by Susan Cisek
Connection has been a large part of our community. People have the opportunity to join from anywhere. What a gift! I was surprised that such strong connections could be made on Zoom with people I did not know prior to the chapel. When we share, we speak from “I” statements. I was raised in a family (and era) where it was not acceptable to begin statements with “I”, nor to talk about myself. I do believe it is an important part of our chapel experience as it prevents advice giving and preaching, while it helps keep the focus on me and what is happening in my relationship with God.
Sharing does not always come easy. My heart sometimes starts beating very quickly as I anticipate sharing. Like any new experience, little by little sharing comes easier and I get braver. I appreciate the silence between the sharing and the fact that no one is obligated to share. Many days I am struck by how a word or phrase from the chapel reading becomes important to my experience later in the day. It adds to the beauty of contemplation.
The variety of poetry, songs, visuals, and readings by various authors has kept the chapel new and vibrant! Many new songs have been added to my playlist and many authors to my list of books to read. I keep brief notes on most chapel days. (obviously very optional). One that immediately pops into my mind is the acronym … WAIT… why am I talking? So appropriate on many occasions!
The chapel has enlarged my heart. I can now share my heart with joy and sorrow at the same time… there’s plenty of room. In more and more situations I’m cognizant of the fact that life is not about me. Contemplation has opened my heart to love more, starting in my own home. My time in the chapel has helped me to pause, to pause before reacting or speaking and has certainly helped me to feel more centered during times of stress.
I love that our community holds our spoken and unspoken requests in prayer. We support each other in a nonjudgmental way, and it just feels safe.