From August 25 to 31, nine Sisters from our Congregation decided to spend part of their summer vacation together in Pieniążkowice in the Podhale region, forming a community of different ages and nationalities. It was impossible not to notice that this time was prepared for us by God Himself, starting with the beautiful natural surroundings (and weather as well), through a house that encouraged us to be together and at the same time gave space for each of us individually, to the very composition of our temporary community.
We could go on and on about what we experienced during this special week. Breakfasts on the terrace overlooking the Tatra Mountains, walks in the meadows and forests, joint trips to nearby shrines (and more), “hydrotherapy” conducive to more and less serious conversations, evening card games, a shared table that was not “mandatory” and yet in a natural, spontaneous way always brought us together, the organization of the day giving us plenty of freedom without haste and respecting each person’s rhythm. Even something as ordinary as reading books in the same room and talking at the same time was a sign that we want to and know how to be gentle and sensitive to each other. Our vacation was also proof that we can be of different ages and speak different languages, but we will always communicate with the language of the heart.
Getting to know each other in the “vacation version,” when we can step out of our everyday roles, without the burden of our usual responsibilities, helps us to better understand the richness of the person next to us. This special time in Pieniążkowice is also proof that it is possible to relax well in the company of fellow sisters. And what we sometimes need most to renew our strength is to break out of the daily patterns that weaken the spirit.
s. Franciszka Jarnot