Versailles News

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Fans of Superman will recognize the term “Fortress of Solitude” as the place of solace and the occasional headquarters for Superman in DC Comics. Although I’m not a follower of the comic book superhero, I can and do appreciate his fortress of solitude. Put another way I like to answer the call to silence and enter the classroom of silence on a daily basis. Some people would call it collecting their thoughts, meditation, prayer, or unplugging; regardless of title it is refreshing and rejuvenating to one’s spirit, mind and body.

Silence is where peace emerges, visions become clear, and inner connections happen. We live in a busy 24/7 world which never sleeps. Gradually we succumb to the world’s constant motion by getting to bed later, getting up earlier, and squeezing one more task into an already full schedule turning ourselves into human doers instead of human beings. At some point we either stop and “be” or we “stop being”.

A good conversationalist will not monopolize a conversation, but rather keep the conversation balanced by listening 50% of the time. It’s when they are listening they have the potential to learn something new. None of us have all the answers, especially when it comes to our personal lives. Even the fictional character Superman needed to retreat for rest and relaxation. By implementing the three S’s; solitude, silence and stillness (like the S on the superhero’s chest) we too can reboot ourselves, much like a computer. After time spent alone in quiet reflection one usually comes away with clearer focus, although probably not with super human vision.

Some people view silence as awkward or uncomfortable, which it can be, but silence is also a language of its own, which can be used to convey anger or concern better than even the most eloquent words. In our sorrows, the silent presence of a loved one is capable of providing comfort similar to feeling the safety of an infant cradled by its mother.

Silence is a precious gift. For most of us it is difficult to calm our thoughts, quiet our minds and still our tongues. In this present day of phone calls, text messages, emails, and other modes of social media our lives are anything but silent. But with practice we can reap innumerable benefits by developing a routine of daily silence. In the beginning we may have difficulty in maintaining stillness, even for 10 minutes. Especially if our bodies are accustomed to continuous activity, but by deliberately shifting focus away from our body and its surroundings we can progress towards relaxation. Perhaps our minds are the most difficult to calm, as various tasks surface into our awareness so we have to consciously let go of such thoughts that inhibit our true desire and need for tranquility and peace.

None of us came with an owner’s manual because the software has been preloaded within; we only have to learn how to access the data. In that space between our words it’s where we find ourselves. When the mind is quiet, when there are no thoughts and no words to be said, we can hear our heart talking to us. We can hear our own soul and our own intuition. It is then our “manufacturer” or creator is as close as a breath. Our minds open as we become receptive and begin to understand the path that is planned for us by listening to his silent voice.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

“Mary Poppins” will be performed by the Towne & Country Players at the VHS Performing Arts Center tonight at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday at 2 p.m. Advanced reservations may be acquired by calling 564-6415. Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for students.

Today Trinity Lutheran Church holds their Annual Rummage Sale from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. – noon. This is a Relay for Life fundraiser and your support is appreciated.

This Sunday is Father’s Day and the Versailles Eagle’s Auxiliary is holding their buffet style breakfast from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. at the lodge. The breakfast includes sausage, pancakes, scrambled eggs, hash browns, bacon, biscuits and gravy, fruit, toast, orange juice and coffee for $7 for adults and $4 for children ages 4-10.

Mark your calendar for the beginning of the free Fountain Square Entertainment Series on Friday, June 26 at 7 p.m.—“Lone Star”. Also you’ll want to remember “Spring Clean Up Day” is Monday, June 29. Items that do not fit in the trash receptacles can be placed in your normal pickup spot for the town to discard. Appliances, furniture and tires will need a tag. For clarification contact the Village office at 526-3294.

Congratulations to Christa Puthoff who was crowned the 2015 Miss Chick, and to first runner-up Taylor Stover and second runner up Rachel Osterloh. Congratulations to Rhylan Broerman, daughter of Amber and Nick crowned 2015 Little Miss Poultry Days. First runner-up is Averi Ahrns, daughter of Tyanna and Karl and second runner-up Caleigh Stebbins, daughter of Mindy and Jason.

Birthday wishes to Joan Gigandet, Angie Keiser, Tonda Riley Monnin, Teresa Comer, Carolyn Poling, Crystal Hartzell, Jacki Stonebraker, Kris Barlage, Christy Baker, Judy Lumby, Joann Eilerman, Roberta Condon, Sandy Peters, Judy Benkert, Suzanne Hippley, Jeff Cochran, Cindy Grogean, Jenny Pleiman, Martha Magoto, Betty Monnin, Rita Brandon, Kasey Christian, Carrie Dehart, and Samantha Keiser as their birthdays approach, as well as, anniversary wishes Betsy and Jeremy Yagle (5), Debbie and Ted Blakeley, Judy and Jeff Cochran (28), and Tammy and Bruce Magoto.

Healing prayers and get well wishes to the Hamilton family, Andrew Kunk, Michelle Ullom, Sister Carmelita Monnin, Ron Bruner, Samantha Smith, Kyle Rutschilling, Judy Timmerman, Jennifer Platfoot, Barb Goubeaux, Isabella Yakos, Lisa Coate, Brian Voisard and all those dealing with life’s challenges, as well the hospitalized or homebound in need of our prayers but not mentioned by name.

Sincere sympathy to the family and friends of Michael Liette, Verena Bohman and Bernadine Homan, also remembering the lives of Dr. Jerry Mestemaker, Clara Paulus, Dan Eilerman, John Gearhardt, Alma Treon, Dick Brandon, Mary Monnin, Paul Pepiot, Eileen Morgan, Stew Prakel, Winnie Davidson, Dale Weese, Ed Bruns, Judy Brodrick and all those not mentioned by name as the anniversary of their recently passing.

“Silence is the sleep that nourishes wisdom.” ~Francis Bacon

“Speech is silver; silence is golden ~Proverb

“Silence is also conversation.” ~Ramana Maharshi

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