By Karen Guera
I took my “leap of faith” in the Still Point community when I was encouraged to join Adventures in Contemplation at St. Margaret Mary Parish in Naperville circa 2019. The once-a-week, in person adventure met for several weeks, with a homework commitment of a daily 20 minute “sit” (meditation). I wasn’t sure I could discipline myself to take on this commitment, but I was seeking faith. Adventures in Contemplation led me to the Zoom meditation chapels. My religious curiosity was sparked so I gave it a try, still not certain I could commit. Now, 2025, I continue to meditate daily and attend regular weekly chapels.
The Still Point meditation chapels have become a huge part of my spiritual routine and my week. I feel empty if I miss a chapel. There are days when I’m pressed but I find if I make time, I leave chapel feeling fulfilled, that I was supposed to attend and be present.
Whether I share or just listen or my head is noisy or cooperative, I always feel refreshed after each chapel. I started this journey searching for faith. Still Point helped me to realize my journey actually began in my youth. Thanks to my faithful mother who didn’t force faith but invited me to participate in her journey. It was during a chapel session that I realized the impact and influence my mother had on my faith journey early on in my life.
I continue to learn about myself in the quiet. I have become more confident with sharing my faith outside of chapel. Through the quiet, the reflections and the sharing I have noticed changes. I’m aware and try to redirect bad habits. I don’t worry as much. I channel and try to control my anxieties and anger. My journey is ongoing. I have learned to accept and move on and try again. AND pray, pray, pray.
I am thoroughly grateful to have found this online community. I enjoy the seasonal retreats and social, in person gatherings. I enjoy seeing my chapel friends at church and even around town. What a gift I have gained from this journey, and what a gift I receive from the dedicated and creative hosts who prepare the readings, the music and the images that guide me through the sacred hour. I feel the power of prayer, when we pray our petitions together. I’ve learned a lot about breathing, quieting my mind, becoming alert and living in the moment, all leading me closer to God.
Thank you for sharing your journey. Your reflection inspired and touched me. I have struggled with silent meditation but now feel inspired to try it again.
Karen,what an inspiration!
Thank you, Karen. Beautiful and heart felt reflection.
Beautiful reflection, Karen! Thank you for sharing !
Thank you Karen. You are a blessing and gift to all of us on chapel.
Karen, you are beautiful inside and out. I love it when you share your insights in Chapel and I love it when you are silent and present. Grateful for you, Mary Jo
Karen! Not only do I smile when I see your face in chapel, my heart delights when you share from your heart, both silently and aloud. Thank you for blessing us with this beautiful personal reflection 🙏🏼
Thank you Karen, for this heartfelt reflection . You are certainly one of the many blessings that Still Point has brought into my life. Your example of consistent presence and thoughtful participation helps encourage me to do the same.
You are an inspiration to me each and every day! Thank you for sharing this – and your faith and love. I love you so much!
I’m so grateful for the love and faith that you share — with me, and all the lucky people who cross your path. You are a light! And the most amazing person and sister. I love you!
Karen, I am deeply grateful for your presence on the Still Point Chapel. Your reflection is so honest and open, just the way I have known you on chapel. I consider you a spiritual mentor to me and to many others. Thank you for sharing.