The last couple of weeks have been extremely full and varied, containing much potential for written reflections. I was part of a radio feature about Call the Midwife, and spent a couple of days with some enclosed nuns, gaining new insights into their vocation and mine. A sudden spell of extremely mild weather at the end of February made plants think it was already spring, causing a profusion of magnolia and azalea, with hyacinths and primroses strewing our paths. The Mass readings have been extremely rich, our country continues to teeter chaotically on the edge of the Brexit abyss, and then last Wednesday we entered the season of Lent. So much to reflect on... plus a period of busyness and a few deadlines, so that each time I have started to process and write about one thing, something else has come along and cut across it, causing me to swerve and change my focus and perspectives.
And then, on Ash Wednesday evening, one of our sisters died after a very short illness. Dorothy was 94, and despite increasing health problems, she had continued to see friends and live life as fully as possible, almost to the end. She was fondly remembered by generations of students, many of whom she kept in touch with, and was well known within the Church and educational circles. The records will show that Dorothy Bell RSCJ was Principal of Digby Stuart College for twenty years, sat on various commissions and governing bodies, received an OBE and other honours... but all these awards and achievements weren't the main substance of the tributes I have seen, on social media, in messages and reminiscences.
She was always kind to me... so supportive... a long-standing friend... always interested... always willing to be of service... gave some excellent advice... inspiring... a delight to be with... These were the contents of peoples' treasuries of memories and appreciation, because these are the things that matter most to us. Yes, we can applaud achievements, but at a much deeper level we will never forget kindness or how someone makes us feel. She was 'old school', said one woman, meaning the best of the attitudes and behaviour we often associate with yesteryear: and indeed, others recalled her fidelity in sending hand-written thank you notes for even the smallest of services rendered, or an event she had attended. Looking back, I too can recall cards bearing greetings, encouragement and care, her keen interest in my work and studies, and her quiet solicitude when she knew I was putting a brave face on something very hard.
An American alumna, who had formed a strong friendship with Dorothy, sent me this photo of us together. Commenting on Dorothy's smile, she referenced an article on our website, referring to the motto Dorothy received when she made her perpetual vows in 1956 - My heart is yours, take it. And this, undoubtedly, was what lay at the core of Dorothy's life - and needs to be at the heart of ours. Give our hearts to God, primarily and fundamentally; freely and unreservedly offered, and accepted, in ways we can never begin to anticipate. And then, flowing from this primordial gift, comes the ability to give our hearts to others, in faithful friendship, kindness, a lively interest, loving concern and so many 'little' ways.
In here lies greatness, true greatness, measured on an eternal scale. And it is chiefly for this greatness of heart that Dorothy will continue to be remembered, and for which her name will be written in heaven, whatever the earthly records will say...
And then, on Ash Wednesday evening, one of our sisters died after a very short illness. Dorothy was 94, and despite increasing health problems, she had continued to see friends and live life as fully as possible, almost to the end. She was fondly remembered by generations of students, many of whom she kept in touch with, and was well known within the Church and educational circles. The records will show that Dorothy Bell RSCJ was Principal of Digby Stuart College for twenty years, sat on various commissions and governing bodies, received an OBE and other honours... but all these awards and achievements weren't the main substance of the tributes I have seen, on social media, in messages and reminiscences.
She was always kind to me... so supportive... a long-standing friend... always interested... always willing to be of service... gave some excellent advice... inspiring... a delight to be with... These were the contents of peoples' treasuries of memories and appreciation, because these are the things that matter most to us. Yes, we can applaud achievements, but at a much deeper level we will never forget kindness or how someone makes us feel. She was 'old school', said one woman, meaning the best of the attitudes and behaviour we often associate with yesteryear: and indeed, others recalled her fidelity in sending hand-written thank you notes for even the smallest of services rendered, or an event she had attended. Looking back, I too can recall cards bearing greetings, encouragement and care, her keen interest in my work and studies, and her quiet solicitude when she knew I was putting a brave face on something very hard.
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| In the porch of Cottesmore church July 2013 |
In here lies greatness, true greatness, measured on an eternal scale. And it is chiefly for this greatness of heart that Dorothy will continue to be remembered, and for which her name will be written in heaven, whatever the earthly records will say...
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