Change of view
Our view on things often requires us to adapt, to change, or to move…It’s a challenge, but it’s also a moment where we can make a new beginning. The Little Sisters of Vienna (Austria) recently had just such an experience.
Wow! What a mammoth job, to pack everything up, and then unpack it, finding a new place for everything. Practically speaking, our move is just about finished.
I’m sitting at my desk in this new place for the first time, looking out the window. I’m still having trouble believing it. It had already been quite a while since we began wondering if we shouldn’t look for a new location in Vienna. Then out of the blue this apartment became available, and we all felt it was one of those “kairos” moments it would behove us not to miss. We made the decision to move rather quickly. And here we are, already in our new place!
Sitting here, my view has changed greatly. Just a few days ago the magnificent Church of St. Anthony filled my gaze. We lived next to that church for 21 years, and we loved the view. We also loved being able to go to Mass just a few steps from home. Seeing the statue of Christ on top of the dome was often a source of comfort for me, and an invitation to prayer. There stood Christ, watching over the city and blessing it.
When I look out my window now, I see a large section of the city which Christ is blessing. I see apartment buildings, and a little park full of trees and children playing. I see people looking out their windows, laundry drying on the balconies, lights at night…I see life, and it makes me happy. It’s strange how much we already feel at home in this new house.
We used to live on a hill, but now we’re close to a market, right in the middle of the neighborhood. Now we have an extra room, and a handicapped-accessible entrance. There have been four of us in community this last little while, and all these things already help, and surely will continue to be helpful going forward. On top of that, we’re in a friendly environment, close to people who are dear to us.
The move would not have been possible without the help of numerous people. Over the last few weeks, we’ve been the recipients of so much good will and support, including financial help. It’s always moving to see to what degree our own poverty elicits the kindness of others. “My grace is sufficient for you, for it is in weakness that my power is fully manifested.” (2 Cor 12:9). Yes indeed, the strength and providence of God clearly sustained us throughout this difficult time of transition. So many small things fell into place in such an extraordinary way.
Our new environment is much humbler, our neighbors’ lives more precarious. It is more hectic, more noisy, more dirty…Since we first arrived in this very multicultural neighborhood the people have spoken to us and cared for us in a most warm and welcoming way. Some of them showed themselves immediately helpful, carrying our bags or offering their services. They even served cold drinks to the folks who helped us move. It was really touching!
We are lucky to be able to set out anew. At this point in our lives such a possibility is a real gift, and not something to be taken for granted. What a grace that we dared to make this step! It already all seems well worth it.
L.Sr. Sabine with L.Srs. Anita-Maria, Brigitta-Maria, and Waltraud-Irene
