I Counted...

To be precise, I overstayed 100 days today at Collegio San Paolo and I counted every day 1,2,3… and I have not passed through 30 people I know by name of the 200 odd priests living at San Paolo. It is simple; a juxtaposition of Babel. People existing in the cells and moving around the earth. I consider Paolinis determined to have their own way, except the refectory when the door is opened for the poor missionaries to be fed. Look, what I mean: I did not know my next door mate until I met him the other day in the Autobus and found out that he lives in Collegio San Paolo, worst, the room next to me. Is it my fault that I did not know him…?

A Disaster...

In a new place to new people, to a new culture in new language - has been always a blocca for a real communication. Look at what I did this morning. I phoned up to the Parish Priest at Cassine where I was to spend my Christmas. I imagined to have informed him of my programme at his place and I thought I did it well until he asked me a single question and my reply was classical - ‘Grazie’. Unfortunately he was asking me ‘how long will you be able to stay with us’? To which I anticipated as welcoming me to his parish and said ‘Grazie’. Little attention and patience could have saved me from this disaster. In any case, I will be meeting him on 20th December. It is the way of a pilgrim… follow him.

Friends,

I shall soon see you in this part of the world. I just have created it. I am wondering what to say or do with it. I don't really know now where to begin. That's also the case of many. Many a situation we face like this. Not really knowing what to do next. What I should be really doing now. So, having called you, I forgot what to say. May be I shall remember one day to tell you bit by bit why I call in to say...

Isaac Honsan

A paradox of…

I begin the blog with my visit to the Vatican: St. Peter’s Square - Basilica, visit to the tombs of the santi papis, the wonder of the Grand Cistern Chapel (the Vatican Museum) and the magnificent child’s joy to be at the top of the world – the dome (capola).
There are experiences common to everyday life. They come and disappear at the tip of a wing. There are unique indelible hallmarks among nameless experiences. Every move, every turn around the Basilica sounded my ear with crystal sensitivity and a sense of divinity all around. But I was alarmed by the repugnant immodest figures all over (you called it a cultural shock – I don’t believe in one) - disgusting.
But I made my prayer clear. Let me thank my God every day I think of it. It’s worth the making.