Entrusted with the ministry of maintaining all the communities functioning in harmony with the founding spirit, Eugene’s role was not always pleasant, especially when human weaknesses got in the way of the common welfare and the superior would have to correct others. It is here that we see Eugene relying heavily for support on Henri Tempier, his first companion and confidant. These two men were brought close by their common love for God, their passion for wanting to bring this saving love to the most abandoned and their love for the Missionaries. It is clear, that like St Paul in his relationships with some of his fellow Gospel workers, there was a deep bond between Eugene and Tempier that was a source of strength to Eugene in his moments of loneliness as a leader.
… As for you, I have nothing to add to what you know of my sentiments in your regard; I love you as much as myself and my confidence in you is such that it would be impossible for me to hide the least of my thoughts from you. I would think I was committing a theft, a crime of lèse-amitié [ed. a crime committed against friendship] for which I could not forgive myself.
Letter to Henri Tempier, 1 April 1821, EO VI n. 66
“It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.” Nelson Mandela
I remember many years ago, watching and listening to Catherine Doherty speak with members of Madonna House and some of the guests who were visiting and feeling that she was lonely. When asked I was suprised to hear her say yes that there were times when she was lonely. A passing thought – I wonder what it might of looked like if ever those two had come to meet – fireworks perhaps.
I could (and do) learn much from Eugene and from Henri. There are times when leadership just plain and simple is not comfortable. There is no power with leadership, nor is there glory. As I read and ponder this today I remember, I realise, there is much love in my life, God has given me so much and I am loved by others. And if I let it that will and does support me and gives me strength to be and do what God has set before me. It is humbling and sometimes daunting but in all of that there is tremendous life. Even this daily posting, this conversation is love and support for it leads me to look at where I was and where I am and helps me to recognize the many ways that God gifts me, even after a little emotional eruption.
On Saturday I shared that I come to serve those who serve. I think maybe that sort of ties in with what Nelson Mandela was saying for that is not out there in front and there won’t be any glory or kudos there. And oddly enough I am quite comfortable and content with that. I find myself grateful for being able to cry out, grateful for the love and support that God surrounds me with. How shall I love today, how shall I serve today? How will I let this love, this service, be fully a part of my day, a part of who I am, and not just what I appear to be or do?
I need to add that I am so very grateful to be able to come here each day and discover, uncover and share my journey. There is within me a great desire to share both my struggle and the grace that is within – and it is here that I am able to share my love of God and some of the gifts that I am given and it is here that I find a way to daily consciously try to live out my day. I thank you Frank for allowing me to do this and to anyone who might happen to read my comments.