Elisabeth had been deeply hurt by someone who had betrayed her confidence. (which I'm sure we can all relate to). She vowed to be more careful in the future as to who she let into her heart.
I liked her expression of not wanting to be a "spiritual chatterer". She vowed "to pray, to act, to work, and to love".
She talks about a spiritual retreat- practicing penance and charity without being noticed. She feels like a "privileged child" because of all the graces and blessings God has bestowed upon her.
Elisabeth doesn't complain about her sufferings, but instead feels that they have made her life exceptional. She always puts others first.
Concerning this week's question: I have a certain family member who repeatedly says hurtful things. I've gotten to the point of my life when I choose to no longer allow myself to be a punching bag. So I tend to distance myself from that person. I love her very much and pray for her. I ask that God relieve the turmoil inside her that is obviously causing such negative behavior.
It is always interesting to see what others highlight that I did not. I always read the Weekly Post after I write mine.
ReplyDeleteI really like that you picked up on the betrayed confidence, spiritual chatterer, and privileged child topics. This chapter was so very rich.
I think the spiritual chatterer is an area of discussion. Elisabeth was surrounded by non-catholics as well as people that came to her for guidance. I think silent vs sharing (chatter) is an area for discernment because I have grown quite a bit just by having friends share their spiritual struggles and blessings. Pride and envy must all be avoided but there are times to share our blessings and struggles .... yet union with the Lord especially in prayer is not something one can easly share.
Blessings..
I have a problem with chatter. Elisabeth stressed silence a lot in this segment, but I always feel better after unloading on you and/or Elaine. God Bless everyone!
DeleteI can relate to the part about your family member. I am experiencing a lot of that with a couple of my children right now. I'll pray for you. Please pray for me. I have a tendency to cave in easily, but this time I am determined to no longer allow them to control my life.
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