This piece of advice came to me as I was disturbed by something that irked me as I was praying the Liturgy of the Hours. The tone of my voice actually became lower and I was a bit distracted in my prayers. However, as I reflected on what St. Teresa said I regained my composure and continued with my prayers focused on God’s presence in my heart.
This experience made me further reflect on the wisdom of this piece of advice.
Almost everyday we encounter problems or difficulties as we go about doing things for our living or for carrying out certain responsibilities entrusted to us. Sometimes we get worried or are disturbed when things happen which are not in accordance with our expectations. Somehow it affects our peace of mind.
A reading from the Vatican II Weekday Missal which dwells on the Veneration of Saints says: “Charity is the saints’ signature. For it is one talent they uniformly share. Nor do they mind whether or not their good works are appreciated. Saints squander their love on the undeserving and ungrateful. They ask for nothing, not even appreciation, in return.”
Meditating on this reading I now see the basic attitude of the saints which makes them undisturbed and remaining peaceful despite the troubles, problems, difficulties or sufferings that may cross their way.
Looking back at my past experiences, I realize that very often I got disturbed with feelings of resentment or vengeance when what I have done were not appreciated or when I was misunderstood and even became a victim of injustice.
The basic attitude, I believe, is simply to do things according to the will of God with all the love we can give and offer everything to Him. If with a clear conscience we have done this, then we do not have to worry about anything. Whatever others may do or think of us should not disturb us.
If, however, we are troubled by a guilty conscience, then we should take the necessary steps to be pardoned and reconciled with God and our fellowmen. This should bring us peace of mind and live in the grace of God.
by: Salvador "Buddy" Cagurangan
October 15, 2010
October 15, 2010
