CAPTIVATED BY THE OTHER

Among the many youngsters whom I have come into contact with, I was captivated by a group of boarders of which I happened to be fully in charge, during Practical Training. Yes, they fascinated me, and eventually, we touched each other’s lives. All came at a time when I had to put all my Novitiate and Philosophy theories to the ground; a young Salesian in the field! I strived to integrate Salesian virtues with daily life. I was often fond of the phrase, ‘Shall we,’ expressing the element of discernment for the boarding needs. Together we: planned; settled issues; encouraged each other; shared memories from visiting past pupils, family members, teachers during goodnight talks; discussed future plans; played and had fun together; studied; developed talents; had family gathering programs; and above all - prayed together especially Lectio Divina,, which was loved by many. One would easily notice the spirit of spontaneity and openness that was already prevailing; ‘We are happy we moved from home to home’, many boaders would shout at any moment of encounter with me or the Salesians around. They felt it was their home, parish, school and play ground, just as stated in the Salesian Constitutions Art. 40.

After a year, I was transferred to another area of apostolate. It is then that I received over 57 letters at once, expressing their yearning and longing for the spirit of life which we had together; their plans for the future and more so, the fact that some had privately declared to me that they wish to be and live like me. I had a lot to do in my new apostolic community but I had to spare time to reply at least a phrase to their messages. Up to today, some still communicate by email. I am happy that the youngsters are happy and they have reason and a vision for their lives. They are close at my heart!

Personally, I was taken up by all these boarders in the manner in which we journeyed and prayed together everyday, in spite of their delicate youth age, and that a good number were from the streets. I now notice that the Don Bosco’s Preventive system when lived in the roots of St. Francis de sales, makes life become prayer; touches the lives of the other around us and then spreads. We become living testimonies for others and the spirit of Joy and Optimism of Don Bosco becomes contagious. Life then becomes worth living.

Wanjala Moses
24th Ottobre, 2007.