There are people who see monastic life as being all about following rules.
The thing which makes Benedictine monks Benedictine is following Benedict’s Rule. They make lifelong vows to renounce certain actions and ways of behaving. It can appear that monastic life is focused on giving things up, committing not to do things. It almost feels like monastic life is intended to annihilate anything which might be enjoyable.
The monks I know are not defined by what they do not do. They are among the people with the most freedom I have ever met.
It is easy for us to think we gain freedom as we set aside restrictions and constraints on how we act. We look at all the options we have, all the paths open to us, and we feel free to go wherever we want. The challenge is focusing and living into our freedom.
The choices we make can lead us toward or away from our own true selves.
Monastic life is intended to give people the freedom they need to focus on becoming themselves. Commitments some of us see as restricting are designed to allow them to focus on their core values. The vows people take are not ultimately about repression or social control. They can serve as guard rails and sign posts to keep people on the paths they have chosen. People are free to pay attention and stay focused on exploring their higher priorities. What may sound like rules to us help people avoid being distracted by less essential concerns.
People who follow monastic life are committed to discovering the fruit it bears in them. They listen and reflect, seeking the deep freedom within themselves.
Where is our freedom taking us this week?
How will we live into our freedom today?
[Image by Osajus]
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