Every now and then I am jolted out of my comfortable world of complacency by the unexpected.
This month it was during an annual medical checkup when a strong recommendation was given for some testing. Sounds easy, doesn’t it.
But not if you are a longtime resident of the hamlet of hypochondria as I have been for most of my life. The new world of nuclear medicine is far easier than the cloak of anxiety that some of us needlessly wear. However, the lesson I learned as I filled out the mandatory form had nothing to do with my physical well being.
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Some of the answers came easily. They are rote. I am 5’7” tall, my eyes are blue, and my hair is brown (and don’t ask how or why. That’s not polite.)
However, as I reached the question relating to religion, my pen went into autopilot as I wrote Catholic. Then I suddenly stopped and recalled the many phone and email conversations I have had during the past weeks since the Cardinal McClintock revelations. The diverse cluster of friends and acquaintances who share my beliefs have been unanimous in confirming the damage this latest scandal has caused.
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We ponder on those who knew; those who hid the dreadful truth and those who still are in denial. Our communications have been sad, disappointed and reveal a disturbing lack of confidence that many of us now have in the liturgical hierarchy. The latest news from Pennsylvania is devastating in its valid analysis.
Yet today sitting in a doctor’s office and filling out the routine information, there was no hesitation in my written reply. Of course, I am a Catholic. Of course, I will remain a Catholic. Of course, I believe in the tenets of my faith.
And while I do not dispute the undeniable truth of the latest headlines, nothing will change my core beliefs. Because it is the Word of God that has enabled me to make this lengthy journey with so many unexpected miracles along the way, and will continue to provide the strength I need for any detours encountered as I continue.
I sign the questionnaire reaffirming my faith..
