Morning prayer has just ended at St. Elias Priory in Middletown. Father Mike has enjoined Brother Charles, soon to be ordained, to await his turn to be interviewed.
“I suppose I’m set,” thought the prospective Carmelite priest.
“I’ve studied the Rule of St. Albert,and Teresian and Sanjuanist theology and philosophy, for eight years.”
In spite of all his confidence, he couldn’t help getting an unbearably dry mouth. His coarse brown habit and cream colored mantle were starting to feel heavy.
“My married friends and relatives have one kind of responsibilities in their vocation,” he thought, “and I have another.”
eastelmhurst.a.go.go 
This prompt does give a feeling of anticipation. You caught it well with the reference to the scratchy cloth and reflections on study.
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Thanks.I’ve been in that world. The story is set in a real Carmel
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You painted a great picture in 100 words.
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Thanks. It helps that I have some experience in that world too
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Beautifully Written
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Thanks. I’m happy you liked it
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Unusual take on the prompt. I had never thought of priests having responsibilities 🙂 Thanks for bringing in that perspective.
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They have quite an exceptionally large number of intense responsibilities
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True. Being a shepherd of wayward flocks is not easy 😦
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Dear Larry,
Love the POV in this. Nicely done.
Shalom,
Rochelle
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Thanks Rochelle. That environment’s always been a part of my world
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Good story, Larry. It’s plain to see you’ve had experience in being in that Carmelite world. People often don’t realize how full a schedule a religious has. Well done. 🙂 — Suzanne
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Thanks Suzanne. I”ve been involved with them for most of the 21 century
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