In the last months of her life St. Therese of the Child Jesus wrote, "Now I know that true charity consists in bearing all my neighbor's defects, in not being surprised at mistakes, but in being edified at the smallest virtues" (St. 10).How often do we focus on the imperfections in others and then "pick a little, talk a little" (from The Music Man) about them to others or criticize people to their faces? Wouldn't it be better to develop the habit of looking for something to praise and imitate in them? It's just a change in orientation but it can transform the sourness of life into sweetness and make us more humble and pleasing to God, don't you think?
I fall short too and also have the bad habit of picking on my own imperfections rather than focusing on the good!
ReplyDeleteYes, the picking can be inward, too, and it reinforces a sense of worthlessness. That focus is directed at self rather than Christ. I got a big lecture from a spiritual director for doing just this. His telling me to focus on Christ freed me and allowed me to hear Jesus better. The devil has so many subtle ways to undermine us by making suggestions that get us off track.
ReplyDeleteYes, I do. It is great freshness to my perspective. Thank you, Barb!
ReplyDeleteYes, I do. It is great freshness to my perspective. Thank you, Barb!
ReplyDeleteAmen!
ReplyDeleteThis is a great post, and ironically (or inspired!) a theme that I have been seeing lately. Perhaps the Lord is trying to give me a hint!
ReplyDeleteGod Bless you.