From "Amazing Grace by Kathleen Norris. In this book she takes many of the words and images of the faith and attempts to put some reality and life to them.
DETACHMENT
The word "detachment," valued by early monks as a virtue, has almost lost its positive connotation... in this tradition it means not allowing either worldly values or self-centeredness to distract us from what is most essential in our relationship with God, and with each other. One sixth-century monk, Dorotheus of Gaza, describes detachment as "being free from (wanting) certain things to happen." and remaining so trusting of God that "what is happening will be the thing you want and you will be at peace with all."
In some ways I would like to say that detachment is focused engagement. We are invited to engage the vision of the reign of God even as we make our way through the many pieces of our daily life. Detachment is not then a removal from the world and the ways of the world. Rather, upon fixing our eyes on our relationship with our God and the promises that go along with God's embrace of us - all of which demands prayerful attention - we encounter the decisions of life as though we see them through a new lens. Detachment also is a way to remember the importance of letting go. The agendas we carry through the day often occupy so much of our attention and our energy that we lose sight of the gift of life and the amazing things that can take place right in the midst of all the adventures going on around us. I find that as I am now riding my bicycle and I am "detached" from my car, I see roadways in a new way. My vehicle brings into my vision the flowers alongside the road, the faces on the people walk in the street or cutting the law. When our vehicle for the day is the Reign of our Gracious God, we become detached from the flow of what is routine and we are handed back the same-old, same-old...in a new way.
Connection: Taking the time to unplug and to plug into another way of experiencing this day may turn into a blessed adventure.
Ground of our Lives and Lord each moment, take us and call us and touch us so that we may look to you as we begin our day and begin the many acts of this day. Inspire us to see our relationship with you as the defining mark etched into each moment. Amen
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