VIRTUE RULES FROM THE CENTER

 

This discussion from three years back came to my mind the other night as I lay on my pillow wondering how long it would take before Morphea would take me to her bosom for the night.  You see a graphic view of my friend's position (left) as compared to mine (right).  It is clear, I think, that both concepts of virtuous living are valid and both lead to the ultimate prize, Eternal Happiness before the Face of God.

The reality of the striving for perfection has two distinct facets: one is visibly practiced in the "real world" of daily human interaction on "Main Street" and the other is a dedicated striving for the deepest possible personal relationship with God by leading a life of contemplation in a monastic cell, away from the demands of worldly life.  Both are valid and moral forms of human behavior and both lead to heaven.  Both can and do invite the rash judgment of onlookers that the practitioners of these lifestyles are "crazy."

Then there is the way to heaven that states that "virtue flourishes in the center."  This position is the one that comes from the ancient Greek philosopher, Aristotle.  His position was christianized by the great Catholic theologian, Thomas Aquinas.  

At first blush this position can appear to be wishy-washy; neither here nor there.  Actually, upon closer examination it becomes clear that this behavior system is as difficult to achieve as the search for perfection of one position or another.  When we consider the demands of community life it is easy to find the difficulties encountered in every day interactions with fellow humans, all of whom have their behavior systems.  Every moment of every day we are required to make progress in our personal life as we help others to do the same in theirs.  It is in these encounters that we seek to carry the message of Christ to the world.  This message has to take on various tints and shades.  

This can be illustrated in the shades of life seen in the missionary activity of Peter and Paul.  Peter sought the center in his message to the Romans while Paul honed his message to fit the population of the Synagogue.  In the end, they both died for what they believed in.

Finally, I hope that we all have the courage to have absolute conviction of our life style while walking the Way of the Cross.  Martyrdom is not always quick, but it is always worth it.

Remember, no crying at my funeral.