tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84176884028412651852024-03-08T13:35:31.300-06:00Rockhurst University: Student Reflections on the Year's ThemeEach week, a Rockhurst University student writes a reflection on her or his experience of the University's 2012-2013 theme, which is the core value of "Reflection and Discernment." The reflections are posted in this blog for you to enjoy.
This blog also includes the 2011-2012 reflections on "Finding God in All Things."Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.comBlogger26125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-82773672516104157542012-05-10T09:06:00.002-05:002012-05-22T08:41:15.728-05:00Elizabeth Reid's Post<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">My favorite
image of God comes to me through the words of Fr. Greg Boyle, SJ, in his book <i>Tattoos
on the Heart</i>, where he describes a God who is always too busy loving who we
are to spend any time being disappointed in us. Fr. Boyle reflects that the
sacred place toward which God has been nudging us all our lives is not be
arrived at, but simply discovered. What a freedom it is to know that we are
exactly what God had in mind when God created us—right now, this day!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">As
my time left as a Hawk wanes with each passing exam and campus event, I’ve come
to recognize that one area of my life in which God is present is my mourning.
It’s taken me four years to realize it, but God has been finding me all along,
working through each and every one of my experiences at Rockhurst—the intense
joys, the doubts, the challenges that pushed me further than I ever could have
imagined, the transformations, the frustrations that inspired me to strive for
more, and especially, the beloved friendships. All of these have led me to
exactly where I need to be right now, gracias a Dios. How rich that this is the
life God desires for all of us: to stand on the edge of something that has been
so wonderful, knowing that it fills us with great sadness to leave, while
simultaneously looking ahead with excitement toward each new day, because the
same God who journeyed with us up to this point will continue to accompany us
through every step of the way. ¡Qué rico! God in all things. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 1.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">-<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">Reflection
by Elizabeth Reid<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Elizabeth
Reid is a senior graduating with majors in Spanish and Psychology and minors in
Biology and Theology. She spent her four years as a Hawk involved in Executive
Board of VOICES for JUSTICE, leading a Christian Life Community (CLC), Student
Ambassadors, and Orientation. She moves on from the Nest to serve as a Jesuit
Volunteer in Belize City, Belize, where she will work as a social worker for
Hand in Hand Ministries.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-13365855129145952522012-05-02T08:12:00.001-05:002012-05-02T08:12:16.988-05:00Lynsey Riemann's Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">As a
freshman here at Rockhurst, I have found God in the daily blessings God gives
me, whether it be meeting a new friend or chatting with old friends on the
Quad. God has been in my life to reach out to people who maybe are not
following Him 100%. We are called to be the hands and feet of Jesus, and this
is exactly what my goal is at Rockhurst - for everyone to hear the Good News of
the Gospel. Throughout the year, I have dived into His word and have
newly found my life verse, Romans 2:12 "Do not conform to the pattern of
this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be
able to test and approve what God’s will is —his good, pleasing and perfect
will." God has called us to be like Him, not of this world and its
desires. I believe that if we reach to be more like Him, we will see God in all
aspects of our life each and every day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 1.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Centaur","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Centaur; mso-fareast-font-family: Centaur;">-<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Reflection
by Lynsey Riemann<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
native of O’Fallon, Missouri, Lynsey is a freshman CSD and psychology major
with a minor in theology. She is an active member of a Christian Life
Community (CLC), Student Activities Board (SAB), and Alpha Sigma Alpha sorority
(ASA). <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-50364667292222194782012-04-25T08:15:00.000-05:002012-04-25T08:15:02.480-05:00Frank Kane's Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">Over
the years, through activities at Regis High School, ski racing, service on
the board of Children’s Hospital, and various organizations here on
campus (i.e. Knights of Columbus and Social Mentors), I have retained a
passion for helping others embrace as unique what sets them apart as
individuals. Merely in striving to help them accomplish this, I realize I
have invited them to find God in their differences and handicaps and, thus, <i>in
all things.</i> I have always believed that wherever good can be found,
so too can God, and vice versa. This belief continually compels me to
encounter God’s hand in an area of my life where many overlook it: my
gait. Though the way in which I move is easily my most distinctive feature and
does not come without certain setbacks, it remains something for which I give
daily thanks to God and everyone around me. My gait more often than not allows
me to bring out the best in those I love and in those whom I meet on
campus each day. In bringing out the best in those I love and
encounter, I am hopefully better able find God in those people whom I
often find it more difficult to love and to embrace. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 1.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;">-<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">Reflection by Frank Kane<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">Frank Kane is a sophomore majoring in Political Science and
Philosophy. Hailing from Denver, he is involved in the Knights of
Columbus, Social Mentors, CLC, and the Kansas City branch of the National
Sports Center for the Disabled. He maintains an unending passion for writing
and politics and, before graduating, hopes to jumpstart the University’s
College Democrats student organization. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-75732197571244859302012-04-18T08:27:00.001-05:002012-04-18T08:27:07.500-05:00Meaghan Fanning's Post<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">The poet Hafiz
writes, “Even after all this time, the Sun never says to the Earth, ‘You owe
me.’ Look what happens with a love like that—it lights up the whole
sky.” We hear the phrase “unconditional love” on a regular basis.
How often do we pause to ask what this really means? To love without
conditions, without limits. How could we ever do this? I take
comfort in the fact that knowing and truly believing that we are made in the
likeness of God and that means that we are created to love. It is God’s
joy to love us, and it should be our joy to love one another. I find God
in the pleasantries and drudgeries of everyday life – the life that sometimes
feels like paradise and sometimes feels like we are walking against a hard,
freezing wind. But within that life, every day, is the opportunity to
show people around us how much we love them. Anne Lamott shares her reflections
on simple love and friendship: “All you can do is show up for someone.
But when you do, it can radically change everything. Your there-ness can
be life giving. So you come to keep them company, even when it feels like
the whole world is falling apart, and your being there says for just this
moment, this one tiny piece of the world is okay.” To love is to show
others God, to allow them to feel beloved on this earth. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Meaghan
Fanning is a senior Hawk and loving the last month of Rockhurst! She is
majoring in Nonprofit Leadership Studies and Theology and Religious Studies and
minoring in Philosophy. She was deeply formed by her years spent on the
Executive Board of VOICES for JUSTICE and leading her beloved CLC.
Meaghan is continuing on to get her Masters in Social Work next year. </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"> <a href="" name="_GoBack"></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-80575130740984275102012-04-11T11:41:00.001-05:002012-04-11T11:41:53.712-05:00Charli Bultmann's Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">It is difficult
for me to pinpoint a specific moment in which I have found God, especially
during this past year at Rockhurst. This year has been more of a journey on the
path of creating a beautiful relationship with God for me. I have seen
God while walking to classes when I see the sun shining so brightly and the sky
hovering above me in its rich blue color. I have especially become aware
of God lately in the budding of new life in the trees and flowers all over
campus. But God is not only present in these things; this year, more than
ever, I have seen God in the people in my life. My family, close friends, and
even acquaintances have been compassionate and thoughtful in ways I never
realized before. It is every person around me that makes me see God.
He is in all of us in one way or another. I believe that it is our
experiences with others that truly help us to find God. These experiences
unite us not only as a Rockhurst community but also as a community of God. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Charli
Bultmann is a sophomore Biology major at Rockhurst. Hailing from
Carrollton, Missouri, she is a Student Ambassador, member of Phi Delta Epsilon,
Zeta Tau Alpha, and CLC. At this year’s Easter Vigil, Charli received her
first communion and was confirmed into the Catholic Church. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-47669525351763875542012-03-28T11:29:00.002-05:002012-03-28T11:29:21.804-05:00Katherine Hoffman's Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">I have
found God in an array of expected and unexpected moments that have been knit
together to create a unique tapestry of memories. Sometimes, God appears
in obvious ways like enjoying the beautiful blooming tulips and other gifts of
spring in nature as I walk through campus to class each day. At times, I feel
as though the warm rays of sunshine are simply God’s emanating love flowing
down from above. Other times, I find God in life’s sweetest moments, for
example exchanging a much-needed hug with a good Rockhurst pal after a trying
day. These moments remind me not only of God’s goodness but how if I look for
him I can find him in others’ actions. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">However, finding God doesn’t
always happen in the obvious or sweet instances in life. At times, I have
found God in bitter, unexpected experiences that I don’t understand. For
example, I have uncovered God during service immersion trips in glimpsing the
poverty of the individuals living in the place I was visiting, whether that was
domestically in West Virginia or abroad in Guatemala. In these moments, I have
found it important to hold the experience not trying to change it but accepting
the experience for what it is and acknowledging God’s presence. It requires
trust in Him and openness to his greatness to accept these moments and to add
them to the diverse and beautiful tapestry of life that God is
creating for me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">My hope for each of you is
that you embrace all of the opportunities in your life to find God. May you be
open to the impact those memories can have in your life as pieces knitted into
the tapestry of life that God is creating for and with you. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 2.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Reflection
by Katherine Hoffman<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"><br />
</span><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">A
native of Trenton, Missouri, Katherine graduated from Rockhurst with her
bachelor’s degree in 2012 and is currently in her first-year of the doctorate
in Physical Therapy program. As an undergraduate, Katherine was involved
in CLC as both a leader and member, ASA and APO. She also participated in
two spring break service trips: one to Guatemala and one to West Virginia.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-84563731766331343732012-03-21T07:53:00.001-05:002012-03-21T07:53:24.610-05:00Theresa Kiblinger's Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">If
we do not expect to find God in all things and look for Him in our daily lives,
we can miss wonderful opportunities for help, healing, and happiness. It
seems the most unexpected and unusual times, when I am not outwardly searching
for God, are the times when He becomes the most present in my life.
Recently, I have learned to find God when I stumble off of His path or fall
into sin. It is through my failings that I turn to God even more for
acceptance, grace, and mercy. I have quickly realized that when I begin
straying off of God’s path, He enters right into the mess I have created and
picks me up again. These times of sin and failing, where God once again
renews my life, often leave me in awe of His goodness, His powerfulness, and
His relentless and unconditional love. Even though I may cause God pain
and suffering, He is always there when I call on Him to pick me up, love me
completely, and set me on the right path. Time and time again, that is
when I find God and feel His abundant love. So I encourage you to open
your hearts to the possibilities of finding God in the most unexpected places
whether it is in a smile on the quad, a conversation with a friend, or even in
our sins and failings because God is constantly surrounding each one of us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 1.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">-<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">Reflection by Theresa Kiblinger<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Theresa Kiblinger is a junior from Cape Girardeau, MO. A
nursing student with a minor in French, she has been involved with CLC,
Ambassadors, Alpha Sigma Nu and French Club during her years at Rockhurst.
Theresa spent this past Christmas break serving in Uganda and plans to spend
the summer serving in both Uganda and Kenya. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-89777642266746891152012-03-14T08:11:00.001-05:002012-03-14T08:11:20.903-05:00Josh Goralski's Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">“Nothing
is more practical than finding God, that is, than falling in a love in a quite
absolute, final way. What you are in love with, what seizes your imagination
will affect everything. It will decide what will get you out of bed in the
mornings, what you will do with your evenings, how you spend your weekends,
what you read, who you know, what breaks your heart, and what amazes you with
joy and gratitude. Fall in love, stay in love, and it will decide everything.”
Fr. <span style="background: white;">Pedro Arrupe S.J. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">In
my two years at Rockhurst, I have felt the warmth of God’s presence and love in
countless ways. I felt this as I entered Rockhurst with our entire class giving
up a few hours to do service before embarking on our journey here.
Additionally, I have continued to find God and fall in love with him through
the retreats offered by Campus Ministry, conversations with friends, and
speakers on campus like Fr. Boyle. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">When
I traveled to Haiti with a group of Rockhurst students over winter break, I
experienced falling in love with God once again. I not only found God in the
people we met, but I found God in each person in our group. I remember
constantly thinking over the week our group was truly in love with helping to
empower others. The group had agreed to take on a multi-year project to help
the people of Duchity, Haiti. I think to myself that truly we all felt the love
of God leading us to go on this trip. Throughout the whole trip, I just felt
like God was there, blessing us with safe travels, productive meetings,
memorable experiences that will not soon be forgotten, good weather and great
conservation. There is something special when you are with a group of people
that are called by a common love and are all on the journey to find God. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">So, I encourage you in the spirit of Pedro Arrupe to let yourself
fall in love with God. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 1.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">-<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">Reflection by Josh Goralski<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 1.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-indent: -.25in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Josh
Goralski is a Sophomore from Naperville, IL studying Nonprofit Leadership
Studies and Accounting and trying to fit in something with Economics. He is
involved in with Student Senate, various Campus Ministry Activities, Desk
Manager in Corcoran, and involved with the Social Entrepreneurship
Initiative. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-22031658348717440292012-02-29T08:24:00.001-06:002012-02-29T08:24:15.440-06:00Christiana Troupe's Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">In the past few
months, God has been teaching me how to find Him in my weakness. Weakness. Not
exactly a word with a positive connotation, but let me explain. My entire life,
I have found it incredibly difficult to accept the idea that God loves me APART
from what I do for Him, that His love is completely free. For this reason, I
have only ever known striving – striving to earn God’s love and approval that I
already have. No matter how irrational, I’ve operated from the belief that if I
could perform well enough, I could somehow earn what I knew I could never
deserve. And I would continually fall flat on my face, feeling ever more
distant from Him with each stride to “be enough.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">A
few months ago, I was confronted with the reality that all along I had been
striving to do instead of be. What I had lost sight of is that “Jesus
lived the life we could not live and died the death we should have died.” Not
only do I not have to earn His love, but I couldn’t even if I wanted to - HE
has made me worthy. Because I accept this truth, He calls me His daughter and
that is who I am, regardless of whether I feel it. It is TRUTH.<a href="" name="_GoBack"></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Since
then, God has been taking me on a journey of learning how to stop the striving
and just receive His free love. I have been learning to live out of the truth
of who He says that I am, to be loosed of unnecessary expectations. I am being
set free to love Him, not as a burden, but as a joy. I am finally free to delight
in my Father as He delights over me. I am enough solely because He loves me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 1.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;">-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Reflection
by Christiana Troupe<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hailing
from Lees Summit, Christiana Troupe is a health nut in her junior year at
Rockhurst pursuing a degree in finance and economics. In her college career,
she has served as an ambassador, resident assistant, orientation leader, social
mentor, and frosh get-a-way leader. In her future career, she has a heart to
one day bring justice to victims of human trafficking and participate in global
development initiatives. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-37203896416962331592012-02-22T13:15:00.002-06:002012-02-22T13:15:49.006-06:00Veronica Immethun's Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">At
first, the task of writing an entry for this seemed daunting. To this day, I
still struggle with the concept of God and even believing in God (scandalous, I
know). As I got to thinking, I found that this is not about discussing my
devotedness to everything God and Christian; it’s about finding the small
things on campus that bring me, and other students, peace of mind and
heart. Location is the first thing that came to mind. From on campus,
Rockhurst feels safe and secluded (for me at least). If you were dropped from
the sky onto campus, you would not know that you were in the middle of the
city. But, Rockhurst is a haven – safe and welcoming. That definitely brings me
peace. I then started to think about the people. Being a small college lends to
this, but everyone makes things personal. The people here take their time to
listen, understand, and help those around them, whether or not they are a
student; they genuinely care about others. I found this comforting as well. So
even though I am not the firmest of believers, I believe God can be found
everywhere at Rockhurst through the peace of mind and kindness this university
provides. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="line-height: 115%; margin-left: 1.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">-<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reflection by Veronica Immethun<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Veronica
Immethun, a native “Kansas City-an”, is a junior transfer student. She is
majoring in Communication Sciences and Disorders and hopes to become a
Speech-Language Pathologist. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-47987336346523631412012-02-15T13:35:00.001-06:002012-02-15T13:35:07.593-06:00John Rios' Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">Before
coming to Rockhurst, I had no concept of the Jesuit core values or even what a
Jesuit school was for that matter. Upon stepping on campus, something felt
different. I didn’t know how to explain it or even how to describe it. However,
in my two and a half years here I know what makes Rockhurst so distinct! It is
the people. Although it is a simple and short answer, this is also where I find
God at Rockhurst University. He is present in the genuine caring relationships
that exist between students and staff alike. He is visible to me when Jane in
the Pub greets me with a smile, when Bill Kriege asks me how I’m doing, or when
I see Fr. Curran spending time with students in the cafe. Although these things
are small and simple, they remind of why I came here and serve as a constant
reminder that God is present here at Rockhurst. Like my response, I like to
keep things simple. For, one it eliminates confusion, plus it makes it harder
for the little stuff like these simple actions to go unnoticed. So maybe this
is not how you find God - that is up for you to decide as this is defined by
each individual. These reflections just serve as reminders that He is always
present in every situation in different ways, and it is your job to find Him. I
wish you good luck on your search!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1.75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">Reflection by John Rios<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif;">John Rios is a junior from Dallas, Texas. He is majoring in
Leadership Studies and Psychology and plans to pursue a graduate degree in High
Education. He is a Resident Assistant, Member of the Social Mentor Steering
Committee, Ambassador, and Vice President of Social Affairs in Alpha Delta
Gamma.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-9582724644829066982012-02-08T08:57:00.002-06:002012-02-08T08:57:05.424-06:00Colleen Smyth's Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Before you pass
over this message, I invite you to take a second to just stop. Catch your
breath. Let you mind rest for a second. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">
“God is love and love is God.” 1 John 4:8. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">In order for me
to find God in all things, I remember that I must find LOVE in all things. When
I think about love, I am brought back to Pedro Arrupe, SJ’s poem that begins,
“Nothing is more practical than finding God, that is, than falling in love in a
quite absolute and final way.” I believe that college is the time to discover
what we are in love with from causes like Relay for Life or being more “green”
to being in love with subjects like Western Civilization or Marketing to being
in love with others through service or in community. However, Rockhurst is not
just about learning what we are in love with but how to let that love shape our
lives. As Arrupe says, “It will decide what will get you up in the morning…how
you spend your weekends…what amazes you with joy and gratitude.” Who
doesn’t want a life filled with love, a love that Arrupe says will even “decide
what breaks your heart”? One thing that most breaks my heart is knowing
that there are people on campus who doubt that they are loved or have trouble
recognizing that love. In being called to act as women and men for and with
others, not only do we, as a Rockhurst community, have the responsibility
to find His love in all things, but more importantly, we need to be committed
to share that love. I am so blessed to call myself a Rockhurst student striving
to live a life that beats for others in good times and in challenging
times. I pray that we always remember, “fall in love, stay in love, and
it will decide everything.“ By doing this, we will have found God in
everything. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: 1.75in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Reflection
by Colleen Smyth<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Colleen Smyth is a
sophomore from St. Louis, MO. She hopes major in an area of business and minor
in Non-Profit Studies (maybe Theology too, if she can fit it in). Colleen is
the service chair of VOICES for Justice, an active member in both Alpha Sigma
Alpha and CLC, and also serves as an Ambassador.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-55233663746921575712012-02-01T07:37:00.000-06:002012-02-01T07:37:32.648-06:00Rodolfo Gauto-Mariotti's Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Every athlete at
Rockhurst has sacrificed years of his or her life to training. They have worked
on technique, conditioning, strategy and mental strength in order to excel and
be selected for a position on a college team. This journey can be quite solitary,
but when athletes join their new teams they become part of something so great
that they will cherish for the rest of their lives. The team becomes their new
family and with them they live and share every experience college has to offer.
A tough win becomes an unforgettable moment when you can celebrate it with
those who truly understand how much effort was put forth. A bad day is not the
end of the world when you have teammates to count on to step in and get the job
done for you. Teammates make long van rides and morning workouts bearable and
even enjoyable. We might not know it or acknowledge it, but we find God
everyday in the people who run next to us, those who wear the same uniform as
us, and face our same opponents. We find God in the opportunity to get an
education, travel to different cities and meet new people while playing the
sport we love. Being a student athlete is a true privilege, an opportunity to
grow and take care of the whole person. I did not know it at the time, but from
the moment I became part of the Rockhurst Tennis team, I received a gift so
great, it can only come from God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt; text-indent: -0.25in;">- Reflection
by Rodolfo Gauto-Mariotti</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">Rodolfo
Gauto-Mariotti is a junior from Asuncion, Paraguay. He is majoring in Economics
and Marketing and is a student athlete on the men’s tennis team.</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-84981543212011619122012-01-27T08:26:00.002-06:002012-01-27T08:26:50.981-06:00Byron Gilman's Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Peace!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Be
Still!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Pause,
if only briefly, from the world around you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Be
Awake! You stand on holy ground.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Breathe
in. That air in your lungs?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">It
is the Breath of God, <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">the
same God who breathed His last,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">of
the same air, on the same earth,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">in
the same world where you stand now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">And
God blessed the world then,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">just
as He did at Creation,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">just
as He does today.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">And
so the air you breathe,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">the
ground and all its bugs,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">the
squirrels in the trees,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">the
shoes on your feet,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">the
wool in your sweater,<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">every
last hair on your head-<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">is
just as touched by the presence of God.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Pause,
if only briefly, from the world around you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Peace!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Be
Still!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 1.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Reflection
by Byron Gilman<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt;">Byron Gilman is an English and Theology undergrad from Omaha,
Nebraska. Byron is a member of Alpha Sigma Nu, Sigma Tau Delta, and Theta
Alpha Kappa. He plans to graduate this semester and hopes to pursue a
Masters in English.</span></i><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-89110822323026021242011-12-01T08:09:00.001-06:002011-12-01T08:09:26.149-06:00Leandra Stuckey's Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">The
spirit of God is in the wind, blowing where it pleases, and it chooses to blow
around Rockhurst. As I walk to class and see the leaves falling gently from the
trees guided by the wind, I know God is there. He is everywhere around me. In
the simplest action of breathing in the chilly fall air, He is there giving me
the breath to continue living. He is there in the breeze that caresses my face
when I step outside of Sedgewick. I don’t have to witness a miracle to know the
goodness of God. When I was walking around campus one day, I noticed a leaf
being blown across my path. It didn’t stay in front of me for more than a few
seconds before the wind picked it up and carried it a little farther from me.
This kept happening until the leaf landed on one of the cement benches. Again
it didn’t stay there for long because another gust of wind came and blew it up
again. The leaf had no control over where it was blown, it was determined by
the wind. The same is true for me. The wind has led me to Rockhurst for a reason.
This is where I will let the spirit guide me in my adventures here.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Good luck on finals!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 1.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reflection by Leandra Stuckey<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Leandra Stuckey, a junior transfer
student, is double majoring in Political Science and Exercise and Sports
Science. She is a member of Alpha Phi Omega, the University’s service
fraternity, and is a cheerleader. Go Hawks!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-14286103056110316052011-11-15T10:11:00.003-06:002011-11-15T10:11:46.358-06:00Gabe Jones' Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Finding
perfection within imperfection can sometimes be a challenging task. As students, the imperfection often becomes
burdensome and can be nearly overwhelming.
The tough classes, our problems with friends or family, or even running
out of points in the Cafe remind us that the world is rarely a perfect
place. Yet, when we try to find God in
all things we try to do just that: find some measure of perfection in an otherwise
fallen world. That perfection could be a
beautiful flower growing through the sidewalk, a perfect sunset, or even a
rainy day. But all the disorder and
disappointment in our lives can make finding God a very difficult
objective. I often remind myself of the
phrase “every cloud has a silver lining.”
For me, this captures the essence of finding God in all things. No matter the situation, good or bad, I try
to remind myself that God is here and in control. When things go well, I find God by being
thankful for what He has given me; when things are not so great, I try to find
that “silver lining” that is God and thank Him for even the smallest
graces. Regardless of how things are
going, God has a plan and will not let the imperfections completely “cloud” our
search for His perfection. God is there:
we just have to be courageous enough to look through the fog and find Him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 1.75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reflection by Gabe Jones<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">Gabe Jones is currently an MBA student and members
of the men’s basketball team. He
graduated in May 2011 with a BA in Political Science and Economics and minors
in business administration and philosophy.
During his undergraduate years, Gabe was a member of Alpha Delta Gamma,
Hawks for Life and the Social Mentors Steering Committee.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-71971449498152760232011-11-15T10:11:00.001-06:002011-11-15T10:11:08.711-06:00Danny Duggan's Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 14pt;">Although
seemingly simple, the way in which I have found God so far this year becomes a
complex experience for which I am forever grateful. With help and inspiration
from those around me, I have truly </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">begun to cherish the rising and setting of the sun and the beauty of this
event on as many occasions as I can. Although I find myself having some late
nights of studying, there are those special days when<span style="color: #95154f;"> </span>I am able to be
disciplined enough, wake up from my sleep and have an early to start to my day
by jogging around campus. The peace that encompasses the campus at this time is
the same that’s in my heart realizing the good works I have been able to
accomplish at this University and those I will be challenged to in the future.
As the sun is rising from the east, I thoughtlessly direct my attention towards
the Town Houses feeling a quick chill of happiness thinking of all the memories
my friends and I have created throughout this school year. Shifting my focus to
see Corcoran Hall, as I continue my run, I appreciate the moments of growth I
experienced while living there my first year here and in campus life this year
as well. The silence of Rockhurst is awakened as the sun rises,
promising a day of beauty and continual serenity. I find God when I
walk through the quad as I stop to peer into the
trees to experience the full-fledged sun shining through reminding me He is
staying by my side each day. The hustle and bustle of the academic and social
life is always in full gear only to slow down as the sun begins to drop off to
into the west. The Bell Tower and pergola offer a place for my friends and I to
rest our heads as the sky begins to turn into a cotton-candy-looking clouded
swirl of beauty and the sun quickly displays
its splendor. I can’t help but see the sun splashing off of the academic
buildings allowing Him to remind me of my appreciation for the life of
college-ruled notebooks, folders, binders and the other necessities<span style="color: #95154f;"> </span>surrounding the
classroom. With the rising and the setting of the sun, I am graced with the feeling
of gratitude for this environment of learning, leadership and service<span style="color: #95154f;">,</span> and most importantly
for each person that the Son has warmed the heart of and allowed to change my life, without fail, each and every day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 57.75pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Reflection
by Danny Duggan<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 39.75pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Danny,
a Rockhurst sophomore, is a proud resident of St. Louis, a Rockhurst Student
Ambassador and a CLC coordinator hoping to enjoy each moment at Rockhurst until
he graduates!<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-66789220527751782912011-11-02T13:22:00.003-05:002011-11-02T13:22:53.186-05:00Samantha Gormley's Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">How
do I find God? Well, that’s the question of the hour, isn’t it?
After much consideration and thought, I’ve come to realize that my encounters
with God come not so much from me searching for Him, but rather His
determination to pursue me. Whether these experiences arise from a friend
who wants to talk at the most inopportune time and ends up saying some of the
most beautiful and loving things I could have needed to hear at that moment, or
simply a perfect wind that flows through the Quad when my frustrations are
running high, it is the moments I have no control over that I find God.
It is the moments I delight in the wonders around me and realize how thoroughly
and completely my Creator has cared and provided for me. God is in the
professor that works with me to create a service learning option. God is
in the Sodexo employee who offers me my much appreciated chicken nuggets with a
smile, even when the hours are long. God is in the perfect song that
comes on the radio or in the Pub. He is in the challenges that bring out
the best in me, even when it is most difficult, but rewarding, creating me anew
and creating me as I was meant to be. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> - </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Reflection by Samantha Gormley<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Samantha Gormley is a junior Psychology
major from Bartlesville, Oklahoma. She is involved with CLC, Social
Mentors, RAKERS, the Honors Program, Greek Life, and serves as an Orientation
Coordinator and a Eucharistic Minister. Her big goal for the near future
is to study abroad, but she says, “We’ll see where God takes me.”</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
<o:p></o:p></span></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-12623339829733678852011-10-26T08:32:00.001-05:002011-10-26T08:32:06.343-05:00Steven Bokel's Reflection<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="apple-style-span"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">I
oftentimes find myself reciting the words of Father Kolvenbach, SJ, “. . . to</span></span><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;"> <span class="apple-style-span">discern what is really
happening in your life and in the lives of</span> <span class="apple-style-span">others,
to find God there and to discover where he is calling you.”</span> <span class="apple-style-span">Where is God and how does he fit into the equation of my
life? Making</span> <span class="apple-style-span">the decision to study abroad
was not one made lightly. In choosing to leave, I</span> <span class="apple-style-span">had to sacrifice many of the things I loved most in this
life and,</span> <span class="apple-style-span">what's worse, I was asking my
friends and family to do the same. Finding</span> <span class="apple-style-span">God
has not always been easy but there have been key moments in life</span> <span class="apple-style-span">where I have felt God's call to action, this semester
abroad has certainly been one of</span> <span class="apple-style-span">them. I
have found God in the splendor of Florence, the antiquity of</span> <span class="apple-style-span">Rome, and the faith of Warsaw. Most importantly, I have
found God in the</span> <span class="apple-style-span">generosity of the people I
encounter and all those back how who won't</span> <span class="apple-style-span">let
me waste my time here. In my travels, I have learned that all people,</span> <span class="apple-style-span">not just Americans or Europeans, but <i>all</i> people
are basically good. We</span> <span class="apple-style-span">all have that urge
to help someone in need- to be empathetic. We are all</span> <span class="apple-style-span">the children of God. I have found God in our
willingness to give, to</span> <span class="apple-style-span">help, and have
faith that the light will overcome the darkness.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: .75in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri;"><span>-<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt;">Reflection
by Steven Bokel<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;">Steven Bokel is a junior currently studying at The John Felice
Rome Center in Rome, Italy. He is a Business Accounting and Philosophy major
and a member of the Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity, Delta Sigma Pi (business
fraternity) and Christian Life Community (CLC). <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-19394175219851599512011-10-19T16:06:00.001-05:002011-10-19T16:06:28.352-05:00Hero Balani's Reflection<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt;">One day, I look outside the window from the Xavier Loyola Residence Hall. There is silence all around and my eyes rest upon a pile of leaves that had fallen from the trees. They were stationary, dry, dead, cold: then suddenly, they start moving! Twisting and twirling as if dancing on the ground in joy that they were alive. I then took a deep breath, closed my eyes, and felt God’s magnificent presence there and then, all around me. Through his powerful forces: he keeps the entire universe moving, he keeps the earth spinning day to day, he brings new life to each and every one of us through his guiding hand. I see God in the motions of the daily life at Rockhurst. In the students that go from class to class, in the professors that instruct with vigor and confidence, in the administrators that move from meeting to meeting ensuring the success of Rockhurst, in the Sodexo staff who rush to give students their meals, in the hands of students who provide service (Joplin Retreat) and even from the simplest motion in the environment such as the little squirrels that run across the commons: God is present! Give it some thought and reflect on it. What makes you wake up in the mornings and get out of bed and do what you do best in your day? He is there. He is moving all of us, and you can feel him and will find him in all things around you, even in your daily activities. Just stop for a minute, close your eyes and take a deep breath, you’ll see. </span><span style="color: black;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">-<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt;">Reflection by Hero Balani</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif';">Hero Balani is an International Transfer Student from Belize City, Belize in Central America. He has just joined the Rockhurst family and is majoring in International Business at the Helzberg School of Management (Rockhurst). Hero is currently working for the Rockhurst Fund as well as Sodexo. He is also a member of P.E.E.R.S, a prospective member of Delta Sigma Pi (the Business Fraternity) and is looking into further student leadership organizations in his semesters to come at Rockhurst. This will be his first winter here in Kansas City, Missouri.</span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-14271562085722734482011-10-05T11:00:00.000-05:002011-10-07T14:53:14.735-05:00Emily Mazzoni's Reflection<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I find God in watching others experience small joys that make Rockhurst the unique University that it is. I see the joy people get from feeling the mist of the fountains, squishing the warm sand between their toes during a game of sand volleyball, and hearing Jane yell out the newest twister order. People smile as they walk by the seemingly random blue cow and they laugh as they are engulfed in the bubbles of the foam dance party. It is in watching people during these instances - some daily, others rarer – that I see God. All of these events turn our ordinary moments into an extraordinary experience. It is through the smiles and laughter of my fellow students, the faculty, and the staff that I encounter God here at Rockhurst, for which I am truly blessed. In such simple joy there is such great power. God gives us the opportunity to be joyful each day, and I constantly witness the members of the Rockhurst community expressing that joy which reminds me that God is present in all things.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> -<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Reflection by Emily Mazzoni</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;">Emily Mazzoni, a St. Louis native, is in her second year at Rockhurst University. She is majoring in Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Mathematics, and Spanish. Additionally, Emily is an R.A., VP of Student Senate, Orientation Leader, Social Mentor, SI for Spanish, Ambassador, P.E.E.R.S. Executive member, a member of CLC and involved with numerous other clubs and activities on campus [and, as she says, “No, I never sleep :)” ].</span></i><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-2367803177795963352011-09-28T11:00:00.000-05:002011-09-29T13:14:21.943-05:00Alan Ratermann's Reflection<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">I like to relate my search for God in all things to a seek-and-find puzzle. I know He is in my life and experiences, but at times I need to look harder or look at the puzzle in a different way. Sometimes I may not find the words I am looking for in the order I had originally planned; similarly, I may not discover things about God and myself until I give up my preconceived plans. Reflecting on the recent Frosh Get-A-Way, I went in looking for God with a specific plan of action. I would look for Him in the people I talked to and in my own thoughts. Well, needless to say that isn’t how it worked. Although I found God in talking to people, I also saw Him in their actions and encouragement towards one another. I thought I knew what I needed. During the retreat weekend, I felt as if God was searching for me, not the other way around. The realization that He wants to be a part of my life is an incredible revelation. Being open to experiencing God in all aspects of life reminds me to never let my own plans or ideas get in the way of knowing God. </span></div><div class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 1.25in; mso-add-space: auto; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">- </span></span>Reflection by Alan Ratermann</span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><i><span style="color: black; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 10pt;">Alan Ratermann is a freshman from St. Louis, MO and is currently undecided in his major. He is involved on campus with Rockstars, Student Senate, Running Club, and CLC. </span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-87272109366057567242011-09-21T11:00:00.000-05:002011-09-29T13:13:47.396-05:00Joe Evans' Reflection<span serif??,?serif?;color:black?="" style="color: black; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">I have been very fortunate during my time at Rockhurst to participate in two different spring break service trips. These service trips allowed me to encounter God sometimes in ways that I typically would not expect. During these experiences I have found God in both the people I served and also those who I served with. By allowing myself to be fully present with the people I served felt I was able to find God. I often encountered God in their positive outlook on life and in their sense of humor, despite their struggles. Although sometimes it seems that the people I served were very different from me, I have found that despite these differences you probably share more similarities than you think. It’s these commonalities that allowed me to open up to them and allowed me to see God in them. Returning from these trips has also made me realize that God is not just found in service in a place far from home, but can also be found right in our own backyards. Although we can often get caught up in our own problems in our lives, I have realized that by taking the time to serve others can open your heart and mind to God.</span><br />
<div style="margin-left: 1.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">- </span>Reflection by Joe Evans</span></span></div><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span></span><br />
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><span serif??,?serif??="" style="color: black; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">Joe Evans is a senior from Omaha, Nebraska majoring in Spanish. He is an active member of a CLC, has participated in domestic and international service trips, and has cut, split and stacked plenty of firewood on several Lumberjack Service retreats.</span></i>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-29611626296214573652011-09-14T11:00:00.000-05:002011-10-07T14:47:36.370-05:00Amanda Schumacher's Reflection<div class="MsoPlainText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I have felt God at Rockhurst in the people that surround me day in and day out because they exemplify His presence to me. I think God shines through the faculty and staff as they use their gifts and talents to inspire and lead students. He is in the athletes, as they pursue excellence on the field and on the court. God makes himself known to me through my residents and their joy, energy and generosity to each other and our floor. He is there in the Sodexo employees and the maintenance and custodial staff as they willingly and graciously perform their jobs with respect, discipline, and enthusiasm. He is in all students as they encourage one another and take on the challenge of becoming a better version of themselves to discover their passions and make their contribution in the world. God is truly present at Rockhurst University and I consider myself incredibly blessed to be a part of such an enriching place. It is through the people of this community and their compassion and charity that I have seen the face of God and learned more about my faith, the world and myself.</span></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt 0.5in; text-indent: 0.5in;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">- Reflection by Amanda Schumacher</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<i><span style="color: black; font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: x-small;">Amanda Schumacher is a sophomore pre-med student majoring in Biochemistry and Spanish. Amanda is an Ambassador, Resident Assistant, member of ASA and CLC, and a Frosh Get A-Way retreat leader. </span></i></div>
Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8417688402841265185.post-43681368078209948792011-09-07T11:00:00.000-05:002011-09-29T13:12:09.314-05:00Anna Alfonsin's Reflection<div class="MsoPlainText" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">In a perfect world, finding God in all things would be a simple task every day. I grew up in a family that encouraged finding God in everything around us. As I grew older I began to hear the question, “If God is everywhere then why is there tragedy in our world?” Tragedy is an obstacle that can make our search for God a little more difficult, but with our faith, we can definitely overcome this obstacle. I have seen, especially in the past few years that our community response to tragedy is God reaching out to those in need. Natural disasters, family disputes or tragedies, and war have all plagued our world. I am always so inspired by the aid sent to victims and the support that can arise from our society today. It is in those moments that I have seen my favorite image of God in all things. One of my favorite quotes that I’ve learned to use in times of crisis is, “If God brings you to it, God will bring you through it.” He’s always around, but sometimes we may have to look past what is right in front of us in order to find Him. </span><br />
<div style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;">- Reflection by Anna Alfonsin</span></div><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><br />
<span style="color: black;"></span></span><br />
<i><span style="color: black; font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;">Anna Alfonsin is a senior Nursing major from Overland Park, KS. She is a member of the women’s soccer team and CLC. </span></i></div>Cindyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08523778151917287995noreply@blogger.com0