Busybody-itis

Earlier this morning, I read a wonderful and always needed post on Elizabeth Foss' blog. I also read the article she referenced, but I much preferred what Elizabeth had to say about it all.

She discussed the problem of women being busybodies. She pointed out that we "need to be careful that we aren't so involved in the affairs of others--even when we think we're meeting an urgent need--that we neglect our duties at home." The article(s) also warned against idleness and how it is often disguised as busyness.

I can see how my tendency to always be doing (whether it be housework, organizing, computer time or keeping affairs in order) can keep me from attending to the most important things, or should I say people, my children and husband. I hesitate to say I am not too bad about being over-involved in other people's business (I do keep up with my two or three best friends and family and what is happening in their lives). I am sure I fall short in this area. But I see my main problem is in missing the moments of quiet and learning and sharing with my family because I am so busy with the affairs of the home. My home is clean and neat and the laundry and meals are for the most part well done, but it is the extra duties that clutter my day. Even personal interests and hobbies and my desire to seek them can get in the way.

This was so timely. Yesterday my daily meditation book focused on the Mass readings for the day, which were about the man who asked Jesus what else he must do, besides follow all the commandements, to inherit the kingdom of Heaven. This man turns and rejects Jesus' invitation to discipleship because he cannot sacrifice his "stuff." How sad and, yet, how me, how us. How human.

My meditation book (In Conversation with God by Francis Fernandez) said the following:

"It can happen that the Lord will cross our path so as to invite us to follow him more closely, without leaving our place in the world, but with an unconditional surrender of our heart. ... This is what He asks of everyone, of each one in the place and state to which he is clled, in the particular and specific vocation he or she has received from God. Vocation is the most important aspect of our life. (emphasis mine) Once it is known, our vocation is the business that should occupy all our energies, with the help of divine grace, until the end of our days."

It TRULY IS all about my vocation. Food for thought. Whew, I'm hungry!