IN LITTLE WAYS
Twenty-seven years ago, I was invited to write a column on how a recent convert experiences Catholic life. “A Convert’s View” debuted on March 11, 1989. Seven years later, I changed the name to “In Little Ways” in honor of St. Therese, the Little Flower. I’ve written 574 columns in all. With this one, I say goodbye.
No, I haven’t been fired, and I’m not moving away. However, I am 72. I have some health problems, as does my husband. I want to focus my energy on supporting one another through the challenges of aging.
When I began this project, the other columnists in the paper all had a specific area of expertise. Sister Kathleen Marie Shields was an educator. Bill and Monica Dodds specialized in family issues. Father John Dietzen answered readers’ questions about Catholic doctrine and practice. I was just an ordinary laywoman. All I could offer was an honest account of where I found comfort or confusion as I lived out my conversion.
I had no idea what a profound effect this column would have on my spiritual life. I learned that, if you write regularly, your mind writes even when you’re not at the computer. Whether I’m reading Scripture, visiting with a friend or watching the evening news, some part of my brain is wondering, “What does this teach me about our faith?” Whatever happens in my life or the lives of those close to me, I’m asking, “Where is God in this situation?” I hope this habit of reflection persists when I no longer have to write down an answer.
I could not have asked for a better working situation. My editor, Patrick Downes, is the cream of the crop. I’ve seen many diocesan newspapers over the years. Hawaii Catholic Herald stands tall in comparison, and Patrick is the primary reason why.
I’ve gotten to know many readers through this column. I’m grateful for the personal stories they’ve shared and for their encouragement (or disagreement). The comment I’ve most often heard is, “You talk about the day-to-day struggles of being a Catholic, which we don’t get in church.” Pastors, please take note. It’s true that your life differs from a layperson’s. However, you have family and friends. You’ve had doubts and had to forgive hurts. Tell us how God helped you. It won’t diminish your authority.
I became a Catholic when I was 40. I had been an active member of a Protestant denomination. The rest of my family remained Protestant. My decision troubled them as it did members of the church I previously attended. So, for 32 years, I’ve challenged the Catholic Church to prove to me that my conversion was worth the pain. She has. I love her more now than ever. I love her sacraments, her history, the beauty of her liturgy and the bedrock truth of her theology. I’m so grateful that the Holy Spirit led me to this mansion.
Of course, like any Catholic, I have complaints. I feel the hierarchy doesn’t sufficiently value lay experience and insight. I also feel too few lay people take responsibility for the health of our parishes. I still struggle with the church’s ban on artificial birth control. And I believe Catholic men could be good husbands, fathers and pastors, just as Protestant men are. These matters don’t affect my faith, though. I’m confident that the Holy Spirit guides the church even in areas of conflict.
Thank you, and God bless you, for letting me natter away at you for 27 years. I hope we run into one another at Mass sometime. Kathy.
Kathleen welcomes comments. Send them to Kathleen Choi, 1706 Waianuenue Ave., Hilo 96720, or email: kathchoi@hawaii.rr.com.
