The Forgotten Way

 I sat down this afternoon to write my blog and read a book instead.  It wasn't very long, and I skimmed through some of it.  The book is The Forgotten Way by Matthew Kelly.  The premise of the book is that you can transform your life and grow in holiness by changing the way you speak.  The Forgotten Way is the St. James Master Plan described in the Book of James, particularly James 3:2, "for we all fall short in many respects.  If anyone does not fall short in speech, he is a perfect man."  The Camino Pilgrimage, or Way of St. James, is a physical experience that requires commitment.  The Forgotten Way is the inner Camino.  What St. James tells us is that we can become saints by governing our speech.  It allows us to remain aligned with God.  

We all know how words can build up or they can tear down, and Matthew Kelly says that some of the most evil words are gossip.  I agree.  This Thursday, I am putting on the full armor of God, and bringing back the Principal's Coffee.  I asked parents to tell me their one burning question or concern ahead of time, and I would speak on the one issue that many seem to have and then take questions.  What is most interesting is that some people have shared with me that they hear many parents are unhappy and angry.  As of this morning, only 14 parents have signed up and most of their questions are simple and can be answered by reading the handbook (what is our bullying policy) or Tidbits (how does the parish support the school and what is the security update) or the Website (where are the school financials).  No one seems unhappy or angry, but I also understand that some work and cannot attend, or they would rather participate in gossip than be part of the solution.  Some did not have a question or concern, they just want to come because they are invested in the school and want to be part of the solution.  

The idea of governing our speech is something you can also share with the students.  Even the youngest can understand how words can hurt.  Here is something I read in the book that I thought was perfect to say to a child.  Engage the brain before opening your mouth, and more importantly, engage your soul.  Tell the students to think before they speak.  What will be the impact of my words on someone else and on myself?  If Jesus was standing next to me (and he is), what would he think of my words?   This is much more profound then telling them to be nice.  

Ponder this as you finish up your day.  As we learned this weekend at Mass, we are all missionaries, called to proclaim the Good News.  Let us share our positive words with our students, parents, and each other.  

We have a short week.  Boo grams continue and the Holy Card for tomorrow is St. Carlo Acutis.  Please check that is what the students in free dress have.  Friday is our retreat and I will be sharing more details this week.  

Have a beautiful week!