Finding the way...

It's been a while since I have offered a reflection or an insight into my life on this forum, or I guess I should say on this online journal. There has not been time, nor inspiration lately. Yet I must admit that I have not been completely faithful to the things in my life that are of the greatest importance, and for that I am deeply sorry. Put the Lord first and the rest will fall into place. So I have learned over this past week.

There are always frustrations in grad school, but I have felt especially frustrated, especially "lost" in translation; however I have learned again, as our Lord has always so subtly and yet clearly reminded me, of the importance of prayer. Prayer has a centering effect, the action draws you to engage the Lord in relationship, to share with Him the deepest thoughts that have entered your mind, and upon leaving to realize that everything you do is for Him. This takes the pressure off, for the Lord wants us to do our best, but we know that He will love us regardless of the outcome. Should we find success, we know that He will be right there with us, joyful in our joy. Should we fall, he will be right there beside us, consoling and inspiring to get back up and try again.

It is easy to let things get out of perspective in this hectic life. Sometimes I wish I had more of an imposition of the contemplative life, but without our own decision-making, one does not just end up with a deep, contemplative life. It is practice and surrender, opening one's heart and mind to the Lord and not being afraid of what will come. Fear as I have reflected on many times is the paralysis of the human person; Pope John Paul II repeated the words of Jesus over and over to the world, "Be not afraid". Be not afraid because you can, be not afraid because you cannot, be not afraid because you will, be not afraid because you will not.

I have always loved the quote, "I can do all things through Him who gives me strength". And it is so true. I can endure translation. I can speak to the world, to students, parishioners, and Catholics alike, about prayer, life, hope, patience, love, and peace. For through the Lord's help I have come to experience them in my own life, and now I am charged with the privilege of sharing this with others. All who hear and heed the call of God are called to this mission. Let us go, without fear, and do God's work, in this world who so desperately needs what He has to give to those who come to Him.