A Full Season, a Centered Life

 by Ida Williams


Growing up on a farm, I learned that fall meant hurry. There was work to finish, a harvest to bring in, and weather that would not necessarily cooperate. The days grew shorter while the list of things to do seemed to grow longer.

These days, my work looks very different, but that feeling is familiar.

I am often thinking about the next assignment before I have finished the one in front of me. What if an email comes in? Someone may be waiting for an answer. If I can just get this done, I can get to that. Even when there is a pause, I sometimes find myself waiting for the next thing that needs my attention.

Recently, I came across an article in Epoch Health about “hurry sickness.” The phrase certainly caught my attention. I recognized that sense of always being pressed for time—and how easily it can follow us through the day.

It also made me think about what I can learn from the monks and nuns of New Skete.

There is plenty of work here, and much of it comes with deadlines. Yet the reason for the monasteries’ existence is the Lord. Prayer, worship, and contemplation of His greatness are at the heart of this life. The daily work takes its place within that larger purpose.

I know how easily I can reverse that order. I will take a quiet moment after I answer these emails. I will pause when the list is shorter. But there is always another email, and the list rarely stays short for long.

The monastic rhythm offers a lesson I need: turn toward God in the midst of a full day. Give Him our attention while there is still work waiting to be done.

And this is certainly a full season at New Skete. In this issue, you will find news about:

  • The upcoming Fall Retreat, offering time for prayer, reflection, and fellowship.
  • Seekers’ Weekend, welcoming those interested in exploring monastic life.
  • The preparation of homilies for Sunday Divine Liturgies, an ongoing ministry of reflection and teaching.
  • Cheesecake and fruitcake baking for the holiday dessert season, along with cheesecake fundraisers supporting local schools and civic organizations.
  • Puppies, dog training, and an October focus on the Dog Supporter Circle, whose support helps dogs stay with the families who love them.
  • Podcast production, as we continue learning and making adjustments throughout our first season.
  • Preparations for the coming holiday season.

Each deserves its own space in the sections that follow. Together, they offer a glimpse of the many ways prayer, work, hospitality, and service fill the life of these communities.

Perhaps that is my harvest lesson for this year. There is satisfaction in bringing the work to completion, and real responsibility in tending to what has been entrusted to us. There is also a need to pause, give thanks, and remember the One who gives that work its meaning.

I am still learning to do that. This fall, I hope to spend a little less time mentally rushing toward the next task and a little more time attending to God—and to the person or work He has placed before me.

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