Re(1): discontent

Jean,

There is practical wisdom in your words. Your insights interest me and remind me of the concept monasteries use in their operations. While I am not a monastic, I find it noteworthy that these communities evenly divide the time spend by each monk: each spends an equal amount of time working with his hands (scrubbing dishes, peeling potatoes, working in the garden) and sharpening his mind (via study, contemplation, and prayer). This would suggest to me that these time-honored traditions have been established on a form of wisdom: that the balanced life needs a blend of both. Both are necessary, both reflect aspects of God's image and character. I also like and agree with your summation: the only way to find contentment is through a life devoted to the Triune God, whether in word, thought, or deed.

Yes, we will likely have a preference or tendency toward either thinking or doing, but in the area that we lack, we need to cultivate more carefully. For instance, I find that intensive physical labor can be a wonderful cure for brooding thoughts turned destructively inward on themselves. Yet there is also much to be said about engaging the mind before speech or action. And when push comes to shove, we can return to our specialties to aid each other, lending the balance you suggest: I can hammer out ideas, laying down blueprints; you can lay out boards, hammering down nails: both are required for the building of the kingdom. ;) Thanks for sharing, Jean.

God bless,
Eric

• Re (1): discontent - By loyaute February 23, 2003 at 11:03:52 PM
  • Re (2): discontent - By Jean February 24, 2003 at 06:58:36 AM
    • Re (3): discontent - By loyaute February 24, 2003 at 10:57:16 AM
      • Re (4): discontent - By jean February 24, 2003 at 04:11:33 PM
  • Re (2): discontent - By dale February 28, 2003 at 09:19:06 AM
    • Re (3): discontent - By Eric February 28, 2003 at 08:07:42 PM
      • Re (5): discontent - By dale March 1, 2003 at 10:28:29 AM