Starting a New Journey

[PrettyPolly]

This is a really weird place to post this, but it is such a friendly forum and I just really have to tell someone.

After many years of thinking, considering and praying, I have made one of the biggest decisions of my life - and applied to be a postulant at a Benedictine convent.

It is something that has always been on my mind, and it wouldn't go away, no matter how much I tried to ignore it, and finally I realised I couldn't ignore God's calling anymore.

It is a bit scary, but so very exciting and I know it's the right thing to do for me, to devote my entire life to God.

The only problem is, I now have to rehome my darling Hagrid and I won't be allowed to take him with me.

I have very strong suspicions that my friend will take him though, he loves Hagrid and keeps mentioning that he wants a cat.

Sorry to post something so random on a cat website, just something I had to get off my chest as it were. Thanks for reading!

[EmmaG]

Good for you !!! I hope everything goes ok for you. More people should follow their heart I would hate to look back on my life and regret sometime major that I hadn't done but wanted to.

Wishing you loads of luck

[PrettyPolly]

Afraid so, Diddy Hobbit, it means giving up everything, my family, friends, job - it even means giving up the right to vote, have a bank account - we take vows of poverty, chastity (so yes, giving up THAT too!) and obedience. We are not allowed possessions. It breaks my heart knowing I have to give up Hagrid, but my calling is too strong to ignore. I know he will be happy with my friend though.

[MrsH]

That must have taken a lot of thought and prayer to decide on this step. Wishing you well in your vocation.

[PrettyPolly]

I am sorry that you feel I am being selfish, Diddy - a calling to religious life is not something that everyone can understand, and it is quite difficult to explain to people. When we take an animal on, we have no idea what the future may bring - what if we died, leaving that animal behind with nobody to look after them? I will ensure, with all my power, that Hagrid is cared for and well looked after, with a responsible person who can care for him. When God calls, we cannot ignore him, no matter what the consequences.

[dandysmom]

PrettyPolly, I was raised Catholic, so understand. The religious calling isn't for everyone...but when God calls you, you know it...all I can say is that I wish you the very best in your vocation, which will be hard but very rewarding. I'm touched that you chose to share this with us...may God bless and keep you!

[Donna]

I dont get the religious thing at all - why would they make you give up everything??? Its bizarre. And NOTHING would make me give up anything that means the world to me. I think church and all that is just a waste of time.

But admire the fact that you think it is what you want to do and good luck with your choice. Hope you find a home for your cat.

[Hreow]

I'm glad you have found the place you should be in your life. That must give you so much joy. Even with the sadness of giving up Hagrid. You've given him a new and good home, so you've done your best by him.

[Sweet]

Good Luck x

[Fran]

Wishing you all the very best of luck on your new path in life. I had a very strict Catholic upbringing and have to say it was something I did consider myself much earlier on in life. I know now it wouldn't have been the right path for me. I do wish you the very best and hope you are able to find a lovely new home for Hagrid x