Questions Answered

I am coming up on my 4-month-iversary with the Mountain. I have been reflecting on my experiences here the past couple of days (things are slowing down a lot). Whenever I see people and describe what I am doing here, or visit those familiar with this place, the first question is always, "So, do you like it?" I am afraid I haven't given it a fair shot. Things in my life outside of here have been all topsy turvy the past few months; there have been a lot of changes for me, and not all of them have been good. It's hard to separate the feelings I've had about those changes from my feelings about the Mountain itself, because I tend to be a big old mushpot of feelings who has a hard time separating them out. So, is my life here good? Yes. Are the guys I live with good to me? Absolutely. I hope that answers your questions.

Two weeks ago, I was in a car accident. I am fine and so is the other driver. The only injuries were both our cars. It has been hard to rejoice in that through all the stress of dealing with insurance companies and wondering what the outcome would be for my beloved Baby Red (my car). I am starting to realize, though, how incredibly lucky I was. The impact occurred on the driver side of my car, and had the other driver been speeding, I would have been much worse off than simply bumping my head. And, as it turns out, the car is fixable for close to the amount the insurance company gave us. Basically, I continue to be the luckiest girl in the world. Enough about the accident, since it continues to be one of my least favorite topics.

We had the annual Advent overnight a couple of weeks ago, with Bonaventure students coming up to the Mountain to put up and decorate the tree and a wreath. The tree decorating ceremony was one of the most beautiful things I've ever taken part in. Each person would choose an ornament or two, then pray aloud for someone or something as they placed the ornament on the tree. It was incredible to hear some of the things these people have been through, and all that is on their minds and hearts. I don't remember how much time passed, but I do remember being awestruck at the reverence shown by all present throughout the entire ceremony. It really helped me to open up to the Advent season.

I hope you are all having a joyous Advent season and that you have a very Merry Christmas! I will be heading home to celebrate with my family in the next week, and I am so excited!