With new clothing and a new name. Everything still feels strange, and it takes me forever to react when someone addresses me by my new name.
But now, when I look in the mirror, I suddenly see a sister. I don’t feel any different than before, but I look completely different. And as one of the older sisters said: “Much more beautiful than before!”
The clothing ceremony itself was truly beautiful. And even though my whole family was crying in my arms afterward, I was filled with immense joy. I have said yes to God’s call to me and want to surrender myself entirely to HIM. Without fear. With boundless trust.
And I know for certain that HE will give me what I need and that HE will never abandon me. The days of the retreat have made me newly aware of how endless, unceasing, and limitless HIS love for me is. To be able to be completely there for HIM is an immense gift.
The Eucharist following the clothing ceremony was also simply beautiful, full of gratitude for our Father and Creator - since we celebrate Thanksgiving today
I know that my decision hurts my family, but I hope that one day they will all be able to say that it was a good decision and that they have not lost me because of it. Even with a new name and habit, I am still their daughter, sister, and aunt, and will remain so.
I am choosing a different life than they had imagined for me, but not because they weren’t good enough. On the contrary, having such an amazing family gives me the strength to walk this path. So, THANK YOU!! to everyone who has accompanied me so far and to everyone who will continue to be there for me.
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