How about this one from the Rule of St. Benedict: Idleness is the enemy of the soul. “Hey, wait a minute,” I shout out. “I’m suppose to sit quietly and do nothing. At least for a part of each day.”
Let’s consider Benedict’s word choice: idle. Back in the 6th century when he was writing the Rule, I’m sure it had a negative connotation. Today, fifteen centuries later, it still doesn’t have a particularly stellar association. But, when I sit in silence and solitude, I sure don’t consider myself idle, as in doing nothing. Being still is a friend to my soul.
Let’s consider Benedict’s word choice: idle. Back in the 6th century when he was writing the Rule, I’m sure it had a negative connotation. Today, fifteen centuries later, it still doesn’t have a particularly stellar association. But, when I sit in silence and solitude, I sure don’t consider myself idle, as in doing nothing. Being still is a friend to my soul.
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