The Rocky Mountain Collegian

In the life of a student at Saint Louis University, this is the time of year when you aren't quite sure if you're going to make it until that last day of the semester. The 24 hours in a day are not enough to fit everything in; from school and work to other activities, events, and commitments. Then, in the back of my mind are those things and people I wish I was giving more of my time and attention to right now--calling my aging grandparents, spending time with my younger sisters, thanking college mentors and professors who inspired me and engaging in service and social justice initiatives in the St. Louis community.

This Sunday's readings share the good news that the Spirit is in us, among us, and with us. The first reading from Isaiah reminds us that by calling on the Holy Spirit for guidance, we are granted a multitude of graces such as "wisdom, strength, understanding, and counsel." This offers hope in my desire to live an integrated life; to embrace myself as a graduate student, research assistant, family member and friend, and weave these roles seamlessly into my identity as a Catholic, my life-changing experiences through service, and my passion for learning about social justice issues fueled by these experiences.

One of these transformative experiences occurred the summer after my freshman year of college when I lived and served in an immigrant community near Immokalee, FLA. I vowed never to forget the anger I felt after experiencing firsthand the injustices of families being crammed into swampy, unsanitary camps across from the tall gates of fenced-in country club communities. Through my work with their children, I learned about the challenges of breaking a cultural and language barrier, and the obstacles to achievement for these gifted individuals due to problems with the school system, gangs, and a lack of role models.

My frustration was tempered by the joy I found in those I met, which also allowed me to find hope through relationships and know that I could work for changes with my life. Upon returning to college, I was faced with the challenge of reconciling what I had experienced with my faith convictions and articulating and integrating this into my academic and extracurricular framework. Through mentors, prayer, and learning about the social teachings of Catholicism, I discovered a vibrant faith that entailed a responsibility to others and becoming involved in the world to serve where I am needed. For me, this understanding brought the readings and sacramental grace of the Sunday Mass to life. The power of liturgy, prayer and faith ground these experiences in a framework of hope. I found direction and solace in the Jesus of the gospels, a perfect model of how to serve and be served, whose presence and message is just as vibrant and alive today as it was 2000 years ago.

The challenge that ensues is to keep such experiences and lessons alive, and in some way present and integrated into my life. My desire to work for structural change with and on behalf of those who are voiceless or suffering injustices is not as tangible at present. Still, I try to integrate my passion into the learning and serving of my role now, and see my graduate studies as a way to prepare for a future position that will engaging these interests.

The graces of the Holy Spirit such as wisdom, understanding, and strength are not just aids in getting through the daily grind, but components for cultivating the selfless love of God. To love those around me seems simple, yet it requires much grace and courage to be open and responsive to others, without imposing my agenda or overlooking need that does not fit in my schedule.

Being more aware of the ways the Spirit is in and around me each day is reminiscent of Matthew's gospel this Sunday, which says "prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths." In my life, this is a reminder that the fleeting images and emotion-filled memories of service experiences are not futile, but the Spirit working in me, reopening doors that I continuously shut in an effort to stick to a schedule, meet deadlines, and accomplish my duties. Even with a full plate, these memories are reminders that I must be aware of doors that open where I may be able to respond in even a small way to needs of others in the community. Equally as important, I am also being called to remember not to overlook or take for granted those closest to me, such as the family members, friends, and mentors who have been pillars of support, inspiration and guidance, and joy in my life.

God calls us all to live lives of love by constantly considering what gifts and talents are being called forth from us to meet the needs and hopes of those around us. Cultivating this awareness, being open to the needs of others and pondering these questions are indeed some ways I can prepare for Christ's coming.

Lisa Lachky, a graduate student in the College of Public Service, works for the VOICES Project which seeks to enhance a sense of vocation in all members of the University community. For other reflections by SLU students in the VOICES program go to: http://studentmass.slu.edu.

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