Yesterday is history, tomorrow is mystery.
As I reflect on 60 years of Dominican life, I am amazed how these six words have guided me…
I was born in Bay City, the daughter of Carl and Agnes Moeggenborg. The family eventually moved to rural Shepherd. There we lived among aunts, uncles, and cousins. In due time, our family welcomed additional children – 15 in all. Three children became our special angels shortly after birth.
My education began in a one-room country school. After grade school, we attended Shepherd High School. During my senior year, a car accident claimed the life of our father. It was a life-changing time for me. Encouraged by my mother, I accepted a scholarship and attended Central Michigan College hoping one day to be a teacher.
It was during that year that I heard that quiet invitation to enter religious life. I tried my best to quell that inner voice until I realized checking it out might bring peace. Every day I woke up feeling a bit more confident of that call.
As a child my wish was to become a teacher. As a Dominican Sister my wish was fulfilled. Teaching young children was a delight. As principal I found the challenge working with teachers and parents rewarding. Next came the invitation to vocation ministry. It was a prayerful experience. And I can’t neglect the volunteer work, a variety of opportunities to continue involvement in ministry. Yes, not only was my childhood dream fulfilled, but it was embellished by so many who supported and challenged me along the way. My life as a Dominican has afforded me with challenges beyond my dreams. Places I’ve seen, people I’ve met, each one unfolding the mysteries of life.
I am extremely grateful to my mother for her support, to the community for the numerous opportunities, and to all those who have touched my life, each in their own way. Much history has been lived these 60 years. I still marvel at the mystery of tomorrow.
