Sunny Side Up: Embracing our messy, imperfect humanity

One spiritual path we can take is to sink into our messy, imperfect humanity and embrace it to find true connection – with ourselves, each other, and the divine. — 123rf

I was delighted to reconnect recently with the writings of Dr James Finley, a former Trappist monk and clinical psychologist whose work has been a huge influence and comforting presence. In his teens, Finley spent six years living in a monastery under the direction of Thomas Merton, a renowned Christian mystic. One of Merton’s most striking qualities was his humility and groundedness.

I recall a talk by Finley that captures the true meaning of spiritual practice. With his trademark humour, he describes a parent deep in prayer, only to be interrupted by hungry children. Agitated, the parent snaps, “Can’t you see I’m trying to be a mystic? I said I’ll be out in 45 minutes and that means 45 minutes!” Slamming the door, the parent returns to prayer: “Now, where was I, oh lord? Oh yes. Dear God, please guide me in your loving compassion and infinite wisdom....”