Bearing Suffering

…his heart quietly embraces suffering and endures it without weakening or seeking escape. (RB 7.35-36)

I envy people who can suffer silently without making a big deal about it. That is definitely not me. If I am suffering or in pain, I make sure that everyone knows about it, knows the cause, and shares in the sorrow of it. (Sometimes it’s TMI but that’s okay.)

Here Benedict is inviting me to accept hardship and suffering patiently and quietly as a normal part of life. Not only am I supposed to accept suffering but pray for the grace not to weaken or to seek an easy escape path.

May God grant me the grace needed to accept my little sufferings quietly and patiently.

Sr. Catherine