3 Reminders From St. Clare for 21st-Century Businesswomen
“Have no fear, little daughters; trust in Jesus” (St. Clare of Assisi).
Even though St. Clare lived more than 700 years ago, this extraordinary woman, who was the founder of the Order of Poor Ladies (later called the Order of St. Clare and often referred to as the Poor Clares), which is about 20,000 strong, teaches us today the value of vision, perseverance, and healing.
1. To See Beyond What Is in Front of Us
St. Clare is attributed with the gift of vision and is known for having been able to see things that were not within her physical sight. One of the most notable examples was when she saw St. Francis of Assisi, her mentor, on his deathbed, although she was living her enclosed life of prayer and contemplation in her convent. While we may not have visions, remembering this gift of St. Clare’s can encourage us to look beyond what is right in front of us and to keep sight of what is most meaningful.
Although there is much to occupy our minds each day as we address deadlines, personnel and vendor issues, and supply chain challenges, the quality of seeing what is most valuable and important about our work puts the other necessary tasks in perspective.
2. To Persevere Until the End
St. Clare requested approval from the pope for her inspired Rule of Life, which included a vow to own absolutely nothing. Just days before her passing, St. Clare received the much sought-after approval, years after she originally made the request as is further explained in this Catholic Encyclopedia piece.
Although it may seem nearly impossible to grasp such a request given our current lifestyle, St. Clare had the perseverance to pursue her request (for literally nothing!), even if it didn’t happen on her desired timeline.
3. That Healing Touch
St. Clare’s gift of healing is one that deserves reflection. Where and when in our day can we offer a simple gift of healing? Can we do it by engaging the barista, the delivery driver, or the checkout clerk? By drafting an email with a tone of reconciliation? With a hug, a handshake, an offer to carry someone else’s bags, or the holding open of a door? Is there an opportunity to include in a new project the ideas of someone who had a professional setback and is now feeling less confident? What actions today can we infuse with the power of touch and, consequently, offer the gift of healing?
An Inspiration Through Actions and Words
St. Clare served as an inspiration to one of the most famous Catholic businesswomen, Mother Angelica, who also was a member of the Order of St. Clare.
As discussed in this video, it seems fitting that St. Clare was named the patron saint of television, especially since the world has her to thank for the unending work, feisty approach, and utter and complete dedication exhibited for decades by Mother Angelica in bringing Catholic news, education, and entertainment to the world. Certainly, we can say that the qualities of vision, perseverance, and healing were passed on to the 20th-century international businesswoman Mother Angelica.
St. Clare also encourages us to go into each day unafraid: “Go forth my soul, go forth without fear; for thou hast a good guide for the journey.”
As we take time to think about St. Clare on her feast day of August 11, we would be wise to incorporate the lessons we learn from her into our daily life. Even 700 years later, a woman known as Poor Clare can show us how to be rich in the most meaningful ways.
Linda A. Burrows is an attorney specializing in trust and estate law in southern California. She studied journalism at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, law at Pepperdine, and tax law at Georgetown. Linda is the founder of Soul Soda, a non-profit with the mission of refreshing faith in those, particularly Catholics, who are feeling disconnected from their religious roots. She is a wife and mother of three teens. Linda’s Confirmation name was that of St. Gabriel the Archangel.