Hard to believe we had report cards in grade school that included self control, comprehension, even discipline. The Nuns knew something we didn’t. That so much in life requires that quality even more than spelling and math skills. Take cancer. Patients show up for care often in a fog. There is uncertainty, fear, confusion, even shock. Then they are advised they need to multitask the heck out of their day. Drive to many doctors, hospital visits, procedures,then understand all the jargon and side effects, as you sign on the dotted line. Next go home and put on a calm and smiling face for your fearful family. Your life has been turned side down overnight and even if you are a super senior, you are never prepared for this intrusion.
What shows up is the quality that has supported you through education, parenting, work and even marriage. Be not afraid. Just when you need to dig deep, you will find the discipline to succeed. Thank you Sister Ignatius. You may have been proud of your ability to care for children and grandchildren, to manage your elderly parents’ needs, downsized your living and managed a retirement budget life. This new reality is going to tap the depth of your resilience and fortitude. You will set alarms, put every appointment into your phone calendar, you will find transport, you will lean on friends and family for help. But every single aspect of your journey will require your own personal discipline.

Last weekend many marveled at Princess Kate’s beautiful presence at Trooping the Color in the midst of chemotherapy. Her grace under pressure gave inspiration to many in the world who have similar disease, but far from a similar life. Kate will be able to head home with her children and enjoy more rest and recovery. You, however may be headed to work, daily.
I invite you to celebrate how very strong you are. Many of you are being pushed to what you thought were limits until you actually break through with tremendous power. I will personally give you an “ A” for every effort. Do not take your personal discipline for granted. The Sisters and teachers didn’t. They knew this day was coming and prepared you well.