No matter what’s going on in the world, it is always a good time to learn more about the people who matter most to us, and getting a break from discussing topics that cause stress and boredom is an added perk. These questions have done the trick for me.
Obedience isn’t the first virtue that comes to mind when I consider ways that I can strive for a life of everyday holiness. But putting it into practice in a few small ways has helped me to see the goodness that can flow from not allowing myself to be my own guide or god.
For all of us — students, young professionals, aspiring artists, members of families and communities, loyal friends, and more — time is a limited resource. Thoughtfully considering how we use the hours that we have been given, and maybe incorporating the wisdom of people who have gone before us, can impact the quality of our work, our satisfaction, and ultimately, our lives.
Prayer isn’t an instant fix, but it changes those who pray for the better.
Just over fifty words, the Suscipe is brief. But by moving me to complete three major actions — letting go, giving thanks, and asking for help — it transforms my mindset and softens my heart with each recitation.
It’s normal to be disappointed and anxious during uncertain times, but the good news is that there are things we can do to help our emotional state as we live through our current reality. One of those things is to help someone else.
The social distancing brought on by COVID-19 has forced me to examine and renegotiate what it really means to live in an atmosphere of growth. While growth previously included a heavy dose of travel and seeking new cultural experiences in my city, giving these things up doesn’t mean that I have to stop growing. I just need to get a little bit more creative.
When I consider Lent, the first question that comes to mind is “what should I give up?” Though abstaining from meat, chocolate, alcohol or one of life’s other pleasures certainly has the potential to make for a reflective 40 days, Lent is as much about giving as it is giving up.
While initiating a discussion about boundaries can be scary, awkward or vulnerable, the conversation may be more welcomed than you imagine, and either way, the end result is worth it.
We make hundreds of yes or no decisions daily, even if just to ourselves — no, I won’t stay in bed even though I kind of want to; yes, I’ll invite a new neighbor over for coffee — and good reasons for both our yeses and our nos can lead to wholeness and holiness. But looking back on my life, I see that a few yeses, which, like Mary’s, came in the face of uncertainty and even bafflement, have led to a life that I love.
