Meet Br. Rob
The Midwest District interviewed Br. Rob Veselsky, a Senior Brother who is retired and lives at the La Salle Community at Lewis University (Romeoville, Illinois).
If Br. Rob’s name sounds familiar, count yourself among the blessed individuals to receive an uplifting thank you call from him. Br. Rob regularly volunteers in the Midwest District Provincial Office fulfilling Auxiliary Memorial Card requests and calling donors to thank them for their support.
What inspired you to become a Christian Brother?
I was 15 years old when I met the Brothers and I was inspired by their joy and happiness and I wanted that so I asked my parents if I could join the Brothers…they said YES never thinking I would stay.
Tell us about a Brother mentor in your life.
Br. Terence McLaughlin became my mentor. I was going through a difficult time, didn’t know if I was coming or going but the following statement he offered me made all the difference in the world “Rob, I cannot tell you what to do but I am here to support you.” This was the turning point of my profession… my commitment to remain a Brother forever!
Tell us about some of the Brothers who inspired you.
I believe there have been a number of Brothers who have inspired me by becoming their best selves, realizing they had been given some special gifts from God and at the same time knowing they had some weaknesses. They choose to give their best selves to others, letting God shine forth through their lives!!
How have you continued to live your vocation after retirement? What else would you like to accomplish?
I am retired, but am active through students retreats, ministry of listening and sharing the wisdom of the ages to others. I don’t know if it is about accomplishing something but it is about “being for others!”
What is one gift you would present to your students?
If I had one gift to give students I would give the gift of patience. Sometimes it takes time to find our “passion in life” by being patient with Gold’s help and taking one step at a time a dream can be realized.