The Forge

LIfe is never really dull. There is always something to deal with or to get through. Life is filled with challenges. There is much to be thankful for, but sometimes we have to think deeply about why we should feel gratitude.

St. Bernard when talking about our lives, and especially about our inner experiences, how they constantly change, and in that we are challenged. Consolation, desolation, and all that is in-between put before us the need to choose, and to either grow towards being more loving human beings or to becoming more self-centered and manipulative.

These challenges are something that needs to be understood as one of the aspects of our lives that we should be grateful for.

This life in many ways is a forge, inner pressure pushes us to a crossroad where we can make our decision on how to respond. It is, as everyone knows, a difficult journey no matter what path is chosen.

The Mind-Of-Christ slowly grows and we began to see life and what it is about with new eyes. We see that our lives are a journey, and there is no real rest for anyone. Yet, we also find that being rooted in Christ Jesus does bring inner joy and real peace that is present even in the worst of times.

So, as hard as it can seem, our struggles, and yes our sufferings are gifts. Though when in the middle of it does not seem so. One of the graces of aging is that we can look back over the many dark valleys we have had to walk through. but in the end, came out more loving and compassionate: if we always sought to live out the will of God, and seeking to truly forgive and to let go of a past that wants to drag us down.

To embrace life and to be thankful takes patience and a deep all-inclusive trust in God. We learn that prayer is not about just 'asking' but about being in the Will-Of-God.

Prayer is not a luxury but a necessity, often overlooked by those who say that they love God. Our hearts and minds grow when we pray or are silent before God, as well as bringing all those in our tribe with us. Prayer allows us to pray for those we struggle with, perhaps even hate, but as long as we pray for them, our hearts or open to God's love, and healing will come.--Br.MD