In your discernment, have you considered the reality of living community life?
St. Jane de Chantal, our Foundress, answers a subtle question put to her by her Sisters by drawing on our Founder, St Francis de Sales’ insights, in her Answers.
The question put to our Foundress was: What is the meaning of “she must use her heart, eyes and words, only for the service of the heavenly Spouse, and not for that of human whims and inclinations?
St Jane said ” Our Blessed Father once answered this question and said ‘ For instance, there are two Sisters, one whom you may like well, and the other for whom you may not have so much inclination, and to whom therefore you will not show the same hearty affection. But if you loved both only for God, you would shaow to both the same affection.
This example explains the rest, that we are not to say, love and do anything whatever but for God and not according to our inclinations.’
p311-312
Many discerners idealize community life, imagining much spiritual support and sharing. YES, this is the hope.
BUT, examine first how well you interact with people in your lay life, at work, at school. What are your people skills? If these are underdeveloped or your style abrasive and less than charitable, you will bring these attributes with you to the Monastery, unless you resolve to change. The Sisters in community will extend their care towards you but remember all the members are human.
The key to change is simply stated above: DO ALL FOR GOD, not for yourself, not for your inclinations, not for “this is how I am”. The true spiritual life means an absolute revolution in your interior life, especially if you have not begun this conversion already.
ONLY FOR GOD- the keyword!
Pray to St. Jane who will help you from her heavenly home, and especially as her Feast approaches on August 12th.