I’m contemplating this line from William Stafford’s poem, “Ask Me.” “Ask me whether what I have done is my life.” Parker Palmer, responds, “[These words] remind me of moments when it is clear – if I have eyes to see – that the life I am living is not the same as the life that wants to live in me.” God has written eternity in our hearts, Ecc 3:11, and I’ve come to think that as a soul having no end, this writing includes the time that is here and now. Discernment helps me distinguish between the lesser good and greater good. Because God is eternal, and good, what is written on the heart is a significant voice to be listened to when facing a major life decision that will impact self and others. While knowing our gifts and propensities is of utmost importance, in the big decisions it can be hard to see clearly. Rational wisdom has a role to play; examining the realities of our lives has a role to play. Both can only take us so far. “Ask Me,” implies a listener. In these situations, seeking the Godly, wise counsel of sacred community is a blessing. Seeking deep listeners able to ask questions to help you clarify your deep desires, life realities, God’s movements, and your life story are important at such crossroads. The listening ear asks questions about things we overlook, deem unimportant, or hold as too important in light of who God is or what His word says. It is difficult to see our own attachments. So long a part of us, it is as if these attachments seem wedded to us. But the listening ear of Godly wisdom can detect the places of our unfreedom, and with love, can help us have eyes to see. Who is the deep listener in your sacred community? Guest post: Niecy LoCricchio, spiritual director, retreat guide at thesoulcareplace.com; if you are interested in leaning into the practice of discernment, consider joining this Fall’s cohort in a 9-month companioned journey to immerse yourself in God’s love with the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises.

Posted by Anam Cara Abbey at 2023-07-13 13:30:02 UTC