Magnanimus

Today's post comes from some discernment of a chapter in Dean Brackley's book, "The Call To Discernment in Troubled Times". It is a book on the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises that takes the reader through these very useful spiritual disciplines. The chapter that this is drawn from is called, "Expanding the Soul". He has been leading the reader through the process of self-emptying in order to be in better and closer communication with G-d.

The word magnanimus (literally: great spirit) comes up in the chapter as a response to the great challenges of our time. Instead of the "shrinking violet" or "meek" approach, Brackley suggest that the idea of magnanimity be re-captured. Being great in spirit should not imply that one is overly prideful, rather, the greatness of spirit allows one to be humble, but to act decisively to combat injustice. To quote from the book page 109, "The great challenges of our time - poverty, the environment, war - should inspire humility, but also creativity and bold action. They cry out for large-minded generosity - that is, the magnanimity that springs from wholesome self-esteem. Without humility, we elbow others aside. But without magnanimity, we bury our talent in a napkin."

There is not a lot of this characteristic alive in the world today. Our world (primarily the "developed" part) is individualistically focused and out to get as much as possible for as long as possible - to "elbow others aside". They oppress and humiliate others in order to make themselves appear more powerful and successful. This happens in the Church as well as the surrounding world. In my own congregation, we make ourselves feel better once each month as we hand out USDA food (poor nutritional quality) and a hot meal, after making our brothers and sisters wait outside in a line that stretches around the building. Magnanimous - I think that we have a ways to go!

Our path to health, wellness and wholeness are all wrapped up in our ability (or inability) to become greater in spirit. To see ouselves and others as the flawed humans that we are. To not sell ourselves short, and to not over-inflate ourselves. The path is not a path we can walk alone, because it is very difficult to see ourselves as we really are. Find yourselves some caring and honest friends and begin to study works like Mr. Brackley's. It will be your doorway to improved health, wellness and wholeness.

Peace,
Dan