There are
experiences in life which are inevitable. Experiences that outwardly equate to
loss; such as the death of a loved one. Although on the surface the appearance
may be of loss; a deeper look shows there is much that has been gained.
It is the very core
of our beliefs and faith that will reveal the inner strength to accept that
life can be very painful, but it is in the pain we are truly alive.
Sadly, there are
those who believe their pain is the only pain. They are not able to see that
others too experience a deep level of pain by virtue of the fact that life can
be tough.
The longer we
experience this thing called life, the more we understand that things can
change at any moment, forever transforming the course of our life.
We are free to either accept this change; or resist. It is in the acceptance we are more able to understand these shifts are what makes up the very essence of who we are and who we are to become.
It is when we are
able to step back and realize that as we are going through an experience, it is
likely many others have been through, are going through or will go through, a
similar experience.
Consider this, life
may not be so much about the experiences we have in our own little corner of
the world, but rather to grow to a level of compassion so deep that we can
truly empathize what another is going through in their darkest hour.
The truth is, life
will have pain. Pain is not a bad thing. It may be the very pain so many try to
avoid, that opens the space in our heart to be the person we are meant to be.
The experiences we
have are not always so much about us, but rather about learning a level of
love, compassion and giving that previously may not have been visible.
Love can transform
even the toughest situations from one of frustration, uncertainty and fear into
one in which we are guided as to what we are being called to be.
It is through
prayer and meditation we can create the space to “be” rather than “do”.
When life offers up
challenging times, this is a perfect time step back, sit quietly, and pray for
right actions. It is in asking for guidance that we are shown how to live and
love in ways we otherwise could not do.
Without asking for
guidance, one often stays in the ego rather than in heart. It has been said
that ego is Etching God Out.
It is easy to get
caught up in the activities of the day and believe we are in charge. This kind
of thinking likely comes from ego.
Could it be that our
life is not about being in charge, but of being of service? Although we will do
things that appear as if we are in charge, it may be those very things are
about the service we are giving.
If we simply sit quietly
and ask, “And how may I be of service today?” we will be given the answers in
so many ways.
It is in the
willingness to ask how we can be of service that our hearts are open. Open to
the gentleness that allows us to see that which we otherwise would be blind to if
we simply look at what is on the surface.
It is in the
ability to step outside of ourselves we are given the greatest gift of all; the
gift of love, compassion and service.
Regardless of what
is going on in life, there is a prayer that always puts life into perspective for
me.
It is the Prayer
of St. Francis. By taking a few moments to absorb the true meaning of
these words, one’s day is transformed to create a deeper meaning to life.
Regardless of one’s
religious or spiritual beliefs, the words can comfort; bring deeper meaning and
insight into virtually any situation.
Prayer of St.
Francis
Oh Lord make me an instrument of your peace
Where there is hatred bring your love
Where there is injury, pardon
Where there is doubt, bring your faith
Where there is despair, bring your hope
Where there is darkness, we will bring your light
Where there is sadness, feel a joy
Oh Divine Master, Grant that we
may not seek to be consoled ….as to console
To be understood as to understand
To be loved as to love
We are now your instruments…Be loving
For it is in giving that we receive
And pardoning that we are pardoned
And in dying to ourselves that we live
Oh Lord we are now instruments of your peace
Oh Lord we are now instruments of your peace
Oh Lord we are now instruments of your peace
Oh Lord we are now instruments of your peace
What a well written and timely post. I worked in a hospital for many years and saw grief and joy daily. It helped me to remember that hard things happen to everyone. It's all in how we respond to those challenges. The Prayer of St. Francis is ideal for any times of stress and worry. Thank you for sharing it.
Posted by: Lynne Klippel | October 29, 2009 at 09:23 AM
Hello Kathleen,
Great post, as always! As a matter of fact, my favorite part is as follows:
-> If we simply sit quietly and ask, "And how may I be of service today?" we will be given the answers in so many ways.
I must admit that it made a tremendous difference in my day. Thank you, dear one.
Kind regards,
Chantal
Posted by: Chantal Beaupré | October 29, 2009 at 09:26 AM