In Dr. Seuss’s book, The Lorax, the main character is
advised that, “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is
going to get better. It’s not.” The story itself is a cautionary tale against
greed and selfishness, and an invitation to care for all of creation. It is
this care of creation that is exactly what Sr. Carlotta is doing here at the
Monastery of St. Gertrude.
A bird's eye view of Sr. Carlotta's handiwork |
No matter what time of the year it is, Carlotta cares for
many examples of creation in the monastery and on the grounds. At this time,
her day begins early with shoveling and snow blowing the many paths and
driveways around the Monastery. In other seasons, Carlotta will spend many
hours tending to the gardens and the bounty that is produced. Throughout the
year, she also takes part in maintaining and assisting with the numerous
computers and televisions, and has also taken on the responsibility of creating
the Nature’s Gifts products. Originally, Carlotta assisted Sr. Theresa Dvorak
with the Nature’s Gifts line and now is the primary producer of the items that
are available in the gift shop. Carlotta’s work with Nature’s Gifts has become
her favorite job, keeping her busy all year long with production and teaching
classes and retreats. Carlotta has reconnected with her love of the Earth in
many ways here, and even if it means pulling a few (or a lot of) weeds, her
effort is beneficial to us all.
Sr. Carlotta hard at work making more Healing Salve |
While Carlotta has gained many things by being here at the
Monastery of St. Gertrude, she has found it difficult to be away from her
family. Nevertheless, the impact that she has on the community and guests is
undeniable, and people have returned speaking of the difference she had made.
Indeed, even the smallest gesture has had enormous influence, and I can
certainly attest to this. One day while wandering the hill behind the Monastery
building, Carlotta came across me and showed me some of her paths. Later she
would speak of her time on the hill as renewing, and I believe that is what I
experienced with her that day: a renewal from a shared appreciation of the
splendor of creation.