Susan Shields and Mother Teresa

Susan Shields reveals a side of Mother Teresa we haven’t heard before. Susan mentions millions from charitable donations never got to the poor and afflicted. She comments about Mother Teresa turning a blind eye to the poor. Susan also states Mother Teresa had 3 fundamental teachings she followed–Obedience, Suffering and Non-Attachment were part of the rules and regulations that were prevalent in religious congregations before Vatican ll.

http://www.plime.com/l/23470/1/

As I read this article a few things came to mind. Could it be Mother Teresa was under  great obligation to follow the rules and regulations? Is this part of the obediance vow? She certainly was from the old school of thought. Taking on the role of suffering and obedience has been a huge controversy over the years.

Lets take this to the next level. When we lose ourselves by agreeing to defy what we know in our heart of hearts to be honorable, what have we ultimately forgotten? What have we allowed? It’s really not about a situation or another person or group, it’s about us.   We lose our true self, somehow and there are opportunities to change it.

Mother Teresa is very symbolic to many people, including me and will continue to be. At times, was she overwhelmed and did she allow the pressures of politics cloud her?  Looking at the tremendous responsibility from afar, it makes me dizzy just imagining!

Susan, I have a question for you? What do you think Mother Teresa could of done better?  And, do you think it would of been successful? Maybe she was helping you in ways you haven’t yet recognized? :)   First,  you are very brave to stand up to what you feel is important,  a huge breakthrough, espy what you’ve passionately wrote about! Second, there is a bigger purpose to your experience. One glimpse, for young women who are afraid to step forward, whatever situation they are in. We are coming into the feminine, and you’ll see more and more of this occurring.

In closing, I had a flashback experience that sort of ties in to this blog. It was a conversation I had with my late father over 23 years ago. I mentioned to him that I was going to therapy.  My father had an absolute fit as he felt it was a weakness I didn’t have. I was from strong stock.  He was totally shaken by this.  And- in his belief system, one never shares family business with anyone!  It was like I was going against the family,  those days was a disgrace to do so, (some still follow this belief) and everyone wanted to keep everything under that dusty worn out carpet with piles of other unresolved issues.  The wild part, Dad lived a dysfunctional life but he didn’t look at it that way as he was the ruler in the family. He thought I was very dysfunctional for receiving therapy. He, along with many in his generation, from the old school of thought…do what I say, not what I do. Follow the rules. I can now say after many years of experiences and soul searching…”Daddy, you indirectly pushed me in blessed directions you were unaware of, or were you? :)   With great gratitude, I thank you for helping me to get to this place in time on this journey called life.”

Susan, blessings on your journey. May you use this experience as a stepping stone for the greater good of all.

Cynthia

My Mother Teresa Story

My Mother Teresa Story

My story begins in 2003 while I was reading a spirituality-themed magazine during a vacation in Maui. I came across this phenomenal photo of Mother Teresa in communion with The Missionaries of Charity— I literally had to catch my breath. I sat in awe, admiring how this incredible photograph captured the sacred light of a gathering, as if emanating from the photo itself. I immediately felt compelled to contact the photographer to purchase and represent this wonderful image of a woman whose mission continues to change the way “our world will do service,” in the coming years.

I believe, as we venture forth in this new era, service will evolve dramatically. We are in a new time of community building, of family, of caring and sharing more of what we have and how we give-than ever before. I also believe if we do not begin to think and work from more of a communal mindset, peace cannot exist. Do most people know what “communion” truly means?  And do they model it’s essence when they leave their respective Church’s?

In “communion”, a gathering comes together as One. In “communion”, we should accept others unconditionally, knowing where they are on their journey is the place at which they need to be. When we separate from others, we’re breaking away from our Source. It is at this point we truly begin to falter and where judgement begins to take root. Each path may be somewhat different but each person is heading to a place of Oneness with our Source. And “communion” doesn’t end when we leave church! It’s a reminder to be “communion” every day. Humanity has some deep separation issues to get to this place in time but I have a strong faith we will get there!

After a year or more of prayer, meditation and purchasing every book on Mother Teresa, I came to name this rare photo…”Give of your hands to serve and your hearts to love.”  This photo is a blessed reminder of it’s sacredness. I’ve given many to those who model “true communion” with others.

Mother Teresa’s was an example of a beloved being in “true communion” with others. She provided loving and selfless service to the most challenging depictions of human suffering. Hers was the kind of service that deserves our continued recognition. I truly believe her work will blossom as time moves forward! Saint Mother Teresa. It suits her essence well!

In humble gratitude,

Cynthia Long