It is true. All prisoners, myself included, constantly wait to be let go. I decided then and there that my captivity would not be merely a time of resignation but a turning point in my life. I decided I would not wait. I would live the present moment and fill it with love. For if I wait, the things I wait for will never happen. The only thing that I can be sure of is that I am going to die.
No, I will not spend time waiting. I will live the present moment and fill it with love.
When the Communists put me in the hold of the boat, the Hai-Phong, along with 1500 other prisoners and moved us to the North, I said to myself, “Here is my cathedral, here are the people God has given me to care for, here is my mission: to ensure the presence of God among these, my despairing, miserable brothers. It is God’s will that I am here. I accept his will”. And from that minute onwards, a new peace filled my heart and stayed with me for thirteen years.
The words of Bishop John Walsh, who had been imprisoned for 12 years in Communist China, Waiting in captivity.
This is extraordinary. So beautiful and inspiring. So moving. Thank you for sharing this. : )))
You are welcome, Anne. Have you heard of this fellow?
No, so thank you for introducing me! : ))
You are most welcome.
There are times when I experience something redemptively impactive, and I find myself aware of the lack of words in the moment, to respond. This is one of those times, and this is one of those impactive moments, reading the quote from Bishop John Walsh. And your words are good, flowing with Walsh’s. Really good. T
Hi T. No words can even explain when the Spirit of Love takes over, just like you said. Lucky you for having such an experience. Blessings.
An inspiring quote. But I don’t see myself in them photos. 🙂
Bels,do you aspire to be a prisoner to be in the picture? or this comment is for someone else? 😛
Oh no! I had problems earlier commenting on your blog. I was there a moment ago but it seems I have to log on before I could post a comment. I am logged on. Can you check the comment settings?
Yup, you must log in before you comment. You’re in.
Such an inner strength – very inspirational!
He is indeed and first time I’ve heard of him. When I read it, I just have to post it so that i have record of his existence. Thank you, Joanne.
Thank you…