The Life of Brother Cristophe

by Julia Wagner

In this past life, I’m the eldest of three brothers, . Our mother is catatonic. We care for her while my father is away at Sea. I’m 13 or 14, and life is tough. We’re in France. I think it’s the 1750s.

I beg for alms daily, with my mother.

As children, the responsibility thrust upon us is enormous. We take care of ourselves and each other, almost like wild animals would.

One day a group of traveling monks see me begging. One Father in particular, with kind eyes, takes pity on us. He asks me questions about my family, my brothers, my mother. I realize he’s making sure my mother will have care, as he invites me to join the church. He tells me I can come with them. I can learn to read. I’ll be fed. I’ll have a chance at a better life. A different fate. I’ll be supported in a way I’ve never been before

I grow. I learn. I’m dedicated. My faith and my appreciation is strong. I’m a diligent worker; I spend time in prayer, I read and transcribe the scripture. It’s a good life. I don’t see my family often, but I’m able to ensure they are cared for. Everyone’s standard of living improved. I read, prayed, wrote, and chanted. It was a simple, satisfying life.

When directed to go to an “important day” in that life, I see myself washing dishes. I’m near a well, on the ground. The water isn’t pristine- it’s a little muddy. But I’m smiling. Happily washing dishes. That’s all. Nothing life shattering.

No intrigue. No drama or corruption in the monastery-at least that I saw.

I’m content. That is what is important.

My Lessons:

In this life as Julia, I have NOT loved doing dishes.
It doesn’t help that for years at a time, there was no functioning kitchen sink in my apartment (thanks to my landlord). I had to walk to the bathroom for running water to do dishes, wash my hands or get a drink of water.

When I was shown the life of Brother Cristophe, I realized my life was easy compared to his. Walking to the bathroom- ten steps- was closer than going to the well. I have indoor plumbing. I guess doing dishes isn’t that bad. Anytime I want to do dishes, I can channel Brother Christophe. He will GLADLY help me.

In another life I was a Buddhist monk, and in this life I’m’ an ordained minister. I seem to be drawn to spiritual philosophy lifetime after lifetime.

More about my life as A Buddhist monk here: