The Abbess should always remember what she is and
what she is called, and should know that to whom more is
committed, from her more is required (Luke 12:48). Let her understand
also what a difficult and arduous task she has undertaken: ruling
souls and adapting herself to a variety of characters. One she must coax,
another scold, another persuade, according to each one's character and
understanding. Thus she must adjust and adapt herself to all in such
a way that she may not only suffer no loss in the flock committed to her
care, but may even rejoice in the increase of a good flock.
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Again, seeing myself
as the "abbot" of my family, I can't claim to have always been
mindful of my role. Yes, I tell you I was aware of my title and professed to
knowing the role and responsibilities but being able to read the title of a
book and knowing the contents are two different things. I was not, of course, a
total washout but I would love to have had another focus, genuine interest in
the well-being of the family rather than simply being worried about how I might
be affected by anything said or done by one of my children or my spouse.
I wish I had done as
well as parent and spouse as I did as a manager or boss. When there was nothing
personal at stake, I could nail it but the minute my self-esteem or ego were at
risk, watch out.
There is little call
now to be a parent but I make every effort to be aware of what my role is and
what is expected that I might be of service. Of course, I am still very much a
work in progress with my spouse.
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