During St. Ignatius’ early days with his broken leg, he only had a couple of books to distract himself from the pain in his leg and his grumpy mood.
What he noticed in himself: when he read the life of Christ and the saints, he felt more peaceful and at rest. But when he read the stories of great knights and daring deeds, he felt more disgruntled and restless.
Later in his spiritual journey as he tried to pray more and help others, he noticed that he felt peaceful and at rest when he was more conscious of Christ’s action in him and in the world around him.
When the restlessness and negative thoughts about himself and his life took over, he realized that he felt farther away from Christ and less aware of all the ways he was acting in his life and the world around him.
Eventually, he identified these two interior movements as consolation and desolation. These were not to be confused with happiness and sadness on a superficial level in life, but as indications of the authenticity of God’s presence and action.
Identifying these movements in our daily lives can be a great help when looking for a direction in life. In consolation, carry on faithfully on the same path. In desolation, however, take a second look at what is happening, share what is going on with a good spiritual guide and pray even more earnestly for direction.
Sister Rosemary Fry
