Not my will, but yours - Br. Patrick Boland, OSB

One of the things monastic life consists of is giving up one’s will for God’s will; however monks are not alone in this activity. Many lay people sacrifice their own desires for others. The most obvious are parents and couples. Reflecting on this reminds me of a story about one of my brothers that occurred many years ago. I was living in Florida and he brought his family to visit and go to Disney world. Of all the activities we had planned there was one in particular he really wanted to do, attend the Hawaiian Luau at Magic Kingdom. He had never seen a Luau in person, but always wanted to. Our error in planning was making this the last event of the day. If I remember correctly it began about 9pm, we had a full day of walking, standing and riding, then had to wait about an hour for the Luau to begin. Less than 30 minutes into the show his children couldn’t stay awake, one was sleeping on the floor under the table the other two in their chairs, not touching their food. He finally said, “Let’s go.” I replied that the show had just begun, but he insisted we should leave and put the children to bed.

I’ll never forget that sacrifice because at that stage of my life I didn’t seem to mind the sleeping children because I was so centered on my own enjoyment. I think he taught me a lot that evening about putting others first, but it really didn’t sink in until several years later. He is not alone or especially unique because I’m sure any of you that are parents can cite your own examples. I am edified by your self-giving and that strengthens me in my vocation to put the needs of the monastic community before my own. When people ask how I do without certain luxuries, my response in not so much what I don’t have but what I’m willing to do without. There is a certain amount of healthy pride in knowing I’m doing my part to live in community and that others are doing the same. In this case it is you that inspire me and I thank you for your commitment to Christian living.