By Winnie Bolton
I hear the word discernment on the theological formation level at Mount Angel Seminary often.
Some of my volunteer time is spent at the seminary so my exposure to that continual awareness is insightful growth for me.
Discernment gives rise to wisdom, the ability to look deeply into something and perceive distinction keenly with clarity.
Discernment in being aware of complexity and mystery. At its best is is being non-judgmental and at its best, listening to the holiness within.
Attuning into moments of great disharmony and conflict requires everything, every source of energy and insight so that in the midst of a struggle, we keep sight of who we truly are, who another is, and what we or they might need from one another at that moment.
In the past, we have not been educated to social imagination or compassion nor artistic discovery.
We have been educated to conformity and competitiveness.
Many wholesome messages are heard inside the doors of a church in nourishing us, bringing us peace, affirming the goodness residing within our hearts, we are enabled then to discern moral and ethical conduct.
Heading toward Christmas and another brand new year, here are some thoughts (a sort of new beginning) to fessing up and then cleaning up our own faults.
The search for wisdom is not as hard as one might think.
1. Bring complaints to the proper authority, not to the sympathetic ear.
2. Do not build yourself up by tearing another down.
3. Swallow your pride and ask for forgiveness.
4. If something needs to be done, do it.
5. Think of the common good before thinking of your own good.
6. Compliment any person who makes you jealous.
7. Do not absent yourself from the town or community you live nor set yourself apart from it.
These are just a few of the considerations expressed and encouraged around the grounds, classrooms, dorms and conversations on the seminary campus.
Becoming all that we are meant to be is definitely an inward journey.
The above “Seven Pearls of Wisdom” I selected from a speech given to the seminarian students by Monsignor Patrick Brennan about 11 years ago.
Its relevancy opened my heart with great admiration for the education these students are receiving. I’m so blessed to be part of the treasured environment at the Mount Angel Seminary.
