Orientation

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We have just completed two weeks of our program and orientation continues. We started the week with introductions and input from 3 presenters and also had a session on computers and a very generous invitation to attend a variety of sessions to brush up on skills. The hospitality everywhere and the generosity of staff is amazing. For most staff these offers are above their normal work commitments. The generous spirit goes beyond the Campus (see neighbourhood pic.)

During the week we also travelled to St Mary’s (Marianist) university, where we are invited to improve our fitness. This followed individual fitness assessments - complete with information about individual stats, like calorie requirements, BMI etc ... (Our progress will be tracked and, before the end of our time in SA, there will be a follow-up assessment!) Not only does St Mary’s have impressive aquatic, cardio and other facilities, which are free for our use, we also have access to instructors! So, no excuses!

A highlight of this week was the process around spiritual direction. This started with written information about the twelve or so available directors - all qualified and local. Then we heard a short self-intro from each and, finally, in a social setting, we were able to speak further with individual directors. A few days later, we were invited to select our first and second priorities.

On Friday came DAYOSA - our day in Old San Antonio! We began with a trip to the biggest of the five Missions, the Mission of San Jose. Here we saw a wonderful video of the historical development of these missions and how through the imperial aims of Spain and the co-operation of the Catholic Church, areas such as Texas were settled. This understanding was deepened in the afternoon by our visit to the Institute of Texan Cultures. Here I was captivated by the excellent displays depicting the early inhabitants and their way of life and later the contribution of immigrants, particularly from Europe to the local culture.

In the afternoon back at the PGC the theme continued with Margaritas and classical guitar, accompanying Anita, our flamenco dancer! A culturally rich day indeed!

Another joy this week was dinner with Bob and Cathy Dixon’s friends, Meredith and Jim, who invited Gary W and me (both independently friends of Bob and Cathy) to a delightful meal at their favourite Texan restaurant in downtown SA. (See pic)

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Comments

[Gayle]

Brilliant
Sounds like a great programme Helga. With all aspects of life covered. You are going to be "awesome" when the new together, stronger version of you returns.