Learning to Hear a Still Quiet Voice

During a visit to the Daughters of St. Paul, the Sisters, Sister Anne, introduced me to a hidden gem, a book called “Eli's Quiet Friend.” It was a discovery that would deeply resonate with me. 

Being someone with ADHD and a parent of children with autism, I often struggle to be still and quiet. The sweetness of this book and the illustrations spoke to me in such a deep way. 

I know God is calling me to be still with him more, and this book gives a beautiful visual of how my son most likely processes the world around us. Just as he calls me, he is also calling our children with that same desire. Taking my son with autism to Adoration is new for me, and only something I have attempted over the last two years a few times. It has been on my heart to do it more often, hoping it can bring the peace of Jesus to my son, as it does for me. Finding this book is the Holy Spirit confirming this for me! 

God created us to want to be with him because he is in us and calls us to sit in his love and be one with it. The stillness and quiet are a gift to us in a world full of distractions and noise that doesn't want that for us. 

Adoration provides us with an escape from the busyness and overwhelmingness that prevent us from hearing the Holy Spirit speaking to us. We are always called and invited to be present and receive the gift of our loving Jesus, whether it be on First Fridays or in a nearby Adoration Chapel. 

At first, I did not want to buy the book because my son with autism is 21, but I went back to buy the book for myself. I am such a visual person, and I can personally relate to Eli's journey in this world. 

While I wish this book had been available when my sons were younger, I am excited to share this invaluable resource with you. It's not just a book, but a treasure trove of guidance and inspiration.  You can find “Eli's Quiet Friend” on the Pauline website, https://gliot.pauline.org/elis-quiet-friend/

Also, look at the bonus content on the website. Sister Gliot shares resources for teaching kids how to pray and tips for creating sensory-friendly prayer spaces.  

Gina Sternfels graduated from Immaculata High School and LSU, where she studied fine arts and psychology. She now resides on the Northshore with her husband, Roland and three boys. She is passionate about disabilities as she has a son with autism and participates on the Archdiocese Commission on Persons with Disabilities. With Roland, she has been part of Catholic Engaged Encounter for many years.