BEFRIENDER THOUGHTS

I read an article recently that spoke of our need for a context in which to process our hardships and sufferings. Probably all societies had their traditional spiritual stories and beliefs that gave suffering people a place to take their pain and make some sense of it, and, at least, not feel totally alone and abandoned. The American Indians, for example, had their beliefs about the Great Spirit and the power of their ancestors. “The Lion King” brings out the concept in an animated story. Probably it’s done best in human history with the Christian religion, where we have the martyrs and saints, and of course, the story of Jesus Christ. He absorbed the ultimate suffering because He recognized the greater story of God and Mankind. It helps a lot if we can see our experiences, with their joys and sorrows, in a wider context. Let’s see our lives, and the uncontrollable sufferings, as our “destiny”; to be lived as bravely and positively as we can. It’s what Abraham Lincoln did- go read up on his tragedies!

BEFRIENDER THOUGHTS: Encouraging Peacefulness

We all hope to develop strong faith and confidence in the Lord, no matter the circumstances.  Life can be harsh and painful.  At these times, it seems illogical that there is a loving God that we can depend on.  If we pray for faith, and then pray some more, and keep doing it, gradually it seeps into the marrow of our bones.  We come to be at peace with the paradox of God's Providence and yet our suffering.  Trust develops.  Faith is a tremendous gift.  It gets us through the roughest of times.  We start to see things from a heavenly viewpoint.

BEFRIENDER THOUGHTS

When I was in high school, one of our Dominican Sister teachers challenged us; it went something like this:  "Are you going to be a 'parasite' in life, or will you 'give back' to the society that has benefited you?"

For me, it was a profound statement, a "fork in the road".

We are tempted to be takers; after all, we are all a bit lazy and feel somewhat entitled.  It's good to ponder how our ancestors cleared the trees, built the roads and bridges, established hospitals and churches, and organized governing structures.  Commerce has been established that satisfies our needs for food, shelter, communication, entertainment, clothing, and many other good things.  Much of their work was back-breaking and very sweaty.

Can we "give back" by taking good care of what we have inherited, and improving it as we can?  Can we remind our youth that our world, with all its comforts and conveniences, didn't just drop from the sky?

And of course, it's imperative that we try to make our descendants aware of the spiritual wisdom, values and teachings that have been passed down to us from saintly people who have lived before us.  Like the teacher I quoted!

BEFRIENDER THOUGHTS

As we move along in life and ministry, we are becoming more and more aware of the tremendous advantages of faith in dealing with the difficulties of life.  It's fairly easy to rely on our own abilities in our youth, but aging brings us face to face with our human frailties.  Knowing that the Lord is walking with us makes all the difference.  Mentally.  Emotionally.  Spiritually.  Even physically.

Faith implies that there is purpose to our lives, which includes sufferings.  When we know our struggles are not for naught, but part of our connection to the divine scheme of things, we can move forward much more confidently, even with spurts of joy amidst it all.  Purpose makes all the difference.

BEFRIENDER TEACHINGS

One of the most helpful teachings of the Ministry Program is the concept of “Aging Into the Light.”

We all know that we face death. One of the more interesting things about this life is how we try to avoid that fact-just don’t think about it. Or maybe try ridiculous attempts to deny the reaper his due-desperately seeking “stay young” measures to attempt to freeze the calendar. That approach can be called “Aging into the Darkness.” It can be characterized by anger, hopelessness, and regrets. One might have a gnawing feeling of dissatisfaction.

We can also “Age into the Light”-a positive approach. It assumes meaning in life, and trust in the future. We minimize life’s difficulties and losses, and have confidence that we can draw closer to the Creator through it all. We emulate St. Paul, who had unbelievable suffering and still found joy. We concentrate on forming loving relationships with God and humans, forgiving, working to attain virtues.

The gradual loss of our physical and mental abilities can help us move from the attractions of this world to be ready to melt our souls into eternity.

 

BEFRIENDER INSIGHTS

Often we say things like, "At the end of the day, it's what's left after the bills are paid."  Or, "At the end of the day, it's who wins the game."

Now let's consider what we have in our mental basket "at the end of the day."

As our head settles in the pillow, can we ponder the day's events?  What stands out?  Were there joyful moments?  Any sad moments?  How did I respond when someone interrupted my plans?

Sometimes we are surprised how well we respond or handle situations.  Other times, we see our impatience and even our spitefulness.

Can we allow the Holy Spirit  to help us to see things in their true light and grow from them?  It's a good bedtime prayer.