Back when the Beatles were in business, they occasionally wrote songs that they themselves thought of as “throwaways,” meaning that they didn’t really think much of the songs themselves and yet, often these songs turned out to be hits, resonating with their fans.
I have to admit that occasionally, I consider some of my posts to be “throwaways” – something that I post because I can’t think of anything else at the moment and, it almost never fails, such posts get more response than posts I thought were deeply profound!
Yesterday’s post on Meekness was one such example. I was out of town for a couple of days and realized I needed something to post in my absence so I gathered a few thoughts on meekness that I recently compiled and posted them. I’ve received some nice responses on that post but the most interesting one came via email from Elaine:
Dear Joe,
A meek horse is one who is sensitive to his master’s reigns. Perhaps this fits your article about meekness.
Yours in Christ,
Elaine Hrinda C.R.E., St. Angela Merici Parish, White Oak, PA
I did a little research to find out what she was referring to and immediately came across this post about Meekness and war horses which I found to be very informative. It reinforces the notion that meekness is not weakness but is the art of mastering one’s power.
[photo courtesy of One lucky guy via Compfight]
Joe,
Are you aware that the link to “this post about Meekness” isn’t working?
This is a very interesting angle. I’d love to read it.
Thanks,
Mac
Thanks, Margaret…repairs underway.
Chicago Joe,
Everyone enjoyed your presentation in Jersey this week. I bought, at your suggestion, The Power of Habit. Would the cue be, “Your attitude” and then the reward “must be that of Christ?”
Hi Deacon Greg! Really enjoyed my visit and meeting/conversing with you! Thanks for the stories and insights. Let me know what thoughts you have about it.
I think the whole statement (Your attitude – must be that of Christ) would be the cue and the reward would be the blessings that come from having an attitude like Christ! 🙂
Joe
Thanks for your reflections on virtues. We need to be teaching virtues as a way of practicing the Gospel. Virtues surpass rules. They flow from the heart not the brain, Rules heap coals on our heads, telling us what we should not have done. Virtues are habits that enable us to apply Gospel values where we live. I need to read your “habits” book and share it with others.
The last pope wrote treatises on the theological virtues. I think Pope Francis would be a good fit for writing something on the moral virtues and all the sub-virtues that come under each.
Keep it up, Joe. I give your books out to whomever I think could use them. I am a “Joe man” and a Hawks fan!
Thanks Frank. I really like what you said about virtues over rules. So true! Go Hawks!