Spiritual Balance

  

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I caught my foot on something last weekend and nearly fell over backwards. Although I avoided a near-catastrophic injury, I wrenched something in my hip. It seemed to portend a sustained period of time in which to recover. Much to my surprise, I regained my equilibrium quickly and was thus able to resume walking and a dance class within a few days. I attribute it, at least in part, to the strength I have built in my legs and hips through exercising on a regular basis. I also believe I caught myself due to the balancing moves that come with dancing twice a week.

There is a nice parallel between the strength and stamina built in the body through physical workouts with that of the soul. I am often asked to speak to groups of catechists, teachers, pastoral leaders, and parents on the theme of spiritual balance. It’s a clear need in a world that seems perpetually off-kilter. When delving into spiritual practices, it’s always helpful to study the work of the “masters” – contemplative women and men who exemplify centeredness. Figures like Thomas Merton, Teresa of Avila, Francis of Assisi, and Julian of Norwich come to mind. They are a bit like those toys with weighted bottoms that always spring back to an upright position despite the punches thrown at them. What keeps these spiritual role models grounded is the habits they formed through daily regimens and routines. Merton spent ample time working outdoors and finding grace in the ordinary routine of monastic life. Teresa and Julian were both recipients of mystical visions, but found grace in humor and in listening to the needs and concerns of others. Francis devoted his life to the poor, but reveled in the grandeur of nature.

“Practice makes perfect.” It’s not hard to see how true this is for the artist, the musician, and the athlete. How about the spiritual practitioner? What sort of practices might strengthen us and keep us upright, despite the slip-ups that are part of our day-to-day lives? There are the obvious ones – daily prayer and weekly participation in worship - as well as the nourishment that comes with inspirational reading, sharing time with those we love, and giving generously to those in need. No matter what soul-full activities we take on, the important thing is to do them on a regular basis. That way, no matter which direction we fall, we find ourselves with enough flexibility and grace to bounce back into place.

Bright Ideas

• Read about the life of Saint Teresa of Avila. What sort of things threw her off balance? How did she learn to stay grounded in her faith?

• Download a list of spiritual practices and use them with your family or class as a way to establish a balanced way of life.

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