"When you don't know the words to say, sing."

*Dr. Wangari Muta Maathai

I do not believe there are words great enough to describe my experience yesterday. Dr. Wangari Muta Maathai, 2004 Noble Peace Laureate and graduate of Mount Saint Scholastica College was in Atchison this weekend. The Sisters were blessed to be able to welcome her "home" and the college more than honored to have her speak. I was blessed, I was able to attend all of the events of the day. Brunch and Mass at the Mount, speech and book signing at the college, and the dinner in honor of Wangari last evening. When Wangari made her initial entrance into the Mount, it was like a ray of sunshine had blasted the room. To understand what I mean, you would have to be there. I have been told numerous times how she 'lights up a room' but to see it in action is something completely different. The room was filled with nothing but pure joy and unconditional love.

The liturgy was amazing. S. Presentasia from Tanzania brought the Gospel forward in the tradition of her culture. A basket with material was placed on her head and the Gospel lay inside. While drums were played and the swahilli version of "Alleluia" sang, Presentasia gracefully and gently danced the Gospel to the altar. It was very moving and very wonderfully done. The homily was magnificent and there were many teary eyes in the chapel, tears of elation. Wangari addressed Benedictine College, challenging each and everyone of us to be "committed, persistent, and patient," reminding us that the future of our planet does not rely on government, but the citizens--it is the duty of the people to save the world for the future generations that will rely on today's resources to survive. I left that room thinking that I could go change the world--that is how much power and enthusiasm she gave to her audience. With her dynamic speaking, humor, knowledge, and genuine hope she delievered a speech that went beyond the intellect and into the soul. To put into words the feelings of many that day would be to put limits on emotions and that just does not exist. I am so grateful that I was able to have a bit of time with her to talk. How wonderful she is, when she talks to you its as though you are the only one exists, even when 200 people are surrounding you and wanting her attention. During our conversation we got to talk about my wanting to do a mission trip, possibly to Africa---she immediately told me to let her know where I would be, to see if we could arrange a visit--I think my look must have been disbelief because she said "honest" and with that she gave me a hug. I think I was in shock, I couldn't believe I was being embraced by a Noble Laureate, much less talking to her. I left feeling like I could go out and do anything I wanted to do, make the world a better place, because I was unstoppable. How interesting it is that someone can do that to someone's spirit and soul in a matter of minutes. Now, the question I'm left with is, how?

To be in the same room with Wangari is to be in a constant embrace of love and joy--and until you experience it for yourself, words don't do it justice. I am so grateful to the Sisters who brought Wangari here--without them we would not have had the experience, the challenge she brought us, or the strength to really listen to that "little voice deep within." I'm still so energized this morning. It was hard to fall asleep last night, I was on cloud 9 after spending almost the whole day in the presence of a prophet. I can hardly wait to get my pictures developed.

Thank you Dr. Wangari Muta Maathai, for your work, for your hope, for your love, and most gratefully for your life!