When It's Tough to Stay the Course

It was a busy morning, approximately 8:30 am, when an elderly gentleman in his 80's, arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He stated that he was in a hurry since he had an appointment at 9:00 am The gentleman explained that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife who suffered from Alzheimer's disease. As the doctor finished dressing the man's wound, the physician asked if the man would be worried if he would be a bit late. The patient explained that his wife no longer knew who he was -- that she had not recognized him in five years. The physician was amazed. "And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are?" He smiled as he patted the doctor's hand and said. "She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is."

What wisdom - what love. No matter how this man's actions were judged - perhaps with great admiration - perhaps with criticism for subjecting himself to unnecessary grief - he knew a truth that transcended other's opinions. And nothing would keep him from those daily visits with his wife. Jesus urges us to stay the course. Know that some will be critical of you - no matter how much good you do and no matter how much excellence you bring to your work. Our Lord was denounced as a glutton and a drunkard - and his cousin, John as demonic for eating and drinking so little. There just was no pleasing that crowd.

We need to strengthen our internal compass, trust its accuracy, and then follow the course. If we are honest with ourselves, "Who are we really trying to please?" Today ask the Lord to empty you of ego seeking, to fill you his Spirit. Know that He will deliver a peace, joy and confidence that will fortify you to live your day for what really matters. Kathleen M. Sullivan, PhD