Greetings, Inspired Seekers!

Look within. How many times do we read that phrase, nod our heads and then … move along? Without really looking with a critical eye.

I'm not talking about recounting our self-perceived failures at work or parenting or even love. This is not about wallowing in our mistakes. Those approaches to looking within are, unfortunately, a condition of watered down spirituality rather than the call to our deep work that is required in order to grow. It misses the mark of the richness of our True Self.

Healthy self-assessment is, I think, a gift from Spirit and an invitation to do better. It is a reckoning form of self-accountability that does not make space for faux humility and mea culpas. Rather, it is an encouragement, an invitation to the question of: How can I do better?

The Hebrew tradition celebrates the internal assessment, and the Ignatian spiritual exercises offer a daily review of our choices and options to do better. Other traditions have similar versions of these examinations.

This self-appraisal is not an easy commitment as it forces us to move forward, to refuse complacency and to seek ways to honestly and inclusively live our faith – however we define it. To offer alternative narratives, to understand our short-sightedness and to change our behavior is painful at times and requires great humility along with a desire for holy discovery. It is born of a desire to love deeper, to live more faithfully and to welcome the growth of new and challenging ideas.

This process of self-evaluation is not arrogant or merely critical; it is actionable and does not result in mere platitudes. It requires courage, faith, hope and openness.

In these days of increasing light, when the days are growing longer and the nights losing their darkness, may our reflections have the courage to examine the light within the darkness and help it illuminate our place – a better place – in the world.

Grace, Always Yours,
Reverend Deborah

Question of the Month: Will you engage with your soul in a daily examination as a way of growing spiritually?

The Reverend Dr. Deborah Darlington supports all people on their spiritual journey with coaching, sacred celebrations and Chaplain services. She can be reached at GraceMatters@TheSpaceForGrace.com or at 215 260 1611.