Relationships at SJU will last a lifetime
This is the opinion of Dick Howard, SJU '72.
“Try to understand men. If you understand each other you will be kind to each other. Knowing a man well never leads to hate and almost always leads to love.” – John Steinbeck
John Steinbeck had it right. Living in community with men (or women) is a valuable experience. I look back at my time at SJU as influential for my life in developing the deep friendships with my Johnnie and Bennie (I married one) friends. We know each other well. We have supported each other in the ups and downs of life.
This all begins with engagement. Really being present to each other in the sense of the Benedictine Value of “Listening with the ear of our heart.” It takes discipline to be aware of others, of the environment around us and truly connecting in a personal, face to face way with others. That is just the start. Continuous connection will build the friendships to sustain us in life. While digital connections are helpful, my belief is they cannot substitute for real, in-person relationships. This happens at CSB+SJU in a variety of forms in living spaces, events, study groups, etc. These friendships lead eventually to creating community.
My communities include the SJU Alumni Benedictine Way cohorts that have helped me grow as a person. Contact me at dick.howard1950@gmail.com to learn more. My advice? Unplug, build some powerful relationships at CSB/SJU, carry them into the world as sustainable communities. Start now. It will last a lifetime.