Our Sven
Sven came to us from Germany in September of 2023. Although for the first couple of weeks he was introduced as Ben from Ashtabula it only took a few chats about oceans, airplanes and a land far away before we embraced his true point of origin and began introducing him as Ben from Germany. Ben kind of stuck with us. We did often call him Sven, but not always.
Our Sven is the gentlest of souls. He is gentle, kind and patient. He was also always a willing cohort in mischief, random acts of kindness and community life. Sven helped care for our gardens both at home and at the Hearth. He is a splendid waterer and always included Jay, Bev and Sam in the watering tasks.
Our Sven is also a very good cook. He mastered mashed potatoes while here and I mean mastered! He introduced us to some German meals. We especially loved his pancakes, which were more like a slightly thicker crepe with veggies in it. His favorite foods seemed to be, need I say…mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, cottage cheese, 27 grain bread and Rooibos tea to name just a few. He also loved nuts, cashew especially. He seemed to prefer healthy food, which was a good example for us all. I know there were more favorites, but these were the ones I am most familiar with. Sven brought himself in hope and he shared that hope with us. Hopefully we were able to give him hope and even a few ideas about embracing L’Arche to take forward on his next adventure - his university studies in Germany.
We all enjoyed watching sunsets together at Walnut Creek, Sunday brunch at Saint Perkins and our grand finally of visiting the Cleveland Aquarium just before Sven headed home. Sven also attended the Regional Gathering with Jay and shared that he was very glad he went. We will remember with warmth our many birdwatching adventures while driving around the peninsula in search of the illusive Blue Heron. Good times.
We have heard from him since he’s been home and reports he is well and just about to begin his studies. Sven enhanced our lives greatly here at Serenity home. Samuel wept when he left. His gentleness was a tremendous blessing to us all. We miss him and hope the very best for all his tomorrows.
Danka Sven,
Rosemary