By: Melissa Grau
Sister Leclare’s Commandments
I. Volunteer yourself.
Not unlike Rosie the Riveter’s “We Can Do It” mantra, Sister Leclare Beres always envisions how she can benefit any situation. When another sister asked who Leclare thought would like to go on a religious study tour to China, Leclare said, “The only name I can give you is Sister Leclare.” She was 82 at the time. Take opportunities to benefit others, and you’ll end up enriching yourself.
II. Discern value.
Even if you have enough energy to function on two hours of sleep, like Leclare was known to do, it is not wise to say “yes” to everything. Take a moment to reflect. In Idaho, Leclare used to sit at a desk in the hospital’s utility closet, gazing out a hidden window with the good view. “When things got really tough, I’d just go look at the Tetons and meditate on God, and then I’d get all settled down.”
III. Judge just the action.
Assume the best in people. Sandy Brekke says Leclare clearly judged actions, not people, and she could easily help someone to understand that they are in charge of their own actions. Transcending judgment is empowering.
IV. Forgive.
In Guam, her no-nonsense philosophy eventually angered her superiors, spurring a campaign to remove her from the hospital. After a lengthy trial, she remained director of nurses amidst many who conspired against her. “I learned that you can forgive and that you can really forget…And the next two years were the best two years I had,” says Leclare. “We have an opportunity with whatever happens in our life that we can be forgiving and go on and live a wonderful life.”
V. Be passionate about fun.
Find what you truly love, and do it every day. “She loved to bike. I remember several times she would come to work on Monday all scratched up because she caught some gravel on a ride,” recalls Joe Kruse, chuckling. Alone or with friends, whether 20 miles or 491, she made time to pursue her passion until she was 83 years old. Leclare’s “game-for-anything” attitude also reinforces how spontaneity and verve are equally important to foster fun.
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