“To write is to embark on a journey whose final destination we do not know. Thus, writing requires a real act of trust. We have to say to ourselves: “I do not yet know what I carry in my heart, but I trust that it will emerge as I write.”

Writing is like giving away the few loaves and fishes one has, trusting that they will multiply in the giving. Once we dare to “give away” on paper the few thoughts that come to us, we start discovering how much is hidden underneath these thoughts and gradually come in touch with our own riches.”

Henri J. M. Nouwen

At the breakfast table, we sisters talk with one another about what is going on in our country, and we share on matters, political, social, economic, and cultural. Such conversations refresh me as another new day begins. Through such dialogue, I understand more clearly the gradual changes taking place in me and in the community where I live.

I was professed as a Sister of Our Lady of the Missions in 1966 and so learned about the changes proposed by Vatican II with enthusiasm as encouraged by my congregation.

Since then, I have been able to participate in different congregation programmes, some long and some not so long, as well as in church-sponsored programs here in Myanmar. I discovered that the Church recognizes that the modern world is where God calls us to be. What has heartened me since the Council is that we are now called to contextualize our theology, our spirituality and way of life.

When I first heard the expression “Applied spirituality” in 2018 I felt joy and happiness because my RNDM sisters and I are being empowered to develop our talents and gifts and so able to engage creatively according to our own cultures in the ministries assigned to us. As an RNDM I still desire to deepen my understandings of mission in our rapidly changing world being transformed through ever evolving technologies. Continuing to learn means I have to step out of my comfort zone to be of service in a different way.

After having heard the talk, “Mission in the Digital World,” presented by Maria Esther Palma Gonzalez SEMD on a zoom program organized by our congregation leadership team earlier this year, and the invitation of Veronica Dunne to write for the RNDM Canada website, I was determined to be a “Digital Missionary,” finding joy in learning, and exploring along with others!

Within me I felt joy, happiness, hope and excitement along with struggles on what and how to write like a shoot struggles to come out of the seed. Yet, I have great confidence to write because I have many good friends who assure me of their support on this new adventure. I am excited to explore and share with others and open to receive any comments. It is a great privilege to be part of a bigger world community and journey together. I am inspired by the words of Henri J. M. Nouwen I referred to at the beginning of my blog.

I close with words of the RNDM founder (Euphrasie Barbier) on 03 September 1877, to Sr. M. Of the Agonizing Heart, in Lyon:

“Take advantage of all the opportunities which our Lord gives you in order to advance in virtue.”