A personal question: What is one of the most memorable events in your life?

The question was asked first on LinkedIn where other answers can be found. My answer was:

“Insightful question.

Of the many memorable events in my life, including many quite similar to those already mentioned, the one that strikes me at the moment is especially personal and memorable.

At the time I was a successful lawyer, father of two wonderful children, married to my wife for almost 20 years, heavily involved with my community, lacked really nothing --- except there was a sense of being alone at the heart of me. I went on a silent 8-day retreat at a Jesuit Spirituality Center at Grand Coteau, Louisiana.

My objective was to meet my loneliness head on by deliberately putting myself in a lonely spot where I was allowed only to speak one hour a day to my spiritual director. She was a nun, named Ruth. I felt extremely out of place. Thought everyone else seemed so holy, but I wasn't there by far.

At some point during our talks, Ruth asked me simply: "Have you surrendered yet?" My response was glib: "I'm from Texas. We remember the Alamo. We never surrender."

That night I had "the dream." The message was clear: In the deepest part of me, I was not alone. I've never felt lonely again. If you're interested in knowing more about what the dream revealed, contact me. It's not scary. It's just that it's personal and I prefer to tell about it one to one.”

What do you think?

Please include your comment here or contact me to discuss.

Thanks.

John Darrouzet