Re-Opening to a New Normal

A New Day
by Megan Burdolski, Director of Stewardship

“No matter what yesterday was like, birds always start the new day with a song.” - Unknown

It’s the dawn of a new day. In our city, businesses have re-opened, people have returned to their offices after two months of working from home, public Masses have resumed. But it’s not a return to “normal.” It’s anything but. Social distancing, curbside pick-up, face masks, occupancy limitations and plexi-glass dividers have replaced the familiar and become our new “normal.”

As we learn how to live our lives amidst these new restrictions, it is more important than ever
that we try to be the best humans we can be and love our fellow man in the way that Jesus taught us. We need to behave as stewards - -
            - Grateful each morning for the new day we have been given
            - Respectful of the protocols put in place for our safety
            - Conscious of those whose are apprehensive about being out in public
            - Aware of the those who cannot have visitors but may need to hear from us via phone,
              email or video chat
            - Willing to do what we are able to help those in need
            - Mindful of those who may need our prayers
            - Sensitive to the needs of others
            - Interested in making the best of our current situation

A few years ago, I utilized the following poem by Robert Morneau in one of my weekly bulletin columns on stewardship. The poem spoke to me and as I was pondering the status of my own heart, I got to thinking about how the poem speaks to our faith and stewardship as well. Are we open to the opportunities to be a good steward that present themselves to us? Are we receptive to the changes brought about by our new “normal?” Can we recognize the face of Jesus in each new day during these challenging times? The references to “open” and “closed” likely have many more possible meanings to each of us today.

“Open”
The sign hung inside the window: "Open" 
With a flick of a wrist and one quick turn, the sign now read: "Closed." 
We've seen the sign on business doors, libraries, even churches. 
Public facilities have their days and seasons of availability and closure. 
As God walks the universe and encounters human souls, 
a sign hangs at the entrance of every mind, of every heart. 
                               Is it "Open" or "Closed"? The Lord awaits our decision.                              


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