On the day that Sister Mary Katherine entered the Monastery of Silence, the Priest said, “Sister, this is a silent monastery. You are welcome here, and may stay with us as long as you like, but you may not speak
until I direct you to do so.”
Sister Mary Katherine nodded her assent, bowed her head and stepped out into the m…onastery grounds…where she lived in silence for a full 5 years before the Priest summonsed her and said, “Sister Mary Katherine, you have been here for 5 years. You may speak two words.” Sister Mary Katherine said, “Hard bed.”
“I’m sorry to hear that,” the Priest said, “We will get you a better bed.”
After another 5 years of silent contemplation, Sister Mary Katherine was called again by the Priest. “You may say another two words, Sister Mary Katherine.”
“Cold food,” said Sister Mary Katherine. The Priest assured her that the food would be better in the future. On her 15th anniversary at the monastery, the Priest called Sister Mary Katherine once again into his office. “You may say two words today, Sister Mary Katherine.”
“I quit,” said Sister Mary Katherine.
“It’s probably best”, said the Priest, “All you have done is moan since you’ve been here.”
