Lots of people hate driving but I don’t. I find it great for my meditative meanderings. And the cruelty of kindness was a thought stirring in my brain.

I had been toying with the idea of kindness. And is there such a thing as the cruelty of kindness for Christians?

Yes, that truly hit me – why not write a post on how kindness can be cruel, how it can even kill.

A vehicular meditation with a twist, huh?

In other words, well-meaning, or well-intentioned people can actually harm others with misplaced kindness, including Christians.

Similarly, scripture has something to say about this. Misplaced compassion can not only undermine someone or be cruel. It can be downright spiritually harmful.

Misunderstanding kindness and God disciplines

So what about acts of kindness – those perceived to be so – which can harm? And I’m not talking about someone who pretends to be kind while having ulterior motives.

I’m talking about well-meaning people, even our loved ones.

Take the overweight person who is continually offered unhealthy and weight-gaining food. There’s also the well-intentioned kindness of seconds at mealtimes, too. Even though they might protest, the well-intentioned feeder usually wins out.

And becoming fat doesn’t stop there. There’s a host of health issues that help them die prematurely: heart disease, a stroke, cancer to name but the obvious.

But before that happens they develop other unpleasant health problems like aching joints.

And what about the morbidly obese person who can’t leave their own home. Who do you think keeps feeding them the unhealthy food which helps them remain trapped in a body of fat? And they continue to do so as the person grows larger and unhealthier each day?

Do you see the dilemma?

When being kind, Christians are meant to treat others as God would. But would God enable somebody to harm their physical, mental, or spiritual health?

And doesn’t He also challenge and correct us when He knows it’s for our good? Doesn’t he discipline us so that we can share and grow in his holiness?

It is for discipline that you have to endure. God is treating you as sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline… but he disciplines us for our good, that we may share his holiness. For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant; later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. (Heb 12:7-11).

No cruelty of kindness here!

The power of God’s kindness- dynamic grace

So kindness is more than fuzzy feelings or mere sentimentality.

We show true kindness when we help others refrain from actions that are sinful or harmful by admonishing them with compassion.

The flip side is – we’re being cruel to be kind when we correct others’ behavior.

Now, back to the previous example of the person enabled to eat themselves into obesity.

That behavior leads to a slow downward spiral of misery. And it ends where? The grave, that’s where.

Did their loved ones slowly murder them  –  intent on killing them? Of course not, but they enabled and helped their loved one meet an early death. This is an extreme example, granted, but it illustrates the point.

And it clearly demonstrates their kindness as passivity and ineffectual.

However, the truth of God’s kindness is something powerful and active.

For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another. But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared… (Titus 3:3-4).

Consider what is being said here. Disobedience and following others in this is futile, as is wanting to covet what they have.

But what has this to do with kindness?

Look at what is said next: But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared. Bam! The evils of disobedience are pummeled and overcome by Christ’s redeeming death and resurrection.

That’s the power of God!

And it’s stronger than death.

Let’s practice kindness with this in mind. The Christian carries power with their words and actions, whether offering a comforting word or admonishing another. Because when done with Christian compassion, the grace and power of God is free to act.

Is there a balance between kindness and cruelty?

There are also other ways to kill with kindness. I once behaved badly, hurt a dear friend of mine. The fault was entirely mine. No matter how much I tried to make it up to him afterward, I knew our friendship would never be the same.

While I was stewing over what happened, who do you think supported me in my lies?

You got it: most of my friends. They sympathized saying I was right to feel that way. And a few also took me out for some drinks to help cheer me up.

There were only two brutally honest friends. They were the ones who helped me see the wrong I had done and the hurt I’d caused. Thankfully, it gave me the psycho-emotional shake I needed to reflect on my sinful behavior.

Shortly afterward, I repented, went to my friend, cap in hand, and asked for his forgiveness. I cried a great deal before I went to see him, while I was with him and several times afterward. I was so shocked and sorry for what I’d done, now that reality had hit home.

If it hadn’t been for those two friends, I would have remained in my lies. I would have had the excuses and self-justification to nurse the pseudo-harm inside. Bitterness could have gnawed away at my soul. And we all know bitterness doesn’t remain unbiased. It has a way of creeping into all our thinking and all our relationships.

In time, it erodes happiness and destroys peace of mind.

Though my other friends meant well, it was their misplaced kindness that contributed to my anger, sinfulness and unbridled ego. They didn’t like to see me hurting, so they tried to help and comfort me, though in an unhealthy way.

Truthful kindness – it’ll set you free!

The real kindness, however, helped me confront my wrongdoing. I saw the truth of the matter and, as St. John says:

the truth will set you free (Jn 8:32).

It humbled me, seared my ego, but as a result, I now try to reflect before I speak. I also explore a person’s actions and motives instead of assuming the worst about them.

Likewise, kindness is not some fuzzy-wuzzy quality we should use for a feel-good factor. Integrity and truth should rule our use of kindness whilst rooting it in compassion. Our emotions must not govern it like the lapping of the sea, the ebb and flow of the tides.

After all, our emotions come and go, are not fixed, not solid. But truth, integrity, and compassion are, and they are long-lasting. So, is it not better to tell each other the truth? We can still do that in a kind and compassionate way, can’t we?

The cruelty of kindness – a conclusion

As Christians, we like to believe we are kind and compassionate. But we can get confused when it comes to understanding and showing it appropriately. That’s why it’s important to know when well-intentioned kindness is more to do with sentimentality so we can avoid it.

We don’t want to cause others harm in this way.

Knowing truth’s power can be kind, helpful, and liberating in the telling encourages us to admonish others with love if it is needed.

Being honest and compassionate in telling someone the truth can be of great benefit to them. Even if it’s uncomfortable to do so.

Whatever we do, we mustn’t allow misplaced kindness to rear its ugly head.  We mustn’t allow our emotions to run the show. Though this can be challenging, sometimes the best form of kindness is to the truth.

And all that from a vehicular meditation!

Bible Verses about kindness

(no cruelty of kindness here!)

Below are several Bible verses for you to meditate on concerning true kindness, love and compassion:

Everyone question’s their existence and reason for being here. We all need to find and live our life’s purpose if getting up every morning means anything.

Our life’s purpose concerns our career, family life, and place in society. It can be different for everyone, though, and can encompass several of these factors. It can also change during life’s journey.

We do not stay static as human beings. Life molds and changes us, and hopefully for the better.

But living at that level alone will at some point leave us wondering what it’s all about.

Our lives and the meaning and purpose of living has to be rooted in Jesus Christ. Without Him, our existence pertains merely to this world and closes us off to eternity.

How do I know my purpose in Christ?

People tend to come to a fork in the road of life before they reflect on their life’s purpose. Perhaps some trauma or sickness helps raise the necessary and associated questions, too.

In any event, we all come to ask:

• What is life all about?

• How do I find meaning in my life?

• What should I do with my life?

• How can I find self-fulfillment?

Though normal, asking these kinds of questions also concerns a sense of belonging. We all want to fit in while seeking true and lasting meaning in our lives. Also, we want a tribe to belong to, a place where we are safe and can grow.

But our sense of belonging is found in Christ Jesus. He is both true God and true man. Didn’t he say:

I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. (Jn 15:5)?

When we live a life separate from Him, trouble is sure to follow. That includes questioning our existence and whether we fit in or not.

And, as an aside – if we’re true followers of Christ, we’re not going to fit into the world. He didn’t, so neither are we.

If we’re asking the questions laid out above, perhaps we need to re-evaluate our relationship with the good Lord.

How do I fully give my life to Christ?

Asking if what we do in life is important or not could miss the mark and affect our mental health. And centering on what we should or should not be doing can confuse and depress us.

This is also a task-orientated approach which means it’s all too easy to perceive one’s life purpose through that lens.

It’s healthier firstly to be in a good relationship with who we are as individuals. And it is better to have this relationship in the here and now. Let’s not dwell on the past or worry about the future. This only distracts and worries us.

But we have to remember, we cannot be in a good relationship with ourselves as self-sufficient beings. We are called to be in a right relationship with God first, love Him first. The grace of God can only flow freely in and through us if this is our approach – putting God at the center.

It follows that we discover our identity in Him and become able to fully give ourselves to Him with the help of His grace won for us by Christ Jesus.

Grace accepted and acted upon when living our lives in Christ helps us find a deeper and lasting meaning.  It’s only through Him that we can be at peace with ourselves as individuals and with others.

This is by far more important than what we do for a living or how we relate to others. And these only have real meaning when we operate from a healthy self-relationship flowing from our life in Christ.

And since Christ Jesus is alive, so will we be too. As He said:

I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full (Jn 10:10).

Finding your purpose in God and service of others

It follows that the meaning and purpose we find in answering the following questions are what’s better for our spiritual and wellbeing and identity:

• How do I relate to myself in the light of Christ?

• Do I love myself as Christ would have me love myself?

• What gifts do I have to use in the service of God and His people?

• What passions in life do I have that I can use to help others?

In this way, we discover true meaning comes from our self-relationship that is rooted in God. We also discover that it has to move outward from ourselves into the world. In other words, we’re to find meaning in our spiritual lives by being of service to God and His people.

Likewise, what interests and helps us grow as human beings can be used to help and serve others.

Research shows that when we consistently help others our own mental and physical wellbeing improves. And so, our purpose is connected to meaningful and satisfying work and relationships.

That means we can’t discover and live out our purpose in isolation.

And again, that’s okay at a human level, but for it to have spiritual and eternal value, God has to be at the center of it all.

Discovering your God-given purpose – putting Him at the center

Concentrating on a self-relationship when considering our life’s vocation or who we are as human beings are very limiting, to say the least. And they will lead to self-destructive decisions and life patterns if God is excluded.

Why?

Because we are placing ourselves at the center of life and not God from whom we come and to whom we will hopefully return.

And as scripture says:

For in him we live and move and have our being (Acts 17:28).

Also, let’s not place too much value on what we do or how much money we earn. That isn’t helpful either. We’ll be left unsatisfied and focussing on the likes of wanting more money, and more material belongings.

In other words, a self-relationship and an unhealthy one at that results in being unrealistic, egotistical, and self-seeking.

And we’re more liable to allow our sinful, wounded or immature self to run the show.

It’s not a good idea to let this happen. We don’t want this blinding us to our true life’s purpose of service – whether it is part of our career or helping out a neighbor or friend.

And of course, our service is to have God at the center. It only has meaning, depth, and is carried into eternal life if our love and service starts and ends with God.

Also, service has to be rooted in God’s will. Divorcing our will from His distorts and weakens our motives and reasons for serving others.

We will literally look for what we can get out of it instead of trying to benefit our neighbor.

God has a purpose for everything – including everyday living

The essence of our life’s purpose united to God concerns what we do and how we behave, that is, living a daily routine.

No matter if it’s brushing our teeth, making the bed, preparing and eating meals – we can do this with purpose. It helps us realize our self-worth and respect our human dignity as a child of God.

We can use such actions to foster an attitude of gratitude towards God. And when tasks are difficult, we can make of them a sacrifice, offering them to God for the good of others. That could include the Holy Souls in Purgatory, those dying, priests and religious, a family member, and on and on.

Such attitudes and actions help us relate well to ourselves and become divinized. And they’re related to how we can contribute to society.

If we relate well to ourselves through a fruitful response to grace, we’ll relate well to others. And so, as social beings, we can recognize our gifts and contribute to the world.

Additionally, it’s the simple things that are often the most meaningful:

• Helping out friends
• Having a smile ready for a passing stranger
• Calling in on an elderly neighbor or relative
• Taking the dog for a walk

These kinds of activities further our sense of purpose every day while living as Christ would have us.

Wrapping it up

We all wonder about the meaning of life and what our life’s purpose is. But it’s unhealthy for us to be selfish, chasing money or wanting only what we want from our job or relationships.

We can only find happiness in relating healthily to ourselves by having God at the center of our lives. This is the springboard from which we meaningfully contribute to society and are of service.

Service is how we move away from sin, selfishness, and ego towards a life of self-giving which divinizes us and makes us fit for Heaven.

It also brings us happiness that is long-lasting since it started with relating to ourselves aright in Christ. And it leaves us free to relate to our family, friends, and colleagues aright since we find purpose and meaning in serving them.

Bible verses about living life with purpose

Here are five Bible verses for you to meditate on concerning living life’s purpose

Genesis 1.1 – In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

Ecclesiastes 6.12 – For who knows what is good for a person in life, during the few and meaningless days they pass through like a shadow? Who can tell them what will happen under the sun after they are gone?

John 10.10 – The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

John 14.7 –  Jesus answered “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me”

Matthew 6.33 – But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.

Have you ever been at the receiving end of another’s gossiping tongue? Knowing others have gossiped about you hurts, doesn’t it?

Everyone loves an old chinwag. After all, human beings are social beings and need to connect. But gossiping about others is not a healthy and productive way to cement or heal relationships when they have gone awry.

It’s also sinful behavior that can mushroom into a bad habit that is difficult to shake off.

Why People Gossip

To stop gossiping about others, it’s important to understand why you do it. After all, there’s a feel-good factor when gossiping. It’s easy to get a kick out of it.

The human ego is at work with this unhealthy blathering. It’s a way to:

• Feel justified when aggrieved
• Release tension and fear of a person
• Isolate others, and so can make you feel powerful
• Connect with others and feel part of the group
• Share how you’re feeling and seek support
• Express envy about others
• Relieve boredom since gossiping easily arouses interest

Not all the reasons for gossiping are negative. But it’s gossiping itself which can be harmful or damaging. You only have to ask those who’ve been at the receiving end.

In the workplace, it can be responsible for heightened stress. This results in lessened productivity and higher rates of sick leave.

It can affect people’s mental health.

And it demonstrates the need for the gossiper to develop a more loving and forgiving heart. St. Paul also tells us:

“But shun profane and idle babblings, for they will increase to more ungodliness. And their message will spread like cancer.” 2 Tim 2:16-17

Let’s explore the gossiper further.

How Harmful Is Gossiping to the Gossiper?

You could argue that gossiping is harmful only if the person being discussed finds out. But it’s not only the targeted individual who is affected. It affects the person initiating the tittle-tattle and those participating, too.

Frankly, gossiping’s:

• A waste of energy
• A waste of time
• Guilt inducing
• Rumor spreading
• Slander mongering
• Ruining someone’s reputation

As St. James puts it:

“Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. Even so, the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles!” James 3:4-5.

And Worse Again

One of the worst results for the gossiper is the growth of self-delusion. It can give them a sense of self-justification when they’re in the wrong. Also, it’s easy to project their faults onto others.

Likewise, it can fill them with a deluded sense of self-importance.

And the worst of all mentalities which can develop is the victim mentality. And poor me is developing at the expense of someone else’s reputation.

It’s worse again if this repeated behavior results in bitterness of heart.

Incidentally, this can be further entrenched.

How?

The participants of the chin-wagging might distance themselves from the initiator. And they could do this if they decide the gossiper’s malicious or untrustworthy.

Moreover, everyone feeds their ego in different ways. Gossiping’s one way which is harmful to mental health. Both the dispenser, those participating, and those at the receiving end are at risk.

And a common result is suspicion and mistrust among those involved. The victim won’t trust the gossiper or the participants. And the participants could wonder if they’ll be the next target of the gossiper.

As Scripture says:

“A whisperer separates the best of friends.” Proverbs 16:28.

Consider. People tend to view negative information about someone as more revealing. Even more so than what’s positive about them. And, unfortunately, people are better at remembering what’s negative.

So, is it any wonder doubt and suspicion can arise?

And Satan just loves it when it’s Christians that are divided amongst themselves.

The Difference between Toxic and Inoffensive Gossiping

Not all gossiping is necessarily bad.

It can help you establish boundaries when others have deviated from social norms. Likewise, it can clarify a person’s situation while developing a sense of belonging. It also helps orientate someone to their place in the scheme of things, such as in the workplace.

In such instances, this type of gossip is non-malicious. It’s not seeking to criticize someone or put them down. Neither does it attempt to isolate or control them.

Additionally, curiosity about other people’s lives can also be a reason. It’s not being used here as a weapon. And finding out information to know how to relate better to someone is normal.

The main issue revolves around the intention. Is the chit-chat intended to gain some kind of understanding of a person or event?

Or is it to feel superior to another?

The problem with intention is that it’s easily blurred. And human nature – as it is – can deceive you into thinking you’re doing something harmless.

A good examination of conscience and motives will help you discern this. Don’t just take your thoughts and actions for granted.

And just to remind you, no Christian should ever think of themselves as superior to others – period!

What to Learn from Gossiping

Gossiping is a measurement of the gossiper’s inner world. If you gossip, it’s a good exercise to look at what emotions are aroused. This produces the fruit of self-knowledge which is never a bad thing.

By being truthful with yourself, you come to understand yourself better. You can accept your sinful nature is at work.

It’s a humbling experience – of that there’s no doubt. And the need for repentance and conversion of heart becomes more apparent.

Matthew 12:34 says: “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”

This helps you see in what areas you need to grow for the person you’re gossiping about. In other words, how much love do you have for this person if you so easily talk about them behind their back.

But the good news is that recognizing your sinfulness helps you accept when you’re doing it. In turn, this helps you stop.

And repentance also helps us learn to love God and our neighbor more if acted upon.

Gossiping – The Hidden Emotions Are Reasons

Also, ask yourself if gossiping concerns a lot of fear, anxiety or insecurity. Accepting this can be the first step in dealing with the causes of gossiping.

And remember the adage: And the truth will set you free.

Respond well, and you will be free indeed.

Being truthful with yourself, you can come to understand yourself better and accept that your shadow self is at work. It’s a humbling experience to recognize and acknowledge what is happening when you gossip. But it can be a turning point in self-growth if acted upon constructively.

Perhaps it concerns a lot of fear, anxiety, or insecurity. Accepting this can be the first step in dealing with these causes of gossiping.

And remember what Jesus said:

“If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (Jn 8: 31-2).

So reflection, and acknowledgement of the truth brings about repentence.  Combine that with love of neighbor, you’ll find that truth will set you free.

How to Stop Toxic Gossiping

Self-reflection, examination of conscience and change of behavior help you interact more constructively with others.

Ask yourself:

• Would you want someone to say those things about you?
• How would you feel if you caught someone speaking to others about you that way?
• Do you know if your opinion is accurate?
• What business is it of yours anyway?

Again, it can be a humbling experience having to admit to yourself that you have acted shamefully. But this is also the first step to healing your thinking.

It will also foster a more loving attitude. Perhaps you can think of something kind to do for the person you had gossiped about. That can also help open you up to getting to know and understand them better, too.

It’s also important to avoid negative and critical people when you can. They have a way of disturbing or poisoning your soul. So stay away from them.

As St Paul says:

Do not be misled: “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Cor: 15:33).

Knowing when gossiping is wrong, try to change the subject. If you’re unable, say something positive about the intended target instead. That has a way of bringing gossip to a standstill.

The use of humor can also be employed to divert the conversation. You can also use the points being mentioned to jokingly turn it on the gossiper. It can help them to see the issue isn’t that important and isn’t worth complaining about.

They might even see the funny side and laugh along with you.

Wrapping It Up

Everyone loves to connect and chat. It’s healthy and important to do so. Gossiping is part of that connection in every culture. It’s a practice that is either damaging or harmless to all involved.

The problem lies with intention. But you can challenge yourself about the sin of gossiping. Use this as an opportunity to discover your motives and better understand your behavior. Having done this, you’re in a position to stop gossiping and help others do the same.

So don’t stay stuck in the vicious cycle of tittle-tattle which can damage your mental and spiritual health. Halt the drama, repent, and get real.

Gossiping and a Few Bible Verses about It

Here are a few more verses connected with gossiping. Reflect on them to help you avoid this corrosive and divisive use of the tongue.

• A perverse person stirs up conflict,
  and a gossip separates close friends (Prov 16:28).
• The one whose walk is blameless,
  who does what is righteous,
  who speaks the truth from their heart;
  whose tongue utters no slander,
  who does no wrong to a neighbor,
  and casts no slur on others (Psalm 15:2-3).
• A gossip betrays a confidence,
  but a trustworthy person keeps a secret (Prov 11:13).
• Whoever conceals hatred with lying lips
  and spreads slander is a fool (Prov 10:18).
• Keep your tongue from evil
  and your lips from telling lies (Ps 34:13).
• The soothing tongue is a tree of life,
  but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit (Prov 15:4).

Do you feel like you’re reliving the same day over and over instead of getting to live your dreams? And do you feel like you’re living a mind-numbing existence?

Moreover, life’s dreams offered the promises of happiness and fulfillment. But these are now left dumped on the shelf. The memory of them has fogged over with the passage of time.

And your dull daily routine buries them further into obscurity. It’s only the odd pang of regret that keeps their pulse beating.

But it isn’t too late to change or actualize your potential and live your dreams. There’s still time to get out of the rut and put those long-fingered plans into action. All it takes is believing that you’re worthy of change. And that you’ve got the right to make your dreams come true.

But you have to reclaim your mojo if you’re to smile at life’s purpose again. And you can’t do it alone. Invite Jesus into your life in a deeper way and allow Him to give you the necessary spiritual transfusion. Find meaning and purpose through Jesus and His will for you.

The Rut Withers Your Want for Living Your Dreams

While a daily routine has its merits, it can also drag you down. Routine by its nature is repetitive – doing the same things day in, day out. It can become staid and boring. This is true of home or work life. It can also include what you do in your free time if there’s not enough variety.

Paradoxically, your routine can be the fog that obscures your dreams when it’s supposed to create a secure space for you to explore them. So, your routine can hold you back.

It can also be due to a misunderstanding of what a routine is for. A routine is meant to:

• Offer a structure for daily living
• Provide stability
• Help you feel safe
• Help you develop good habits
• Leave you free to develop habits that help meet your goals

But a routine loses its meaning when you lose sight of why you’re doing it. Or if you experience it as boring and burdensome.

So make sure you review your routine. Reflect on it and you’ll rediscover its meaning. And you might find that all you need to do is tweak it here and there to inject more life into it. This is the first step to living your dreams.

You could argue that Jesus is at the center of your daily routine and that He is the most important person in your life, so why are you still having these difficulties? But then it’s okay to vary your routine if that’s what will help put pazazz back into your daily life and spiritual life, too.

Varying Your Routine Shakes Up Your Thinking

Your routine can create a dichotomy of thought. On the one hand, human beings don’t like change. Routine creates a comfort zone and so you can view change as threatening. But you also like variety – all things new.

So, solve this dichotomy by steering the middle ground. You don’t have to make drastic changes like changing your job or moving to another city. Just make small changes to your routine. And the quirkier the better.

Let those changes be fun. Here are a few examples:

• Talk to yourself in a funny voice when you feel out of sorts
• Brush your teeth while you’re in the shower
• Take a different route to work – a change of environment is stimulating
• If you drive, take public transport on occasion and read a book
• Invest in staff nights out together
• Take a mental health day and sleep till midday

One idea that’s lots of fun is buying a pet and sharing your dreams with it. Yes, talk to it and even read it a bedtime story.

Dogs especially love that kind of chat. And doing it in a funny pitched voice will have them wagging their tails and licking your face.

These kinds of actions help you free up your thinking and can open your mind to take risks. This is important if you want to believe you’re worth making changes for.

This is reminiscent of that L’Óreal advert. Its caption is: You’re worth it! But those words make it so memorable because they’re true. So jump in, and don’t be afraid. Your dreams will start to knock on the door of your mind and you’ll want to make the changes necessary to realize them.

And don’t get caught up in negative thinking. Stay positive and be determined to live out your dreams.

You can use your favorite Bible quotes to help with this. Stand in the Word of God and use them when discouraged, fearful, angry, confused – you get the picture.

I love the story of Jesus walking on the water, rebuking the wind, and restoring calm. ‘It is I, do not be afraid,’ Jesus said to the fearful Apostles (Jn 6:20). You could picture this event and pray those words of Jesus if afraid.

Reflecting Awakens Your Want for Living Your Dreams

When I reflected on my life several years back, I remembered my interest in writing from years ago. This was the beginning of my blog writing adventure. I’m part-time at the minute but hope to be full-time by the end of 2021.

Realizing how stagnant my life had become nudged me into reflecting and taking action. So being in a rut or feeling unfulfilled isn’t the enemy. It’s doing you a favor by providing you with the opportunity to reawaken your dreams and make them a reality.

And reawaken them with Jesus. Invite Him in and let Him guide you.

The only enemy here is yourself if you don’t go for it. And again, there’s no need to take drastic steps. Take time to make changes, but first with your routine.

When you’re feeling more alive in your routine the fog of boredom and sameness dissipates. Your dreams are then free to re-emerge and gladden your heart.

It’s then that you can develop a plan for bigger changes and be more able to consistently execute each part of it. Living your dreams will then become a reality.

And again, you don’t need to explore and realize this by yourself. Jesus wants you to explore and develop your potential. In fact, He expects you to use and develop your gifts which is part of you bringing your dreams to life.

Similarly, time spent in prayer and meditation can help with this. And any inspiration you may experience could well be the stirring of the Holy Spirit.

You know full well the importance of dreams in Sacred Scripture. How Daniel understood all manner of dreams and visions, how Saint Joseph was warned in a dream to save the Holy Family from Herod to name but two instances.

So allow God in and let Acts 2:17 come alive for you:

‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams.’

Yes, the Holy Spirit can also work in your daily life, amidst your daily routine and help influence your dreams, inspire you in them.

Feel like Taking the Plunge – Go for It!

If you’re one of the more ambitious types wondering what all the fuss is about, then make change more challenging for yourself.

Actively look for challenges. You’re probably the type of person who leaps first and looks second. It won’t take much to nudge you in the right direction. After yawning and stretching your way out of mundane living, you’ll be ready to live your dreams.

But, if you’re strong-headed you might tend to disregard suggestions. Allow me to make one all the same. It will propel you forward:

Find a mentor or an accountability partner.

You’ll find that a mentor or accountability partner will make suggestions. They’ll challenge and help you develop your skillset. Likewise, you could provide the same support for your accountability partner.

But where do you find one?

If the changes you’re making concern work, then involve a colleague. If it’s more to do with home life or your free time, then why not ask a Christian friend or family member.

The great thing is there’s no need for a life coach. So you don’t have to pay anyone. And if your mentor or accountability partner is a fellow Christian then you could pray together, asking the Lord’s guidance for the way ahead.

Changes Embraced to Live Your Dreams

Let’s be honest – in today’s world we like a lot of diversity. We easily tire of what we have and look for the next distraction, the new gadget, the latest technology.

Many of us now don’t stay in the same job all our working life the way our parents and grandparents did. And we not only change jobs more often, but we also make career shifts, too.

Often, though, it’s the uncomfortable emotions around change that you need to deal with. And even when you know that change is necessary, healthy and good for you. But you can use that to your advantage.

Reflect on the small changes you made to your routine and you’ll see how it boosts your confidence. In turn, this provides the necessary courage to make bigger changes. Fear then dissipates and you push forward to make your dreams come true.

And there’s no need to stay with the fear anyway. Accept that it’s there and tap into the excitement that change arouses. Let that be what fuels you. Let that reinforce your decision until the desired outcome is realized.

And remember Jesus words, too:

‘It is I, do not be afraid,” (Jn 6:20).

You are never alone!

And so…

We all get stuck in a rut sometimes. It can be hard to get out of, and fear, uncertainty and our limited thinking can hold us back.

But so can following a routine which has become boring and lost its meaning.

When your routine no longer serves you well, it’s time for a change. Likewise, varying your routine often makes a difference and helps add to the zest for life.

Remember to invite Jesus into the situation and don’t go it alone. Keep God’s will in mind while exploring and deciding on the changes you want or need to make.

Additionally, shaking up your routine and reflecting on life is helpful. Done together, they restore your mojo and reawaken your dreams. It is then you have the courage to make the changes you want in your life. It helps create space for you to live out your dreams.

Likewise, asking for guidance from the Holy Spirit can play a big part in this. He is the great shaker of houses, like at Pentecost. Let Him in shake and reawaken your dreams.

And the most important matter is not to stay stagnated or you’ll live a life of regret. So use the change in your daily routine to help awaken the necessary resolve to take charge of your dreams.

Take the plunge!

A new blog to help with the question: are you sick of being called a Catholic Leftist, or a rigid Traditionalist?

Do Leftists in the Church accuse you of being too conservative? Do Traditionalists say you’re either part of the false Church of Vatican II or too liberal.?

It’s all very sickening, isn’t it? That’s one of the big reasons why I’m starting this blog. As a result of feeling caught in the middle. And strange to say, I am in the middle. I’m a middle-of-the-road Catholic!

How to be a faithful Catholic is hard enough without all the labels and the confusion they bring.

I’m fed up with all this argy-bargy and don’t want to be a part of it and hope to keep out of any of the entangling politics which only seem to entrench people further in their opinions and attack of their fellow brothers and sisters in Christ. So, if you’re with me so far, read on…

How do you become a Catholic devoted to the truth?

If you’re anything like me, you just want to steer the middle course while adhering to the truth as left us by Jesus Christ and breathed on the Church by the Holy Spirit.

And I don’t consider myself a liberal or a traditionalist. I suppose I’m conservative in the sense of being faithful to the Magisterium of the Catholic Church. I take following Scripture and Tradition, The Catechism of the Catholic Church, and the writings of the Early Church Fathers as a solid, as what it means to be a faithful Catholic.

That also leads to being a devoted Catholic to my way of thinking. And this new blog will help you explore your own Catholic authenticity, help you rejoice in your faith.

Oh, and I can’t forget the papacy, too. What this present pope is up to confuses the heck out of me, but I pray for the man. No one, including the pope, is exempt from being a sinner and needs prayer like anyone else.

Oh, how to be a faithful Catholic and not bitch LOL!

A new blog – Catholic spiritual help

Anyhoo, I want to live the truth of my faith and witness that with love and compassion. 

I left the Church before because of all the division and downright nasty shit I witnessed among believers. But I’m back as of a year ago and want to journey and help people like me.

I also need to grow in my faith and am in much need of healing. So I want to learn from you. That’s part of what this new blog is also about. And I want us to accompany each other to the Father’s House.

I rejoiced when I heard them say, “Let us go to the house of the LORD.” (Ps122:1).

We can help nurture each other’s faith and be devoted Catholics, pleasing to Our Lord.

I also think it would be cool if Non-Catholics visit my site if for no other reason but to share with us. It would be great if some got an interest in the Catholic Church and would consider becoming one with us, but it’s not a requirement.

I love all followers of Jesus and I know several Protestants that are better examples of Christ’s love and mercy than what I am.

Oh, the irony of our age LOL!!!

A new blog – so correct me when I need it!

So come with me as we journey home to God’s Holy Heaven. The world is fraught with so much temptation, brokenness, noise, and distraction. We need to help each other to meander the debris of modernism and its false promises (I wonder who else makes false promises – sound familiar?).

I commit to you, with this new blog, to tell the truth, and if I make mistakes, that’s what they are – mistakes. It won’t be deliberate or an attempt to deceive. So point them out to me if you notice them, and let’s chat about it. I’ll correct any error if I’ve written it in blog posts or elsewhere on my website.

Whatever we do, let’s not argue or give more scandal.

The Church is awash with it and it’s heartbreaking. My Protestant friends tell me it’s fracturing them too in many ways. So, we’re all affected.

What should every Catholic own? – to live in the truth that is

I plan on talking about the Catholic faith in many different ways, including:

• Scripture
• The Catechism of the Catholic Church
• Our Blessed Mother Mary
• The Saints and Angels
• Various Catholic Spiritualities, e.gs. Benedictine and Carmelite
• Prayer and Meditation
• And loads More (I’m also open to ideas!)

So, get excited and check in regularly. I aim to post every week. If you subscribe for the free gift, I’ll have your email and will let you know each time I post. It’ll serve as a reminder of sorts.

A final word – don’t sweat it!

You can explore the topics here and be at peace. Know that how to be a faithful Catholic is possible in today’s world without having to think of yourself as a Leftist or a Traditionalist.

If you’re living the Catholic faith in a way that is pleasing to Jesus and will win Heaven for you, that’s what matters. Do God’s will, live the faith in obedience to God’s Word and the Magisterium and you won’t go far wrong.

Oops, you won’t go wrong at all!

Anyhoo, stay safe, and let’s keep each other in our prayers.

To your success,

Andy, The Angel Fella