Last week, I happened to be a guest at Ukarimu Retreat Centre in Molo with a team from TVET CDACC on Chaplaincy curriculum. This place reminded me of the 3 S virtues that I have always admired and would enrich any meaningful life on this earth. It made me recall God’s presence with Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden. Meaningful lessons from the actions of humans incorporating the greatness of God in these 3S virtues is a great blessing. These are: Serenity, Simplicity and Solitude.
Serenity. The place is located in a serene environment that has been enhanced by the planting of trees and maximum utilization of streams of water through the pathways. Nature was entrenched to beautify the buildings in the area. When trees and water features are used well, there is both beauty and the healing of nature that comes to our bodies and souls through the appreciation of God’s beautiful creation at its best. Serenity is exemplified here.
Simplicity. The place is developed with the concept of ‘Non-complexity’. The buildings, furniture, accommodation, boarding etc. are all done with this in mind. There is always a temptation to complicate things with the thinking that we are making it better which may not always be the way to go. When we keep our faith, prayers, lifestyles, ministry etc. simple, there is wisdom in enabling us be good stewards of whatever we have for God’s glory. This is the opposite of extravagance and non-realization that God wants us to be a blessing to others as He blesses us.
Solitude. When we entered this place, there were signs of ‘Silence’ almost everywhere. We were told that there were Sisters praying and therefore we needed to maintain silence. To some of us who are sanguine like one of my friends, it was a tall order. He kept on breaking the rules and saying sorry! sorry! sorry! until we left. Solitude may not be in some of us but very useful and necessary to allow us some time to meditate, reflect on our lives and meet God in His presence. Elijah learnt this lesson the hard way.
Serenity, simplicity and solitude are virtues we can incorporate in our daily lives and reap the graces that come along with them. Intentionality in enhancing them in our daily lives is critical. I am happy that these lessons came to me in this way and I believe they have enlightened you too.
Thanks for reading, see you next week. Blessings.
