Chapter 3: Calling the community together for consultation (paragraphs 2-3)
Such an ideal can be achieved only if everyone duly conforms to the authority of the Rule and no one gives way to self-will by deviating from it. (From para. 2 of Ch. 3 of Saint Benedict's Rule, trans. by Patrick Barry, OSB, 1997.)
These words call me to re-commit myself to the authority of the Rule, that ancient sixth-century guide for rustic Italian monks living radically in the midst of political and cultural chaos. The authority of the Rule for me, lies in its potency as a living document, one that can be made real in my life, about what is required to transform the ego, by loving and living with others, by seeking God.
“It is a spiritual axiom,” the Twelve Steppers tell me, “that whenever I am disturbed there is something the matter with me.” Stilling my heart and my chattering, arrogant mind in twice-daily meditation coupled with good spiritual direction helps me find You in any confusion. Connecting and re-connecting with You moves me through and beyond any disturbance.
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