September 2008 Franziska Notes

Franziska Notes
No.5/9 September 2008

One of the greatest and most widespread sufferings of our day is loneliness. As the small neighborhoods and the front stoop disappeared many people became relegated to their own homes as their family members moved thousands of miles away. Mother Franziska was no stranger to loneliness. When she left the successful venture in Switzerland and came to Vienna, not at all sure of the future or where she would even get a livelihood, she suffered such loneliness that she became physically ill. In this pain she turned with all her heart and trust to God. She was ready to die if it should be his will but, perhaps more difficult, she was also patiently waiting for His will for her to become clear. She finally went out of her lonely room to do God’s work.

Loneliness can also make us ill today. It can also send us down useless paths as we try to fill the void in destructive ways. Loneliness can lead to addictions, to either substances or to the electronic passive companionship of the computer or television. In the life of Mother Franziska loneliness was a door to grace. She reached out first to God and then to a world of His needy children with effects right into our own day.

Everywhere there are people who are lonelier than we. In Church groups, in nursing homes, down our own street, we can find people who need our friendship and practical help. Beginning with a smile and greeting, advancing to kind words and companionship and finally to little acts of service.

The remedy for loneliness that is always ready at hand is the turning to the Lord in prayer. We are never really alone and He is the companion who loves us and may even come with tangible comfort. Jesus can open the landscape and show us to whom we can write a letter, make a phone call, pay a visit. We become His instrument bringing joy to other suffering souls.