Opening Myself Up

 


 


Thursday’s reflection from the Ignatian Solidarity Network addresses the differences between self-preservation and vulnerability.

https://ignatiansolidarity.net/blog/2021/02/25/self-preservation-vulnerability/

          Last semester, I took a course in Multicultural Psychology and it was truly one of the most eye-opening courses I have ever taken. My professor opened each session not only as a safe space, but a “brave space.” Our sessions helped me to recognize that it is okay not to know all there is to know about marginalized populations. It is okay to make honest mistakes as we continue to grow and learn about individuals who are different from us. But as we learn, we must be honest with ourselves. We have to be willing to acknowledge those moments where we did not see the full picture, or we did not recognize our brothers and sisters the way we should have. 

          When I think about Lent, I think of it as a way to wrestle with ourselves. I do not see this as a time to condemn ourselves for all the times we have been wrong in the past. Rather, I see it as a time to be willing and open to that which God is calling us to do.

          I feel overwhelmed and frustrated when I see the tremendous amount of suffering our country faces today. We have people suffering and dying from COVID-19, people suffering the consequences of racism and discrimination, people suffering from homelessness, and more. I do not know where I am called to serve. So, I take this time during Lent and I wrestle. The question is not how many different things I am doing right now, but rather, when the time comes, will I be open to the idea? God does not expect us to do everything, but to be willing. When one of my brothers or sisters is in need, how will I provide? When I make a mistake that affects another, am I open to acknowledging that mishap?   When God calls on me, how will I respond?

Kristen S.

Resource:

https://ignatiansolidarity.net/blog/2020/06/03/an-examen-for-white-allies-2/?utm_source=ISN+Updates+List&utm_campaign=49dbb2d739-NEWS_VOICES_060920&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_f721035495-49dbb2d739-255841513&mc_cid=49dbb2d739&mc_eid=a39d88d20b


            

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