Brett's Discernment

I think one of the hardest things for us to do is to go out on a limb for people in terms of our emotions. Unrequited emotions - to always be the one available and not the one desired. Obviously people see this as most easily related to love, but I think it comes in all forms of emotional expression.
When we go out on limbs for others, it makes us vulnerable. It is really hard for me (or us?) to admit that this vulnerability is scary and induces paranoia. But then I think - this is a really important lesson for me. If it is scary to go out on a limb even a little bit, knowing we all have support systems and as Christians knowing that God is always with us, how much greater of a sacrifice and a gift is it for God through Christ to go out on a limb for us? It humbles me.

And in this way, even with all my distractions, God reminds me of the grace through which I am saved and calls me back, pulls, and cares for me.

Looking forward to eventually (after he gets back from Europe) talking with David S. about his call to the priesthood . . . Although previously I couldn't possibly understand how priests and nuns live with the celibacy/no marriage vow, I am starting to see how it's just a different call, and just how strong that call from God can be, and if you follow it and don't let these distractions get to you then your call and God's perfect/whole love will satisfy it.