For sure many people, perhaps family and/or friends are truly struggling to survive in today's economic misery. One time McMansion dwellers are mow living with relatives or friends or in dthe least expensive housing available. There is no other way to describe this current American picture than these words: "the tables have turned."
St Ignatius of Loyola wrote in letters and general directions to his army of Jesuits and to the many retreatants who have worked (prayed) their way through teh SPiritu Exercises (his format for retreats) heard or read the word moderation. He called all of these people to practice moderation. Further he suggested these words be added to "moderation": in ALL things.
for the Type A personality this surely is a challenge. For the person who might know laziness this phrase is truly a reality that hurts. However, for many other the practice of moderation is admired especially in the lives of others! Even people dubbed "spiritual" by family and friends may have this suggested moderation difficult to follow.
Moderation, as we know in theory, will lead to a simplicity that brings with it a freedom, a genuine peace of mind, particularly for oneself. God gives us abundance but it isn't in things, possessions or monies. His abundance comes in graces to lead to simplicity and care for others.
Surely poverty is no piece of pie. Usually, if not chosen as a way of life, it will burt noly one person but several others who depend upon the person as a soure of life's needs. On the other hand, having or even hoarding cane be the cause of much discomfort and distraction and worry.
Once again as Fall is approaching and we begin to hear phrases like "Fall house cleaning." Now is the time to look at our lives and ask ourselves if "moderation" is alive and well in all things of our lives. Always recall these words" True moderation is the key to freedom and peace."
