Saturday, October 31, 2009

This is My Commandment

Today, on this Eve of the Feast of All Saints, I continue the series about detach- ment. Today's topic is also about detachment from others but with a bit of a twist. We live in a world with great differences among its people...differences in race, traditions, foods, ideas, beliefs, and values. We often find ourselves in circumstances in which, because of our differences, we find it very difficult to like, let alone love, people with differing world views. But, as my priest pointed out this morning, above all else, we are commanded (not suggested) to love one another as Jesus loves us (John 15:12). What does that mean for us in regards to detachment? It means that despite what others are doing, no matter what, we are to find joy and happiness in our own lives for the simple reason that we are Loved perfectly by our Father in Heaven. This, of course, does not imply that all behaviors of others are acceptable and should be tolerated. Very often, action may be required of us to stop abuses. But, despite unfavorable behaviors (our own included), we are called to love. May we persevere in witnessing the Love that God so generously bestows upon us.

Friday, October 30, 2009

The Snare

When we think about living a life of detach- ment, it is easy to conclude that detachment from things is the only issue. However, one of the biggest struggles that we must all face is the detachment from others. That is.... the detachment from their opinions of us, our need for their approval, the need to be understood, and the need to be right. We can become so afraid of what others may think and say about us, that we forget to be who we were truly created to be.... ourselves, created in the image of Love. "The fear of man brings a snare, but he who trusts in the Lord is safe." (Proverbs 29:25) We were created to love others, but we were not created to live our lives in such a way that we cease to become our authentic selves. We must each live by our conscience, following the guidance of the Holy Spirit in all things. When we live our lives in the ways that God leads us, we most certainly risk not being liked or understood. To some, we may become their "kill joy". However, if we are truly living our lives filled with joy because we've submitted to a deeper understanding of love, our lives will become very attractive to those around us who are struggling themselves. May we all be courageous enough to take an honest look at ourselves, do a daily Examination of Conscience, and persevere in living the life to which we were called....one of Holiness (to love like God).

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

From One Source Flows Life

As I mentioned in my last post, I'll be sharing what I am learning about detachment. I met with my priest last week to discuss this very subject. Father explained to me that I need to try to look at the world, life and my surroundings in more simplistic terms. He recommended that I try to think about the fact that all things flow from One Source, our Creator. He explained that things really are not as complicated as they seem. If we can look at our lives from the standpoint that no matter what... God loves us, we will then have the inner peace to live our lives with joy. Out of inner peace and simplicity will flow exterior peace. Our surroundings may tell us a lot about our interior lives. Do we have areas in our homes that are not quite as organized as they should be? Have we accumulated so much that we don't have time to enjoy any of it? Do we own things, or do they own us? What importance have we "attached" to the physical things in our lives? Do we make things more important than people? Are our things negatively impacting those in our life? God has very clearly said to me over the past few years Sell all that you have and give it to the poor. When I asked Him if He wanted me to sell my house and everything in it, He said No. Sell every excess that is evil. He wasn't saying to me that the "things" are evil. I don't have to get rid of everything. What He was saying was get rid of the "excess". "Evil" is anything that keeps our hearts and minds cluttered in such a way that we cannot fully experience God's Presence in our lives. It is the excesses that add no value to our lives... that are a distraction and keep our lives stagnant instead of flowing. It's important to note that it is perfectly fine to own possessions. What's important to ask ourselves is whether the possessions own us. I am currently working to clear out the excesses in my own life. Father also made it very clear that perfection should not be our goal. A little messy is good! Take some time today to reflect about the deep Love that God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit have for each and every one of us. Are there any excesses in your physical world that are holding you back from really enjoying your life? What is your attitude toward those things? Is there someone who may benefit from these things to whom you can give them? May you have peace in your hearts and minds today and always.

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Detachment


I've been doing a lot of thinking and reading about detachment lately... God has most
certainly prompted me in this direction. I've heard His Voice telling me to sell all that you have and give it to the poor. I've heard it at Mass in the Gospel readings. I've felt Him nudge me toward specific books on the subject. And I've "known" to seek out spirtual advisors to help me learn more about detaching from the world. He is leading me down a path that is helping to fullfill a deep desire for inner peace and happiness. Detachment... not just from things, but from the need for approval from others, the need to be understood, the need to contol things that are out of my control, the need to have people act in ways that I think they should act. Detachment is a well-known practice of monks, but it can be our practice, too. I have found a limited number of resources on the subject, but maybe I have found enough of them to grow in peace, happiness, contentment, and joy. I will dedicate the next several postings to sharing what I am learning and experiencing regarding detachment. I hope that you find some freedom in your hearts and minds as you journey down this path with me. (Photo: The Philospher by Rembrandt)