At a very young age I marveled at the wonders in my environment. I had a “joie de vivre”. Shy and timid, I was very sensitive to gestures of affection and attention received from my parents and older members of my family.
It was during my childhood that I made a choice that would last my lifetime. The Little Missionaries of Saint Joseph won me over with their joyful spirit and simplicity. This community was founded in Otterburne, Manitoba by Brother Louis Gareau, c.s.v. and his niece, Hélène Gareau when she was only twenty-six years old. Their apostolic works with the poor were particularly of interest to me, including teaching orphans and hard of hearing children.
I left my family and friends in McLennan for initiation into this community and religious life in Otterburne, Manitoba. There were twenty of us, young and vibrant.
Having recently celebrated my 85th birthday, I reflect on the time that has passed since I first began my journey down memory lane compiling what is now the story of my life. I offer this story to you my family and friends. It is a very simple story about the humble life I have been called to live. Stories are presented in various ways. The first and one of the oldest known to us is the Old Testament. It is the beginning of the story of God. The second or New Testament, is the story of God’s son, Jesus Christ, our Saviour. And now, what follows is the story of my life, which I wholly offered to God at a very tender young age.
Yvonne Laurin
