Coming Together for the 2017 Eclipse

       What is the excitement for the week? The marvelous eclipse, of course! I was asked several times in the preceding days, “Are you having a viewing party?”  The answer was “of course.” The sisters were able to obtain 20 viewers for the occasion.

         We gathered near the parking lot on the south side of the building on a gorgeous sunny day. Chairs were set up and out came the wheelchairs and walkers as well. Some leaned against cars to stabilize looking straight up. Some moved among the crowd, sharing viewers and checking that they were used properly. Some went inside to cool off where a TV was showing the NASA views and at times the local scene as well.To enhance the party aspect we had solar punch, a specially crafted orange punch. The conversation was lively but there were also silent pauses filled with awe. Although we did not have totality, the show was mighty impressive and enhanced the splendor of the God Most High.

         The celebration continued at the evening meal. A display of serious hors d’oeuvres included hankypankies with a meat center and a golden party rye surround and a cheese ball sculptured disc with black bean center and cheddar cream cheese edge. Dessert included large round cookies with chocolate centers and sparkly sugar rims.

        The TV showed people crying for the sheer thrill of being present for such a monumental experience. What brought tears to my eyes was the thrill of so many people of all varieties and backgrounds from all across the country coming together, taking in the event in peaceful togetherness. I was awakened by the line from Psalm 85 used at Mass Tuesday. “Kindness and truth shall meet; justice and peace shall embrace.” For one day in this year filled with upheavals we came together.

                               Sr. Mary Rabe, OSB