Looking back, looking ahead
November 18, 2021
Autumn colors, shortening days, and the final campus classes until the new year. Already?
Some of us began this week on a cold morning in the warm company of those who came before us, celebrating together the life of Janet Fortin — a leader of one of the families that defines the Xavier community we know.Now, on the cusp of Thanksgiving, my reflections turn to the daily examen of Ignatius Loyola.
The examen, framed by gratitude, invites us to look back. Oh, the past year. So much! At times so hard, so tiring. With sustaining gifts and graces interspersed.
How can I respond, except with thankfulness?
And then to look ahead. What's next? I can't yet see that clearly.
I face the next November day in a spirit of melancholy hope. Exhausted. Excited. Grateful for the past, ready for what's next.
May the week ahead bring you rest, peace, and sustaining hope, in the company of those you love. That is my prayer and petition today.
