self

"...in The Little Flowers of St. Francis, a story is told about how francis taught brother leo the meaning of perfect joy. as the two walked together in the rain and bitter cold, francis reminded leo of all the things that the world - believed would bring joy, adding each time 'perfect joy is not in that'. finally in exasperation brother leo asked 'i beg you in god's name tell me where perfect joy is', whereupon francis began enumerating the most humiliating, self-abasing things he could imagine, adding each time "oh brother leo, write that perfect joy is there.'

to explain and conclude the matter he told brother leo, "above all the graces and gifts of the holy spirit, which christ gives to his friends is that of conquering one's self and willingly enduring sufferings , insults, humiliations, and hardships for the love of christ."


things i've learned in the past few weeks
days
minutes...

when i find myself in a place i have no business being,
i'm going to listen to god the first time he tells me to leave.

tough love
true love

self righteousness
humbleness

identity
shame

outspoken
solitude

discipline
freedom

brokenness
peace

forgiveness
mercy

redemption
grace