When Laurence and I moved into our first home together we had a back yard and garden. I purchased the tools, seeds, fertilizer and planted a vegetable garden. I was so excited about my new garden and worked in it every chance I got. The vegetable shoots started coming up and so did the weeds. There were weeds everywhere and no matter how quickly I pulled them up, they just as quickly returned. I weeded every spare minute until I was exhausted and discouraged.
I’ve watched very similar experiences with clients on their spiritual journey. They are so excited, they commit to lots of time, energy and resources expecting to eliminate old beliefs immediately and permanently. It is easy to get discouraged as we watch the old beliefs resurface again and again.
The practice is working, it just takes time. As with anything new, we learn to balance our enthusiasm and zeal with patience and persistence. We find balance in meditation, prayer and contemplation. It’s necessary to build a foundation of faith for our greater Good to be revealed.
Bible Reading: Luke 10:30-42; 11:1-4
Affirmation: “My zeal is tempered with wisdom, and I maintain a perfect balance within and without.” Keep a True Lent by Charles Fillmore