Remembering the Past, Looking Forward to the Future

Earlier in the week, the Daughters of Wisdom Sisters and staff gathered with full hearts to reminisce about the many years spent together in the Islip, NY office. As they watched a video tour looking back on 66 years of the convent and offices, gratitude filled the room for the countless memories, friendships, and milestones shared within those walls. With deep appreciation for the past and hope for what lies ahead, the video offered heartfelt prayers for the future together in the new West Islip, NY office this month. But as the seasons cycle, so do many other things; relocating to West Islip means returning to familiar ground, where the Daughters of Wisdom founded Good Samaritan Hospital in 1959.

Nevertheless, saying goodbye is never easy, and finding closure can often be bittersweet. Yet sharing this farewell over pastries and thoughtful gifts brought comfort and warmth, making the transition feel a little gentler for everyone. We are especially grateful to Jacquie Hagihara, our beloved memory maker, whose generosity and thoughtfulness made this farewell truly special. As we prepare to leave this place we have come to love, we carry with us memories of treasured times at work and the blessings that have touched our lives beyond these walls. Jacquie designed and gifted a beautiful ornament depicting the house and property—a heartfelt tribute to the place we called work. This keepsake will serve as a cherished reminder of the beauty that filled our vision each time we pulled into work and of the community we built together.  Honoring the memory of Sr. Joan Rohan, DW—who lovingly set the table with pastries from Stanley’s Bakery in East Islip, NY, for every important gathering—Sr. Evelyn Eckhardt, DW, continued the tradition with a delightful array of sweets for this special meeting. Through these simple joys, the spirit of togetherness and remembrance was beautifully upheld.