Adjusting to intentional living

Current St. Louis Loretto Volunteers explore St. Louis with former volunteer Jes Stevens (2014-2015) during local orientation. Photo courtesy of Jes.

Just for starters: Before I joined the rest of my fellow Loretto volunteers in the Tobin House this summer, I had been living on my own for about six years. I went from six years in a gracious one-bedroom apartment to, now, one year in a modest three-bedroom with four other women that I had never met before. These young women have their own beliefs, ideas, personalities, voices, and styles. (The different styles make great for sharing clothes!) I’ve always considered myself to be an independent person and this first month with these many new women have challenged what I thought I knew about myself. In the best way possible.

​The nights when spent all together in community help me to slow down my busy routine and know that I am never alone in anything I do. Community is challenging, rewarding, and joyous. That is what makes it beautiful. Community shines a reflection of yourself through meaningful human interaction. Also, while living on a new modest stipend I’ve come to learn that one of these best attributes of community is that it’s free!
 
 
Candace Okon is originally from Dallas, Texas but has spent much of her adult life in St Louis, MO. She graduated with a degree in history from Washington University in St Louis. While living in the city of St Louis, Candace volunteered with the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of St. Louis in conjunction with the Taize Community in Burgundy, France to bring racial reconciliation and healing to the city. In addition to volunteering, she enjoys spending time outdoors (camping, hiking, kayaking), traveling abroad, and listening to live music. ​
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