September 15, 2019

This past week I had the opportunity to attend a presentation given by Father Ronald Rolheiser, O.M.I. at St. Thomas More Chapel. Father Rolheiser is a noted spiritu-al writer who has published many books and is well respected.

His academic talk focused on learning that was sincere and authentic. He listed Ten Commandments for learning. First: the gifts that God gave you are ultimately in-tended for everyone. We have long understood that God has given us gifts and talents. But to share those gifts is not always readily seen and to share those gifts and talents with everyone is a challenge.

Another of the Commandments: Be compassionate and go where that takes you. I think that most of us would want to be compassionate. Though we might say that there are limits to how compassionate we can or should be. But to go where that leads us. What a challenge! And to connect compassion with learning is a new insight for me. I usually connect compassion with someone in need.

A final one that I will mention: Learn how to believe in Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny again. To become more childlike. Jesus had great insight in saying that God has revealed much to little children. We, too, as adults often so sophisticated need to have the wonderment of a child to life and learning.

Attending presentations like this one is a chance to stretch one’s mind, one’s heart and approach to life. I thank God for the presentation given by Father Rolheiser.

Msgr. Joe