Our Christian tradition offers us the days of Advent as a chance to create a little more spaciousness within the busyness of our daily lives. Yes, Advent is a wonderful season, filled with the opportunity to take stock of what really matters. What matters more and more to me is the realization that, “all is one”. As Thomas Merton, the American Catholic writer, theologian and mystic points out, “Contemplative Living is living in relationship with oneself, God, others and nature free of the illusions of separateness.”
Recently, to witness to this oneness, I have been trying to focus on three pivotal movements which I characterize as focusing my attention, forming my intention and aligning my actions. I consider that these three facets of being and doing are not distinct or isolated from one another but are intertwined as three graced activities. My Advent resolution is to become more aware of the individuals and circumstances which surround me throughout my day, more directed in my purpose which I better define through my morning reflections and more intent on matching my purpose with my choices which I review as my day ends. Becoming intentionally more centred on these movements will hopefully serve to better ground me to re-enter the busyness of life with better clarity and compassion.
You too may wish to adopt focusing your attention, forming your intention and aligning your actions as your contemplative living practice.
Nancy Wales, CSJ