While exploring a potential role on the Board of Directors at The Christophers, I found myself immersed in the profound insights of Father Jonathan Morris’s book, Light in the Darkness. His words prompted a deep introspection, urging me to confront a fundamental question: Am I doing everything out of love?
Inspired by Saint Augustine’s timeless plea, Father Morris guides readers on a journey of self-discovery through the pages of this enlightening book. Below is a brief summary of my experience.
Obligation Versus Intention
Father Morris’s message struck a chord within me as I reflected on the pervasive influence of obligation over heartfelt intention in our lives. How little we do out of love and how much we do out of obligation!
Like many of you, I had found myself drifting through daily routines. Once vibrant with anticipation, my career and life was overshadowed by disillusionment. What happened to the eagerness that once fueled my actions?
It’s Not What Happened That Matters
A lot had happened between the time I graduated from law school, started the firm now known as Third Ear Conflict Resolution, and purchased my first home. There had been much preparation and anticipation for these events I thought would make my life more meaningful. Excitedly, I imagined my apartment being filled with loved ones and joy. Instead, it was the scene of a rape and years of hiding in my work to avoid confronting the cause of my unhealthy relationships.
It’s What You Do About It
With the help of Light in the Darkness and several other resources, I peeled back the layers of neglect and disenfranchisement within my own life. The evidence was all around me:
- My home, once envisioned as a haven of happiness, now bore witness to pain and neglect.
- Time with loved ones had become routine and littered with multi-tasking.
- Pursuing symbols of success had become more important than taking care of what I had. I was the one who stopped doing things out of love.
A profound truth emerged. It was not external circumstances that caused my dissatisfaction as much as a loss of personal integrity.
“Art is the elimination of the unnecessary.” – Pablo Picasso
Faced with the crushing weight of the “shoulds” that lead to a cluttered calendar and life, I resolved to reclaim my power to love my life:
- Downsizing. I thrilled some less fortunate people with items I wasn’t showing love.
- Prioritizing. Over-obligated by promises I didn’t love, I came clean and helped find the resources the requestors needed.
- Exercising. A renewed love for my injured and aging body came from learning what it could do then, instead of holding it to 20-year-old standards.
As the pages of Light in the Darkness unfolded, Father Morris’s poignant insights served as a guiding light through life’s labyrinth. His book is as a testament to the transformative power of love, inspiring me to continue the journey of self-discovery and intentional living I am on today.
What are you doing today out of love?
Review of 48 DAYS TO THE WORK AND LIFE YOU LOVE by Dan Miller