My house arrest just ended. I just got my car keys back and have permission to drive no longer than one hour distant from my home. You might think that, along with Richard Nixon, I might say, "I am not a crook!” But, you’d be wrong.
Different from Richard Nixon, my restrictions were a result of surgery on both of my feet. My sentence was staying off my feet for five weeks. Only short trips to the "necessary room" and the kitchen were allowed. The first two weeks weren't bad, and the pain supported the mandate. The second two weeks were ok but boring. The final week was torture. I couldn't wait for independence, to drive my car, and do something as simple as going to the grocery store.
After the pain subsided, I found myself reflecting on my situation. The Oblate Constitutions state, "The Oblate who is ill will strive to bear the suffering and discomfort of his illness in union with Christ. He should accept them with resignation, patience, and a spirit of penance, convinced that in so doing, he works more effectively for his salvation and the coming of God's kingdom." So, being a good Oblate, I watched Netflix, read mindless novels, and rearranged knick-knacks on my shelves. My resolution to clean up my computer, streamline my million and a half passwords, and discard thousands of unnecessary photos on my computer didn't happen.
In a way, I did follow the Constitution above. Occasionally, I reflected, that at 70 years old, I'm closer to pushing up daisies than ever before. Most of my siblings, even those much younger than me, are retired - not me! Aches and pains are my companions most days, and what hair I have left is white. A friend saw an old photo of me recently, and remarked, "I have a hard time thinking of you as a redhead." I used to be!
Gratefully, a saving grace occurred during this time of sober reflection, November. The month is devoted to remembering saints and souls. While at times God seems obscure or hidden, our loved ones who precede us remain in our memories and hearts always. Those who shared our faith encourage us to look up, trust in the eternalness of life, live in hope amid pain, suffering, loss, and sorrow - a great blessing. With memories of holy, loving deceased relatives and brother Oblates, my heart turned to our union with Christ filling me with a sense of peace and comfort. The Constitution above came to life and brought hope and purpose despite my sore feet. The wisdom and grace of our Church continue to guide and nourish.
Fr. Jack Loughran, OSFS
Provincial
Toledo-Detroit Province
