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| Henri Nouwen, in his book, The Way of the Heart, talks about these false selves, these compulsions that drive us crazy. “There are two evils to the spiritual life—anger and greed.” These twin compulsions gather up steam when our identities are found in things other than God. “Why would I need to get angry, unless my identity depends on what others think of me? Why would I be greedy, unless my identity is wrapped up in what I own?” Finding my true identity—in God—is the key factor in overcoming my harsh condemnation of others. When I find myself beloved, that is, when I take the log of self-hatred and unworthiness out of my “I,” then I find I’m not nearly so bothered with what others do or don’t do. I don’t have to put them down to build myself up. I don’t have to critique them to beat them to the punch. Probably, with the log out of my own eye, I’m so happy I don’t even care about their specks. But it’s more than that. Finding my true identity in God is the only thing that can defeat my false selves. Who I am is not what they say I am or how many medals I earn or whether or not I look good. Who I am is found in God. Once I know this, or even just begin to experience a piece of knowing this, then I can rest. I am God’s beloved. I don’t have to fight anymore. So, with God’s help, I’m taking the log out of my “I.” And I see the world differently. And my “I” feels so much better. Our Many Selves, Elizabeth O’Connor, New York: Harper and Row, 1971, pp. 71-83. The Way of the Heart: desert spirituality and contemprary ministry,Henri JM Nouwen, New York: Seabury Press, 1981, p. 17. Continued... |
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