We completed our study and discussion about the Obstacles to Joy. In that study, we learned that there are indeed obstacles, but it is how we approach these obstacles, that may lead us to hope and joy even in these situations. For example, the author, Douglas Abrams, wrote, "When I asked him [the Archbishop] what they would say to those who were caught in such despair [as the attacks in Paris,] he replied, "Yes, we do have setbacks, but you must keep everything in perspective. The world is getting better. Think about the rights of women or how slavery was considered morally justified a few hundred years ago. It takes time. We are growing and learning how to be compassionate, how to be caring, how to be human."
Lama, Dalai. The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World (p. 117-118). Penguin Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.
Now, we begin our consideration of the Eight Pillars of Joy. This requires a change of our
perspective. For it is how we perceive events that can lead us to be happy or sad. How we feel and act has the possibility to change our actions, which may also change the world about us. Through that lens, we will consider the first Pillar of Joy: Humility. Often, those who are humble, are perceived as weak or insecure. Yet, it takes a very secure person to be humble, especially when being confronted by an arrogant person. We will see how the Dalai Lama and the Archbishop find Joy in Humility. Are we able to do the same?
Lama, Dalai. The Book of Joy: Lasting Happiness in a Changing World (p. 162). Penguin Publishing Group. Kindle Edition.
Since I
post this study on Face Book as well as the St Jerome's website, https://www.saintjeromeschama.com/, I invite comments and questions from any of you who are not able to be physically with us, but find this study meaningful and would like to be a part of it. Please feel free to contact me at [email protected]
Bless you all,
Fr Colin Kelly
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