While I am obviously excited that the Saints are playing on Sunday, there is something more about this incredible event that is tugging at my heart, and making me want to celebrate it whole-heartedly. The Superbowl is causing me to stop, pause, reflect and remember Hurricane Katrina and all that happened in the great city of New Orleans five years ago, and all that has happened in this recovery phase of New Orleans.
I cannot help but be reminded of the resiliency of a city spirit’s. There has been re-birth and growth. There is still much progress to be made though. So much of my Louisiana culture comes from the great food, music, and spirit of New Orleans. It has a way of permeating your way of life and lifting your spirit when you live in Louisiana for 28 years! I am so thankful that the city’s spirit is still alive!
I cannot help but think of all the people who were effected by Katrina physically and emotionally. I see so many examples of people who have worked so hard at their own recovery and who have made their comeback with the help of so many. My Uncle Steve said it best recently, “their stories are inspirational!”.
The very field that the Saints play on in the Superdome serves as an icon for all of us to remember what once was and to remember the re-building and growing pains of what is occurring right now in both New Orleans and in people’s lives. It also serves as a reminder of what will be.
The Saints playing on Sunday serves as a symbol of hope for so many! They remind us that we can overcome and re-build anything that happens in our lives.
This moment in history on Sunday celebrates so much, and I hope you will join all Louisianians and the Who Dat Nation in celebrating this moment and in rooting for the Saints!
Today, let’s pause, remember, and pray for all those who are in the period of re-birth.
Becky Eldredge
Becky is an Ignatian-trained spiritual director, retreat facilitator, and writer. She is the author of the Busy Lives and Restless Souls (March 2017, Loyola Press) and The Inner Chapel (April 2020, Loyola Press). She helps others create space to connect faith and everyday life through facilitating retreats and days of reflection, through writing, and through spiritual direction. With nearly twenty years of ministry experience within the Catholic Church, Becky seeks to help others discover God at work in the every day moments of people’s lives by utilizing St. Ignatius’ Spiritual Exercises and the many gifts that our Catholic faith and Ignatian Spirituality provide.
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