Obstacles

Sorry for the delay in writing - the world intrudes It is an old story of what happens when a parent dies and leaves everything to one child. 

My mother supported our Community of the Sacred Heart, a small group of men coming together in the old Russian monastic tradition of a Skete, guided by an elder, the community pursues a schedule and routine of continuous prayer, meditation, and acts of devotion. 

 Unlike other monasteries, however, the brothers live and work in the world rather than living in isolation. Each brother sustains himself through employment and is encouraged in his individual pursuit of self-development. We do not encourage conformity but cooperation through companionship as we share resources, chores, laughter and love.

She had reasons of her own, as well for bestowing financial support to the community. 

But as with every new beginning, there are obstacles - in this case, a lawyer. Before my mother could be cremated, a sibling was asking about her Will. Knowing there would be trouble, my mother set up her finances in a way that could not be challenged.

Nevertheless, when money is involved, people will try anything. 

I was unprepared for this entanglement but not ignorant of the trouble some people thrive on to fill the emptiness of their lives.

My own life has been for the most part, uncomplicated. Yet it is a full life, rich with experiences, blessed by the saints and angels.

I had no thoughts about the money, thinking wrongly that my mother had plenty of time to spend it. I also had no experience with  the complications and hassles of nosy lawyers.

A monk avoids unnecessary involvement with the affairs of the world.

The situation was stressful and yet, educational not so much about denial, greed and legal trickery. But I had to confront my own fears. Deep within me was the feeling that the world will keep me from doing what I have set out to do - serve God with all my heart. I suppose any spiritual seeker has had to face the same obstacles.

At times, I felt so overwhelmed by darkness and the fear it invoked within me.

Then one morning, I had this thought: "Beware of all lawyers. No matter who they have for a client, they work for the devil because they are more concerned with the laws of man than the laws of God."

It made me laugh, but most importantly, gave me strength to defend what belongs to God.

I ask all who read this to help us with their prayers, which will be like a gentle rain upon a seedling struggling to emerge.