Sr. M. Roselima-Theresa Matlali

My Roots

My name is **Sr. M. Roselima-Theresa Matlali** (formerly known as Moleboheng). I come from the community of **Botshabelo**, Free State. My walk with God has been a profound inner process of listening, uncovering, and learning to surrender entirely to His holy will.

The Symbol of the Rose

When reflecting deeply on my vocation, I choose the **Rose** as my symbol—a special plant that brings happiness wherever it is found. A rose symbolizes love and passion, yet even with all its beauty, it is delicate and can be fragile. I see my own life mirrored in its petals.

There are hidden times when a rose gets hurt and begins to dry up, and I have known those seasons in my own heart. Sometimes I would get hurt or find myself crying without a clear reason, healing slowly and quietly without anyone else noticing. Often, by the time others notice a rose was drying, it is already quietly recovering. Its petals tell the story that something was wrong, yet it survives. I take myself as a rose before God.

Discerning and Pushing Forward

During my discernment, there were moments of immense pressure that forced me to think deeply. Sitting alone, questions roamed constantly through my head: *Would I be able to balance my vocation and my school, pushing them both, or should I push one at a time? Is the Lord truly testing me to see where my passion lies?*

There were times I felt as though I was navigating this immense journey completely alone. But through those challenges, a quiet voice reminded me not to worry—to remain strong in the face of everything. The path of religious life is not a simple one, but dedication, faith, and patience make it possible. I realized that patience is an absolute virtue.

Living the Vocation

I am deeply grateful to God for constantly revealing the path of my vocation to me, giving me the understanding to believe even when the road is not easy. With Him, everything is possible to achieve. Having made my temporary profession, I look back at my early steps with gratitude, knowing that every challenge has given me the courage to shine, grow, and attract God's grace—just like a plant receiving the nourishment it needs to thrive.