Young people and old today look for guidance when they are in trouble. When they are seeking guidance, they turn to those who they perceive to be wise, but what is it that makes heroes? What does it take to be idolized? I dare say that no person sees him-herself as one to be idolized, or to be emulated; this honour is bestowed by those who see good in us, who look to us for direction and who come to us for advise.
Saint Theresa of Lisieux, Blessed Theresa of Calcutta and the Servant of God John Paul II are three examples, from different times in history who have all lived lives of commitment to be devoted servants. Whether within the walls of a convent in Northwestern France, from the streets of one of the most populated cities in India, or from the window of his private apartment in the Vatican, these three people all strove to remain commited each day to doing the will of God.
What makes their example even more poignant is the fact that the world around them seemed to be characterized by many individuals who chose to ignore the fact that God loves each of us into existence and encourages us to share the good news of this love and acceptance with others. By contrast, many people's lives are characterized by individualism and a concern for enjoying the good things of life.
What is it that makes saints and people of commitment renounce the comforts of this world and choose instead to seek comfort and consolation in the quiet of prayer and contemplation? Perhaps we would all do well to examine the ramifications of our decisions and to devote ourselves one day at a time to living lives of radical commitment. It all begins with an act of will, and to remaining focused on willing one thing.
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