Denial and Desire
Denial is a part of desire. How much either takes over is key, and not always what we think is best. In some ways it’s good to deny--to build, or rather rebuild, the self. But why we deny ourselves becomes a matter of discernment as well. Some deny to avoid. In the case of an addict that’s ok, but denial doesn’t work this way in every context. The example that comes to mind is denial of others, for any of a number of reasons, for fear of being led to sin. All are made by God. All have the potential to teach us. Even our temptations temper our souls. That crazy dance or battle between denial and desire--with a third party of will stepping in--can forge a soul. These days I have slowly and awkwardly allowed my girls to teach me something about them, and about myself. I feel like I am becoming better because of this. I am denying myself the urge to force my will, to impose myself upon their growth (within reason, but really, it’s hard to parent! To...