Faithful

Today is the feast of our religious congregation. There is an air of celebration, as two Sisters in my community celebrate their 60th anniversary of religious profession, while two others celebrate their silver anniversary. As the priest said in his homily, it is a counter-testimony to a society that frowns on long-term commitments.
Having been a professed Sister for nineteen years, I can say that I admire these Sisters for staying on. Living in a community with people whom you have not chosen to be with is not easy. In our Constitutions and in the Letters of our Foundress, Mother Mazzarello, we read beautiful expressions such us "give the best to your Sisters" or "who loves Jesus agrees with everybody". But in concrete everyday life, it is not easy. I think that at least once in our life we have been tempted to just go away to a place where "I will be more appreciated and respected".
So why do people stay, why do I stay?
Is it just a habit that is difficult to break?
Or is it the fear of the unknown that prevents me leaving?
Both reasons are true, yet, deep in my heart I know that the reason why I stay is beyond me.
So today I celebrate "fidelity", not mine but God's.
Yes, in the story of my life, in the life stories of many religious men and women, the real "faithful one" is God. His fidelity is sure, creative, forgiving, hopeful, life-giving.
My favorite name for God is "Everyday compassion", my second favorite name for God is "the faithful one". He calls me, yes, imperfect, inconstant, weak me. He calls me everyday to give Him my hand and allow Him to lead me in the dance of life. At times I let go of His hands and go my own way, and then I feel insecure and alone. But maybe that is also part of the dance. God is such a faithful partner that He waits for me at the right time and with the right step.
I am never alone, God is a faithful dancing partner.