Special Tools to Establish Stability in the Workplace - 10
As we proceed with our Special Tools, let's be sure to recognize that we do so in the Holy Season of Advent.
Recall that, in his Rule, St. Benedict provides us with "tools" that can help us foster stability in the workplace. Last time we mentioned the mysterious "omicron," claimed to be the latest variant spawned by the feared COVID virus that's got so many of our fellow humans cowering. Since last week, some easing up has occurred in the fear-mongering. It may be because there's no evidence that: a) this variant is particularly virulent; if anything, it may be rather mild and b) there's no evidence it even exists.
Yes, you read that right. Whether you have medical or scientific expertise, you can understand that there would be some sort of method or process that is used to identify viruses and bacteria. We all learned to observe bacteria using a microscope. Viruses such as COVID, though, apparently aren't all "seen" through a microscope. They're identified differently. While I can't explain how exactly that's done - and there are different methods used - it seems some claim this "omicron" hasn't been identified properly...which may mean it doesn't exist. So what about the symptoms some folks have had? Well, one theory goes, since all identified cases have been vaccinated individuals, such symptoms are the result of the vaccines they've received, not from any variance of the virus.
I don't know; but neither am I dismissing the theory. The fact is, too many lies have been spread around, not only related to the C-Virus, but in so many other areas of our lives. It's gotten to the point where you've got to take stock of what you know and don't know, then rely on what you know to help guide you through the ever-growing matrix of lies that - left unattended - will clog your brain and undermine your better judgment.
I know. It's hard to fathom that things have gotten to this point. But they have. The only consolation we Catholics might have here: The Father of Lies has always been up to fostering falsehoods in our world, beginning with the Garden of Eden. And history shows he's clever enough to keep the lies waxing and waning to keep us off guard. Now seems to be one of those waxing periods. It does seem that way, doesn't it?
This flood of lies and confusion can cause us to dance to the devil's tune if we're not careful. Among other things, we need to establish points of stability to help steady us in the face of his machinations. St. Benedict's Special Tools can provide some of those points of stability.
Today we continue to look at some of these tools. Let's see how we can apply these in the workplace. We'll see how St. Benedict's remarks can help us produce our best work in an atmosphere of stability, despite any problems and distractions we face, especially those coming at us these days. The stability that will come if we heed St. Benedict's advice will be a great aid in observing Advent faithfully, no matter how busy our workday, not matter how many problems and distractions we face.
We pick up today with the following "Tools of Good Works."
- Not to fulfill the desires of the flesh.
- To hate one's own will.
- Not to wish to be called holy before one is holy; but first to be holy, that one may more truly be called so.
These three promote personal sanctity. And personal sanctity may be the first and foremost source of stability in our lives. Correction: It is the first and foremost source of stability in our lives. So bringing these Tools to work with us will help us establish stability in the workplace. Each addresses one aspect of personal disorder. All together, they help us fight the self that keeps us at an unhealthy distance from God.
Our senses, left unmortified, release desires of the flesh that at the least distract us from pursuing our work with singular attention, at worst open the door to all sorts of sins that will weigh heavily on our conscience.
To quell one's will allows us to focus on the task at hand, not matter how boring or distasteful if may be. In my own work, these come up regularly. If my will had free reign, I'd avoid or drag out their completion. My work would be far less than perfect.
As for the third Tool - not wishing to be called holy - well, it's definitely not one I've ever needed to address. The very idea that I could wish to be called holy is laughable. However, were I ever to get anywhere near holy, this Tool will come in handy. If you, on the other hand, have advanced in your spiritual life beyond the early stages, this one may be just what you need to continue your struggle to be holy without the temptation to want some sort of acknowledgement.
Bolstering our personal sanctity should always be the primary focus of our life. The stability that comes with even the slightest advance in our spiritual life can help steady us, no matter how much the Father of Lies floods the world with destabilizing handiwork.
As we apply these special Tools, let's do so in the recollected spirit of this Holy Season of Advent.
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