My apologies for being so late to post, Laura! Monday and Tuesday were crazy with catch up work from the ME Weekend. I'm unsure what a normal life is any more!
I am struck by the following from the Responsorial Psalm of today's readings. I do not get off on sack cloth and ashes nor even fasting. I see much more value in eating a hearty, healthy meal and using those calories to do productive work from which others may benefit. A contrite, humble heart and spirit is foundational for me.
R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.
For you are not pleased with sacrifices;should I offer a burnt offering,
you would not accept it.
My sacrifice, O God, is a contrite spirit;
a heart contrite and humbled,
O God, you will not spurn.
R. A heart contrite and humbled, O God, you will not spurn.
Being a servant to others is how I want to live my life, even as I 'lead' in the office or in Encounter, or in parenting. Listening when I'd rather be getting stuff done, spending time with a worried, but otherwise well patient offering reassurance, doing the mundane and not looking for glory, seeking and accepting forgiveness, letting go of hurts and not carrying a grudge is exemplary for me of a servant with a contrite heart. Working together with others on equal footing, pulling together for the common good, being a cheerleader rather than center stage and taking delight in lifting others up is living with a humble heart. I hate it when I see myself needing to be in the spotlight or find myself blaming when I should more appropriately be asking forgiveness. Striving to live with a contrite and humble heart, is quiet, simple everyday living. It is not as demonstrative as sack cloth and ashes, but it is where I'd rather be.
Love,
MOM
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