Struggle and Strive
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In making a nightly examination of conscience, there can be a temptation to overly focus on the negatives—our sins and shortcomings, beating ourselves up over each mistake. However, this isn't the true purpose of an examination of conscience. St. Francis de Sales offers comforting advice, saying, "We must not be disturbed at our imperfections, since for us perfection consists in fighting against them."
How can we fight against our imperfections unless we see them, or overcome them unless we face them? This is the essence of the examination of conscience. It begins with recognizing the areas where we struggle. Where am I deficient? What virtues am I lacking? It's in this initial recognition that the path to improvement begins. After all, how can we improve on something if we don't realize it's an area where we're lacking?
But recognizing our flaws is just the first step. The second step is about looking toward overcoming these issues. What practical resolutions can I make? How can I change my behavior to grow in virtue? This growth process isn't something that happens overnight.
As St. Francis de Sales points out, "Perfection consists in fighting against our imperfections, our vices." Can we continue to fight? Echoing this sentiment, St. Teresa of Avila encourages us not to tarry on the way but to strive like strong men until we die in the attempt, for we are here for nothing else but to strive.
So today, tomorrow, and every day, let’s get up again and continue to strive to grow in virtue.
How can we fight against our imperfections unless we see them, or overcome them unless we face them? This is the essence of the examination of conscience. It begins with recognizing the areas where we struggle. Where am I deficient? What virtues am I lacking? It's in this initial recognition that the path to improvement begins. After all, how can we improve on something if we don't realize it's an area where we're lacking?
But recognizing our flaws is just the first step. The second step is about looking toward overcoming these issues. What practical resolutions can I make? How can I change my behavior to grow in virtue? This growth process isn't something that happens overnight.
As St. Francis de Sales points out, "Perfection consists in fighting against our imperfections, our vices." Can we continue to fight? Echoing this sentiment, St. Teresa of Avila encourages us not to tarry on the way but to strive like strong men until we die in the attempt, for we are here for nothing else but to strive.
So today, tomorrow, and every day, let’s get up again and continue to strive to grow in virtue.