by Nadia Ramoutar MMM Communications Coordinator                    Ireland          28.05.2025

It is funny how sometimes we do something and have no idea the outcome our actions will have in future. I know that we don’t do something or take action sometimes because we are concerned about the unknown and feel fear. We sometimes don’t take action because we avoid venturing into the ambiguity of something new.

I am here to propose that we take on another perspective and realise that new actions can result in unexpected joy.

A few years ago, we were looking at ideas for our MMM Communication Department to raise money for the missions and to build more community. While going through old MMM Magazines, Sr Sheila and I read about the events that the Sisters used to host for these reasons. We were inspired to host a Christmas Craft Fair in Drogheda. There were a few people who thought it was a dreadful idea but they had the decency to tell us afterwards!

So, we had our Christmas Craft Fair and it was a big success. The hall was buzzing with activity, and it felt festive and fun. We invited the local children’s choir. They came and we loved having them here on the big stage in the auditorium. We also got to meet a lot of local crafters, artists and small business people who had stalls at the event.

Now, this year we got really brave (there are other words for it) and we added a Festival in May focused on Flowers, Food and Fun. Many of our Christmas vendors came and our lovely children’s choir. Speaking with the man in charge of the choir, Ken, he told me how much coming to the convent over the years has meant to the children in the choir. It is wonderful to have them here and witness them getting taller and more confident too.

This time, when the choirs’ sound equipment was being set up, I noticed something I had not realised before. The young man in charge of the sound is blind. He was busy getting things organised and ready, using a white stick. Honestly, I had been so preoccupied before, I had not noticed this. I stopped in my tracks and marvelled at his expertise with all the electronic equipment that made the children sound so great.

His blindness didn’t stop him from this important role. He was so agile and focused too that I had not realised he was blind. I really admire his talent and skill. It made me think how important it is not to be blind to our own bias or limited thinking. We think that we are trying to help other people – when in fact, they are helping us grow and see the world in a new, bigger way.

I reflect on the wonderful way in which God works and I am reminded of Proverbs 3:5.

“Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.”