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National Clinical Training Seminar Reflection by
Maria Scaros-Mercado
It was to be my first conference with my new found colleagues and mentors. I was shifting into a new role and looked forward to being with same minded people who truly believed in the integrity and grace of the human spirit. Though anticipation was undeniable, I consciously shifted into my Buddhist self so as to be comfortable in the place of “not knowing”. This I felt was the only way in which to truly prepare to meet people who, in my mind, were to be my gurus. Entering the Carmelite Retreat Center I immediately felt the serenity. I drove up to a full parking lot without much activity and entered a room swirling with the colors and shapes of diversity and the music of chatter, laughter and comradery. I soon became aware of a smile that spontaneously came across my mouth along with a sense of belonging.
As everyone introduced themselves I found myself listening intently to each and every one. It was at the picture taking segment that I met an Orthodox Christian priest. He recognized my prayer bracelet. I was thrilled to meet him in this community. I had been feeling somewhat lonely in that my particular tradition was not well represented. I felt that that those in my Orthodox Christian community needed to show more of a presence in the NCTS. My prejudices were shattered and I was pleased. Though I felt a strong connection with my fellow chaplains in training, meeting an Orthodox Christian priest was the piece de resistance.
The first day’s program on Bioethics proved to be very cerebral. An important component to our work, it poses intriguing challenges in chaplaincy. The second day’s program was one in which I looked forward. Spontaneous prayer was the subject. The idea of spontaneous prayer for an Orthodox Christian is as difficult as it is for a Jew. I felt redeemed. Thank you Rabbi.
I was also blessed to have been assigned to a small group that included an extraordinary group of people. We shared not only our case studies, but a bit of our souls. As we concluded our second day, we felt as if we knew each other much longer, for indeed, we knew each other much deeper. The mutual respect and familial love was manifest between us all.
Most, but not all was sunshine, lollipops and rainbows. The Tavistock group was plugged in to the program on the second day. The process of this “encounter group” was a surprise to me and to many of the new comers. Most were befuddled. Others were disturbed and confused. Those who took it in stride were familiar with the process. It seemed to be an incongruous component to the conference. But that is from a new comer’s perspective.
All in all, I left the conference yearning for more. Questions arouse yet hope and comfort were clear. Upon driving beyond the retreat center I realized that I had embraced a new community in which I felt proud. I left looking forward to the next meeting and praying that a third day be added next year. To those with whom I shared and to those I meant to share, many thanks and peace to you all.
Posted by Perry Miller, Editor at December 22, 2009 5:51 AM
