield MI when the Civil Rights act was passed. I was ignorant of the racism in America. I remember hearing about 4 children who died when racists burned a Catholic school in the South. I got married in 1964 and didn't really understand what was happening until MLK was killed and the riots occurred throughout America and in my own town of Detroit. Detroit has never been the same.
I had my own new beginning today. I had to look at an apartment today as I can no longer afford this one. The apartment is about 1/2 mile south and is a two bedroom but about $500 cheaper a month. My lease runs to 3/31 so I have some time to look. I am meeting with a woman at Home Sharing tomorrow. I am going to speak with my present landlord to see if he will permit me to sublet the second bedroom. If not, I will be very seriously looking to move.
An ending note: I watched Michelle and Barack dance together at the balls and thought of the Jack and Jackie and Camelot! I am old enough to remember them!
Blessings on Michelle and Barack, Blessings to you and our families, blessings on America and each peoples and country of the world. I think about the "photos from space" that do not show any political divisions-can't see them from space. Today we experienced the world without the demarcations of politics but through the eyes of One People, One World.
I had to attend a IDT this morning. I work with all Republicans so NOT a word was said. The other chaplain led our prayer so next time I will say a prayer for our new President and his administration and the challenges WE all face because of the mess left to us by the last administration and his friends in Congress. Even Greenspan has admitted, "I should have not been for deregulation to the extent it occurred." Hindsight-Ugh. So we quickly finished our reports and I headed home to watch the inauguration on TV.
We are one hour earlier so I barely made it home in time. Covered myself up in a throw and cuddled down into my chair to watch! I began to cry as he came out on the platform. Obama's wife and children are so beautiful, what a wonderful first family picture they make. Let us pray the girls do well while they live in the White House. It was sad to hear that Sen. Ted Kennedy had a seizure during lunch and was taken to a hospital. Let us pray he does well. I felt with Kennedy's health it truly was a "passing of the baton" from one generation to the next and am glad that Sen Byrd and Sen Kennedy were present to experience it. Blessings on them both as they spent their lives working for justice for ALL of the American people.
It was good to see Pres. Carter and Al Gore, both looking good. I was thankful for their contributions to America. Both are bright examples of how Americans can continue to serve the common good, even in retirement! I am so glad that Pres. Obama took the time to do service on MLK Day. I think he brings such a "grass roots organizer (on high tech)" attitude to his work. I hope that all of America joins him in "remaking America for the 21st century"
On the other hand, Cheney was in wheel chair (hurt his back). I thought how appropriate, he is being wheeled out of the seat of power he has held for 8 years. I experienced him as Ratzinger was to JPII in his advanced stages of Parkinson's-the real power behind the scenes.
I feel as always that humanity is evolving, hasn't stopped since we first stood up on the savannas of Obama's father's home continent. To see Obama take the oath of office, I couldn't believe. I was 21 and had grown up in white bread Southfield MI when the Civil Rights act was passed. I was ignorant of the racism in America. I remember hearing about 4 children who died when racists burned a Catholic school in the South. I got married in 1964 and didn't really understand what was happening until MLK was killed and the riots occurred throughout America and in my own town of Detroit. Detroit has never been the same.
I had my own new beginning today. I had to look at an apartment today as I can no longer afford this one. The apartment is about 1/2 mile south and is a two bedroom but about $500 cheaper a month. My lease runs to 3/31 so I have some time to look. I am meeting with a woman at Home Sharing tomorrow. I am going to speak with my present landlord to see if he will permit me to sublet the second bedroom. If not, I will be very seriously looking to move.
An ending note: I watched Michelle and Barack dance together at the balls and thought of the Jack and Jackie and Camelot! I am old enough to remember them!
Blessings on Michelle and Barack, Blessings to you and our families, blessings on America and each peoples and country of the world. I think about the "photos from space" that do not show any political divisions-can't see them from space. Today we experienced the world without the demarcations of politics but through the eyes of One People, One World.
Monday, January 19, 2009
To Remember MLK-a Service and an Action of Civil Resistance
Today Camp Hope celebrated the life and work of Martin Luther King with a rally at the Federal Plaza in downtown Chicago. In town for a month are men and women studying to be members of the Christian Peacemaker Teams. To remind you, since the first of the year, Israel has been bombing the Gaza strip with great loss of life. Israel stopped fighting today, the day before Obama is to be inaugurated President. CPT members have been in Gaza and the West Bank since their founding. (www.cpt.org/)
As part of their training the CPT members created three caskets draped with the Palestinian flag labeled: a mother killed in Gaza, a father killed in Gaza, and child sized casket titled: a child killed in Gaza. After the MLK memorial began it was announced that the CPTers would march to the headquarters of Boeing presenting a letter to the corporation to transform from making weapons to building for a sustainable economy.
We listened to speakers and sang songs of resistance to war and dedication to peace. I decided to join the march the 7 blocks through Chicago to the world headquarters of Boeing. Boeing makes the Apache helicopters used by Israel to war on Gaza with deadly force. The three caskets led the silent memorial march while one drum sounded a mournful beat. The caskets were carried by white-faced men and women draped in black. I carried my MLK quote "War is not the answer." I wept at the loss of life through war and the unimaginable injuries. Chicago police escorted us on the street side, keeping us on the sidewalk, probably one every 20 feet dressed in what looked like bike police uniforms with bright yellow jackets but heavy for winter.
Once at Boeing, only one person was permitted into the lobby to deliver a letter (a departure from earlier demonstrations I was told) Outside the building doors we gathered to recite a litany of sorrow for the violence against civilians in Gaza. Then we knelt on the ground to pray for those who have died and for peace. The police ordered us back to the sidewalk or we would be arrested. Two of the CPTers fell to the ground and were arrested, the rest of us returned to the sidewalk 10 feet away. Sr. Mary Kay and I headed for the L and a return home to dinner.
I am so honored to have attended Camp Hope and its memorial and action to remember MLK. Witnessing the non-violent civil resistance I felt MLK was with us and smiled on how we honored him today.
As part of their training the CPT members created three caskets draped with the Palestinian flag labeled: a mother killed in Gaza, a father killed in Gaza, and child sized casket titled: a child killed in Gaza. After the MLK memorial began it was announced that the CPTers would march to the headquarters of Boeing presenting a letter to the corporation to transform from making weapons to building for a sustainable economy.
We listened to speakers and sang songs of resistance to war and dedication to peace. I decided to join the march the 7 blocks through Chicago to the world headquarters of Boeing. Boeing makes the Apache helicopters used by Israel to war on Gaza with deadly force. The three caskets led the silent memorial march while one drum sounded a mournful beat. The caskets were carried by white-faced men and women draped in black. I carried my MLK quote "War is not the answer." I wept at the loss of life through war and the unimaginable injuries. Chicago police escorted us on the street side, keeping us on the sidewalk, probably one every 20 feet dressed in what looked like bike police uniforms with bright yellow jackets but heavy for winter.
Once at Boeing, only one person was permitted into the lobby to deliver a letter (a departure from earlier demonstrations I was told) Outside the building doors we gathered to recite a litany of sorrow for the violence against civilians in Gaza. Then we knelt on the ground to pray for those who have died and for peace. The police ordered us back to the sidewalk or we would be arrested. Two of the CPTers fell to the ground and were arrested, the rest of us returned to the sidewalk 10 feet away. Sr. Mary Kay and I headed for the L and a return home to dinner.
I am so honored to have attended Camp Hope and its memorial and action to remember MLK. Witnessing the non-violent civil resistance I felt MLK was with us and smiled on how we honored him today.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Closing Camp Hope 2009
Haven't written because I have been very busy with Camp Hope 2009, plus working two part time chaplain positions. I thought I would list the events I attended at Camp Hope, a really wonderful educational experience in a park 2 blocks from the Obama home, south side Chicago in Hyde Park near the University of Chicago campus.
January 1 Sunny and cold. Camp Hope opens. Great speakers with about 100 folks in attendance. Cathy Smith, mother of Thomas of the documentary "Body of War" was a keynote speaker challenging us to speak out now.
January 3 My birthday at CH-see separate post.
January 6 Pax Christi from St. Gertrude's attends Camp Hope in the afternoon. About 6 of us attended. We held our banners and waved to the commuters coming home from 3-6 PM. I stayed a little over an hour as I had brought another person with me and Roy was getting cold-hadn't dressed for it! Had to drive him home to the warmth!
January 7 headed over to the home of the Sacred Heart priests in Hyde Park. Listened to speakers discuss Obama's plan for withdrawing troops. Included Fr. Bob Bossie who worships with us at the Harold and Jeff Lay from Voices for Creative Non Violence. Bob arguing strongly that we must end war before it destroys us (as it has already played a part in destroying the economy)
January 8 My favorite speaker Col Ann Wright Ret'd was part of panel at Old St. Patrick's "Abandoning War: A Peoples' Agenda." She is most noted for having been one of the three State Dept officials to publicaly resign in direct protest of the march 2003 invasion of Iraq. Ann was joined by Michael McPhearson of Veterans for Peace and Stephen Kinzer foreign correspondent who has covered 50 countries on 5 continents.
Ann had just returned from a witness at Obama's Christmas vacation home in Hawaii. Articulate and to the point she called for an immediate end to the occupations in Iraq, Afghanistan and Gaza. Michael as an African American spoke of the hope in this election and president but strongly reminded us that we must do the work to bring peace. Stephen was excellent, this was the first time I heard him speak. He strongly concluded that there was no "winning a war in Afghanistan." The culture is "Don't invade my personal space, my home, my community, my country" and nation after nation-including Russia most recently has learned "You cannot win, you will go home."
Stephen informed us: The poppie crop is worth $4 billion on the market. We are spending $4 billion a MONTH on the war. Wouldn't it be more productive to buy the poppies (grown because there are no other crops by the poorest in the country) and save us an unwinnable war and $44 billion a year? I am willing to do just that.
January 11 Witness Against Torture Day all around the country. This is the day we opened Guantanamo to its first prisoners. Now widely acknowledge only 10% were captured on the battlefield, 90% were turned in most by Pakistanis who wanted the reward money! See the Oscar winning documentary "Taxi to the Dark Side" which exposes the highest levels of US Government as being the ones who gave the order for torture and rendition.
I presided in the morning with a theme of Stopping Torture. I had planned on going to the camp with everyone from the Harold but was called out to make a visit for hospice, a real disappointment for me. I spent 2 hours with the spouse who really needed me for emotional and spiritual support so I was okay with missing out.
In the evening I attended an excellent panel on torture. The panelists included:
January 14 Ali Abunimah, founder of the Electronic Intefadah spoke to about 100 of us on the crisis of violence in Gaza. Kathy Kelly founder of Voices is now in Gaza, she left immediately after the Camp opened, first to Egypt then into Gaza as soon as she could with the Christian Peacemaker Team present in the area. One of the members of from St. Gertrude's Kairos community is also there-Christina as part of the Christian Peacemaker Team.
Ali argues that for 60 years various proposals have been written and nothing accomplished. He presented that Palestinians now say, "The two state country will never work, the answer is to integrate both peoples into one country." May peace come to that tortured land. The massacre of civilians has been horrendous.
January 16 Pax Christi showed "Taxi to the Dark Side" mentioned above as part of Camp Hope. Mary spoke as a commentator to the movie and shared her own experience with Guantanamo.
January 17 A wonderful morning spent on Eco Justice (Eco-Justice Collarborative, www.ecojusticecollaborative.org.) Wonderful speakers from Chicagoland who brought us up to date on policy implications and the Obama administration. The bottom line create jobs for a sustainable green economy! Scientists have set 2016 as the tipping point for environmental destruction if global warming has not begun to be addressed. This is world wide for as bad as we are the US creates 25% of the gases creating global warming, China is coming on big time as a creator because of its high use of coal burning plants for energy.
I was present for 10 "days" at Camp Hope through being present or attending events sponsored by the Camp. I feel connected to the larger peace movement and pray that I might soon be able to join them full time.
See CampHope2009.org for more.
Now on to planning for the March 14 Anniversary of the Iraq war actions and march in Chicago.
January 1 Sunny and cold. Camp Hope opens. Great speakers with about 100 folks in attendance. Cathy Smith, mother of Thomas of the documentary "Body of War" was a keynote speaker challenging us to speak out now.
January 3 My birthday at CH-see separate post.
January 6 Pax Christi from St. Gertrude's attends Camp Hope in the afternoon. About 6 of us attended. We held our banners and waved to the commuters coming home from 3-6 PM. I stayed a little over an hour as I had brought another person with me and Roy was getting cold-hadn't dressed for it! Had to drive him home to the warmth!
January 7 headed over to the home of the Sacred Heart priests in Hyde Park. Listened to speakers discuss Obama's plan for withdrawing troops. Included Fr. Bob Bossie who worships with us at the Harold and Jeff Lay from Voices for Creative Non Violence. Bob arguing strongly that we must end war before it destroys us (as it has already played a part in destroying the economy)
January 8 My favorite speaker Col Ann Wright Ret'd was part of panel at Old St. Patrick's "Abandoning War: A Peoples' Agenda." She is most noted for having been one of the three State Dept officials to publicaly resign in direct protest of the march 2003 invasion of Iraq. Ann was joined by Michael McPhearson of Veterans for Peace and Stephen Kinzer foreign correspondent who has covered 50 countries on 5 continents.
Ann had just returned from a witness at Obama's Christmas vacation home in Hawaii. Articulate and to the point she called for an immediate end to the occupations in Iraq, Afghanistan and Gaza. Michael as an African American spoke of the hope in this election and president but strongly reminded us that we must do the work to bring peace. Stephen was excellent, this was the first time I heard him speak. He strongly concluded that there was no "winning a war in Afghanistan." The culture is "Don't invade my personal space, my home, my community, my country" and nation after nation-including Russia most recently has learned "You cannot win, you will go home."
Stephen informed us: The poppie crop is worth $4 billion on the market. We are spending $4 billion a MONTH on the war. Wouldn't it be more productive to buy the poppies (grown because there are no other crops by the poorest in the country) and save us an unwinnable war and $44 billion a year? I am willing to do just that.
January 11 Witness Against Torture Day all around the country. This is the day we opened Guantanamo to its first prisoners. Now widely acknowledge only 10% were captured on the battlefield, 90% were turned in most by Pakistanis who wanted the reward money! See the Oscar winning documentary "Taxi to the Dark Side" which exposes the highest levels of US Government as being the ones who gave the order for torture and rendition.
I presided in the morning with a theme of Stopping Torture. I had planned on going to the camp with everyone from the Harold but was called out to make a visit for hospice, a real disappointment for me. I spent 2 hours with the spouse who really needed me for emotional and spiritual support so I was okay with missing out.
In the evening I attended an excellent panel on torture. The panelists included:
- Mark Falkoff NIU, lawyer who represents Yemeni detainees in Guantanamo. He compiled and published a booklet of their writings.
- Flint Taylor, a lawyer in the People's Law Office who after 20 years got an ex-Chicago chief of police indicted for torture! Yes, it is true. And the techniques used were those taught by the military and used in Vietnam where he was a soldier! (They say the military with Iraq experience will do the same as the enter police careers)
- Mary (name changed), IVAW who served at Guantanamo as a prison guard. She was raped by fellow soldiers because she complained of their treatment of the prisoners under their guard. Spent a year in a military hospital for emotional healing. Has just begun to speak out against the war.
January 14 Ali Abunimah, founder of the Electronic Intefadah spoke to about 100 of us on the crisis of violence in Gaza. Kathy Kelly founder of Voices is now in Gaza, she left immediately after the Camp opened, first to Egypt then into Gaza as soon as she could with the Christian Peacemaker Team present in the area. One of the members of from St. Gertrude's Kairos community is also there-Christina as part of the Christian Peacemaker Team.
Ali argues that for 60 years various proposals have been written and nothing accomplished. He presented that Palestinians now say, "The two state country will never work, the answer is to integrate both peoples into one country." May peace come to that tortured land. The massacre of civilians has been horrendous.
January 16 Pax Christi showed "Taxi to the Dark Side" mentioned above as part of Camp Hope. Mary spoke as a commentator to the movie and shared her own experience with Guantanamo.
January 17 A wonderful morning spent on Eco Justice (Eco-Justice Collarborative, www.ecojusticecollaborative.org.) Wonderful speakers from Chicagoland who brought us up to date on policy implications and the Obama administration. The bottom line create jobs for a sustainable green economy! Scientists have set 2016 as the tipping point for environmental destruction if global warming has not begun to be addressed. This is world wide for as bad as we are the US creates 25% of the gases creating global warming, China is coming on big time as a creator because of its high use of coal burning plants for energy.
- Conservation and Efficiency (most gains doing this!) Informed Energy Decisions
- Say No to Coal-Pilsen Environmental Rights and Reform Org.
- You Can't Nuke Global Warming- Nuclear Energy Information Service www.nels.org
- Put a Fair Price on Carbon-Little Village Environmental Justice Org.
- Invest in the Power of the Sun-IL Solar Energy Assoc
- Green Jobs for All-Blacks in Green www.apolloalliance.org
- The People's Call for Justice-Oxfam International www.oxfamamerica.org
I was present for 10 "days" at Camp Hope through being present or attending events sponsored by the Camp. I feel connected to the larger peace movement and pray that I might soon be able to join them full time.
See CampHope2009.org for more.
Now on to planning for the March 14 Anniversary of the Iraq war actions and march in Chicago.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
After the Laundry: Off to Plan a March in March
We are now approaching the 6th anniversary of the Iraq War/occupation for oil, March 21st. So it is time for planning. I was surprised that Pre-planning had already produced a route, a permit application-city of Chicago and a host community. This time the Latina/Latino community near SW side of Chicago. It is called Pilsen and all the Latin organizations in Chicago are headquartered there. (If you recall, our last march was in the summer and was in the Pakistan/Indian community at Devon on the North side; again because of the immigration issue.)
About 60 of us attended this first all important meeting. This year it is very interesting because the type of jobs the majority of Latin persons have do not lend themselves for "after work" marches. So the planners picked Saturday March 14. (I believe two years ago we marched on Tuesday because we didn't want to compete.) Now if you know anything about March 14 in Chicago it is this "St Patrick Rules!" as this is the weekend before St. Pat's and Chicago is known for 2 parades: one downtown with the river being dyed green-very top secret as to how it is done but environmentally friendly we are assured. The other is on the Southside and now the largest and the rowdiest, I think about 100,000 folks show up to be Irish for the day. College students come from all over the Midwest to participate "in the traditional drinking of green beer."
We need a "banner phrase" The focus of the march is two fold; 1. The anniversary of the war/occupation and 2. Immigration rights as this is a major emphasis for our host community. Another important focus is the ANSWER coalition's call to march in DC on March 21. In Chicago we need to call all who can to get to DC to make sure that President Obama and the Democratically controlled get the message: We demand peace and justice both at home and abroad.
So we plan to meet next weekend to continue to "create the experience" for Chicago. How do we remember 1 million Iraqis killed, 4+million displaced our own soldiers killed and maimed, those who are committing suicide at the rate of 100 a week? How do we help educate that our economic crisis is connected to this war and the same officials who lied about the war had first hand experience of corruption which led to the financial woes which effect all human services and needs.
It was a very lively 3 hour meeting well run with consensus for decision making. We broke down into 4 working groups:
One of the suggestions which resonated with me was: Create a symbol that can be taken to DC for the 3/21 march. The symbol offered was baby dolls wrapped in red blankets to image loss of life of children in Palestine, Iraq, Pakistan, Afghanistan, children being lost in the SW desert, shot in the neighborhoods of Chicago. The list could go on.
Now I am exhausted after my aerobic laundry this morning, a three hour meeting in the afternoon, my own laundry when I got home at 7PM. It is time for me to say, "Blessings and Good Night"
About 60 of us attended this first all important meeting. This year it is very interesting because the type of jobs the majority of Latin persons have do not lend themselves for "after work" marches. So the planners picked Saturday March 14. (I believe two years ago we marched on Tuesday because we didn't want to compete.) Now if you know anything about March 14 in Chicago it is this "St Patrick Rules!" as this is the weekend before St. Pat's and Chicago is known for 2 parades: one downtown with the river being dyed green-very top secret as to how it is done but environmentally friendly we are assured. The other is on the Southside and now the largest and the rowdiest, I think about 100,000 folks show up to be Irish for the day. College students come from all over the Midwest to participate "in the traditional drinking of green beer."
We need a "banner phrase" The focus of the march is two fold; 1. The anniversary of the war/occupation and 2. Immigration rights as this is a major emphasis for our host community. Another important focus is the ANSWER coalition's call to march in DC on March 21. In Chicago we need to call all who can to get to DC to make sure that President Obama and the Democratically controlled get the message: We demand peace and justice both at home and abroad.
So we plan to meet next weekend to continue to "create the experience" for Chicago. How do we remember 1 million Iraqis killed, 4+million displaced our own soldiers killed and maimed, those who are committing suicide at the rate of 100 a week? How do we help educate that our economic crisis is connected to this war and the same officials who lied about the war had first hand experience of corruption which led to the financial woes which effect all human services and needs.
It was a very lively 3 hour meeting well run with consensus for decision making. We broke down into 4 working groups:
- Media and outreach-flyers, facebook, text messaging, etc.
- Program-speakers and entertainers about 1 hour at each end of the march
- Logistics-permits, security, insurance, stages, etc.
- Liaison with ANSWER for the bus trip to DC on the 21st
One of the suggestions which resonated with me was: Create a symbol that can be taken to DC for the 3/21 march. The symbol offered was baby dolls wrapped in red blankets to image loss of life of children in Palestine, Iraq, Pakistan, Afghanistan, children being lost in the SW desert, shot in the neighborhoods of Chicago. The list could go on.
Now I am exhausted after my aerobic laundry this morning, a three hour meeting in the afternoon, my own laundry when I got home at 7PM. It is time for me to say, "Blessings and Good Night"
Laundry...Let me tell you about laundry!
The United States is finally letting Iraqi refugees into our country. Chicago has about 600 family members living in our city with a large number living in our neighborhood. St Gertrude's has adopted a family of dad and 3 children ages about 7, 5, and 3. Now you may not know it but our government brings refugees to the US: provides 3 months of medicaid, food stamps, rental assistance THEN the person/family is on its own.
The only people being allowed in are those who played an active role in supporting US troops/interests in Iraq. I believe the father was a translator for US troops. They were placed in an apartment with used furniture, donated clothing etc. Well...bedbugs came along for the ride.
To eradicate bedbugs everything in the house must be laundered. If you can throw out bedding etc, that is done. If you can throw out the carpets that is done. A new mattress was purchased for each family member and sealed with plastic-recommended. All items must be washed in hot water and dried with "hot/high" heat.
So...laundresses were needed. No problem, I knew the task would be arduous and my back and arms are saying, "Oh Yah!" I have a Prius and it was loaded with bags of household items and all the clothes-many obviously gifts for the holidays and never worn-tags still on them. Ann and her mini van brought the rest. Some favorite stuffed toys including Spongepants Bob-I think that is his correct title. All the linens from beds, bath and kitchen. Oh my gosh, I knew we would need a lot of quarters. We used about 8 large loads at $4.50, 20+ loads at $3.00, and over 4 hours of drying at $1.00 a load. I had to leave for a meeting at 2 and the dryers were down to about 5-filled with hard to dry items. One not working -stayed cool.
I cannot even estimate how many pounds of clothing/linens I put into then pulled out wet from washers! My back says, "A whole lot!" I figure we put in about 12 hours total-most of that folding clothes. As I was leaving another volunteer was coming to take over the task. She had a mini van and as we folded we re-bagged the clothes: adult male, boys (couldn't separate the boy's clothing-too much) kitchen linens, bath linens, bed linens, coats, hats-mittens-scarfs. It was just like the women beating clothing against the rocks-just with a flat screen TV on one wall.
Then it was off to a meeting which is another entry!
The only people being allowed in are those who played an active role in supporting US troops/interests in Iraq. I believe the father was a translator for US troops. They were placed in an apartment with used furniture, donated clothing etc. Well...bedbugs came along for the ride.
To eradicate bedbugs everything in the house must be laundered. If you can throw out bedding etc, that is done. If you can throw out the carpets that is done. A new mattress was purchased for each family member and sealed with plastic-recommended. All items must be washed in hot water and dried with "hot/high" heat.
So...laundresses were needed. No problem, I knew the task would be arduous and my back and arms are saying, "Oh Yah!" I have a Prius and it was loaded with bags of household items and all the clothes-many obviously gifts for the holidays and never worn-tags still on them. Ann and her mini van brought the rest. Some favorite stuffed toys including Spongepants Bob-I think that is his correct title. All the linens from beds, bath and kitchen. Oh my gosh, I knew we would need a lot of quarters. We used about 8 large loads at $4.50, 20+ loads at $3.00, and over 4 hours of drying at $1.00 a load. I had to leave for a meeting at 2 and the dryers were down to about 5-filled with hard to dry items. One not working -stayed cool.
I cannot even estimate how many pounds of clothing/linens I put into then pulled out wet from washers! My back says, "A whole lot!" I figure we put in about 12 hours total-most of that folding clothes. As I was leaving another volunteer was coming to take over the task. She had a mini van and as we folded we re-bagged the clothes: adult male, boys (couldn't separate the boy's clothing-too much) kitchen linens, bath linens, bed linens, coats, hats-mittens-scarfs. It was just like the women beating clothing against the rocks-just with a flat screen TV on one wall.
Then it was off to a meeting which is another entry!
Sunday, January 4, 2009
A Slap to My Heart
Late on my birthday Jason sent this email:
Subject: Happy Birthday
Body: Hope you had pleasant holidays.
I just began to cry. Nice gift?
Subject: Happy Birthday
Body: Hope you had pleasant holidays.
I just began to cry. Nice gift?
Saturday, January 3, 2009
It is official: I am a Senior eligible for Full Social Security
Today is my birthday-turned 66 years old. Born during WWII, I become a senior during war: Israel is at war, we are going to increase troops in Afghanistan... the list grows every longer of Child of God killing/maiming Child of God. "When will we ever learn?" as the old song goes.
How to celebrate my birthday. The day started with my missing my "Happy Birthday" from the grand kids-sung over the phone. In a way it is good because I save it all the year and can listen whenever I need a picker upper. I have their Merry Christmas from 2007. I got the kids a web cam for Christmas so we could see each other while we talk but mom and dad must not have set it up yet.
Nothing for Christmas or my birthday from either Jason or Jodi. That makes me feel badly but after 2 years of no contact, I don't expect anything different. The healing of our relationship depends on Jason.
I didn't want to be alone today so I made 18 cupcakes and took veggie dip and cut up veggies to www.Camphope2009.org as I took part in the vigil for justice and peace about 2 blocks away from Obama's S Side Chicago home. It was cold in the low 30's and cloudy, rain had been forcasted but if felt like snow. However neither fell this afternoon. I stayed for about 3 hours as the Kairos community (study and action of non-violence) was the honor guard for today. Kathy Kelly, Nobel peace prize nominee was present for the morning.
We took pictures, we gave the cupcakes to the kids that passed by, the good folks sang "Happy Birthday" and ate the truffles I brought (given to me by a patient's spouse for Christmas). Everyone had a great time as we gently froze. Our warm up spots included a Subway and Walgreens and a rent a truck with back plastic-flap door (created by Voices for Creative Non-Violence, see http://vcnv.org/ I used the rest room in the Walgreens once.
We had a good time with the Rev. Finley Campbell an African-American UCC pastor who marched with MLK in Chicago. He is a fiery preacher and a walking history lesson. I really appreciated being with him. And will hear him again, I am sure on 1/19 as we close Camp Hope at the Federal building in Chicago.
We did get to see Obama "whiz by" as he headed home. First the Chicago police put cruisers at the intersection so noone could drive through. They sent a police captain (I think) to come to our corner where we knew immediately Obama must be coming through. Kathy Kelly offered the officer "cupcake or truffle" but he politely declined. Then to our left we saw a Chicago police car immediately followed by a stretch of black SUVs going way to fast for the neighborhood. We knew Obama was in one of them. A couple of folks said they saw him wave at us but the glass was too dark for me to catch sight of him.
What was scary was the SUV, windows down, with the SWAT team in gear holding huge weapons/rifles of some kind and looking nastily at us. They were by us in less than 10 seconds and into the "compound" made by barricades across the street and a Chicago police car that sits in the opening. Once your credentials are checked "he opens the gate" by backing up. He does the same if you are leaving the "compound" but didn't check credentials going out. So I can say "Obama came through my birthday party!" :-) We were hoping he would "stroll out one last time" and come to greet us, but at 4 when I left he hadn't walked the 2 blocks to do that. Too busy packing for the move to DC, I guess.
Someone proposed a CampHope for DC across from the hotel I understand he will be living at until he moves to the White House. We'll see if the energy to create Camp Hope will be there.
The organizers were discussing the length of day and the actual logistics of putting it up and taking it down every day. They were talking of bringing a BBQ for heat-no electric available. This vigil is going to be a rough one-just like the work Obama must do to lead our country in these difficult times. I will return on the 6th and the 11th and maybe other times if I can to help out
How to celebrate my birthday. The day started with my missing my "Happy Birthday" from the grand kids-sung over the phone. In a way it is good because I save it all the year and can listen whenever I need a picker upper. I have their Merry Christmas from 2007. I got the kids a web cam for Christmas so we could see each other while we talk but mom and dad must not have set it up yet.
Nothing for Christmas or my birthday from either Jason or Jodi. That makes me feel badly but after 2 years of no contact, I don't expect anything different. The healing of our relationship depends on Jason.
I didn't want to be alone today so I made 18 cupcakes and took veggie dip and cut up veggies to www.Camphope2009.org as I took part in the vigil for justice and peace about 2 blocks away from Obama's S Side Chicago home. It was cold in the low 30's and cloudy, rain had been forcasted but if felt like snow. However neither fell this afternoon. I stayed for about 3 hours as the Kairos community (study and action of non-violence) was the honor guard for today. Kathy Kelly, Nobel peace prize nominee was present for the morning.
We took pictures, we gave the cupcakes to the kids that passed by, the good folks sang "Happy Birthday" and ate the truffles I brought (given to me by a patient's spouse for Christmas). Everyone had a great time as we gently froze. Our warm up spots included a Subway and Walgreens and a rent a truck with back plastic-flap door (created by Voices for Creative Non-Violence, see http://vcnv.org/ I used the rest room in the Walgreens once.
We had a good time with the Rev. Finley Campbell an African-American UCC pastor who marched with MLK in Chicago. He is a fiery preacher and a walking history lesson. I really appreciated being with him. And will hear him again, I am sure on 1/19 as we close Camp Hope at the Federal building in Chicago.
We did get to see Obama "whiz by" as he headed home. First the Chicago police put cruisers at the intersection so noone could drive through. They sent a police captain (I think) to come to our corner where we knew immediately Obama must be coming through. Kathy Kelly offered the officer "cupcake or truffle" but he politely declined. Then to our left we saw a Chicago police car immediately followed by a stretch of black SUVs going way to fast for the neighborhood. We knew Obama was in one of them. A couple of folks said they saw him wave at us but the glass was too dark for me to catch sight of him.
What was scary was the SUV, windows down, with the SWAT team in gear holding huge weapons/rifles of some kind and looking nastily at us. They were by us in less than 10 seconds and into the "compound" made by barricades across the street and a Chicago police car that sits in the opening. Once your credentials are checked "he opens the gate" by backing up. He does the same if you are leaving the "compound" but didn't check credentials going out. So I can say "Obama came through my birthday party!" :-) We were hoping he would "stroll out one last time" and come to greet us, but at 4 when I left he hadn't walked the 2 blocks to do that. Too busy packing for the move to DC, I guess.
Someone proposed a CampHope for DC across from the hotel I understand he will be living at until he moves to the White House. We'll see if the energy to create Camp Hope will be there.
The organizers were discussing the length of day and the actual logistics of putting it up and taking it down every day. They were talking of bringing a BBQ for heat-no electric available. This vigil is going to be a rough one-just like the work Obama must do to lead our country in these difficult times. I will return on the 6th and the 11th and maybe other times if I can to help out
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