Hindsight is 20/20
View of the Rocky Mountains through the library windows at the Jesuit high school where I worked for twelve years.
A Thought to Begin
“Above all, trust in the slow work of God.”
—Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, SJ, “Patient Trust”
Scripture
“We know that all things work for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.”
Reflection
I am sure you have heard the saying that hindsight is 20/20.
There have been many times in my life when I could not understand what God was doing or where He was leading me. It was only later—after spending time reflecting, discerning, and praying—that I began to recognize His hand at work in my life.
One of those times was when I went back to work as my children were reaching high school age.
I saw that the Jesuit high school where my twins had just started was looking for a library assistant. Even though I had no experience in library science, I went ahead and applied. To my surprise, I got an interview.
I felt it was a good sign when I walked into the school and heard my name being shouted from across the hall.
“Mrs. Whitley, what are you doing here?”
It was one of the girls from my parish. She ran over and welcomed me with a big hug.
That same welcoming love continued to embrace me throughout the next twelve years as I worked at the Jesuit high school.
It was there that I learned the true meaning of cura personalis, the Ignatian term for care of the whole person. I experienced that care firsthand. Through the love and care of those around me, God gave me countless opportunities to experience His love—and to share that same love with others.
It was also there that my own faith life continued to grow. I was given the opportunity to attend Mass regularly. As a school community, we stopped four times each day to pray, including an afternoon Examen. I came to know and understand Ignatian spirituality more deeply, especially the practice of finding God in all people and in all things.
The opportunities I received to grow in so many areas of my life were incredible.
Even then, I knew how fortunate I was to be surrounded by such wonderful coworkers, students, and families who were filled with faith.
What I could not have known was where those twelve years would eventually lead me.
Looking back now, I can see that through every prayer, every relationship, and every opportunity to grow, God was quietly preparing my heart for Choose Joy Always.
Something to Think About…
What do you think God is preparing your heart for?
Can you even imagine?