Be at Peace

A Reflection by Dr. Tom Opfer ’96, Principal We know that St. Francis de Sales teaches us to be at peace. I believe we all need to listen to that advice, especially in our busy world.

St. Francis de Sales teaches us, “Do not worry about tomorrow. The same everlasting Father who cares for you today will take care of you tomorrow and every day. Either he will shield you from pain and suffering or give you unfailing strength to bear it. Be at peace then and put aside all anxious thoughts and imaginations.”

I first learned this quote 30 years ago when I was a student here at PVI. My friend, Fr. Ed Ogden, OSFS, shared this quote and taught us to take time to be at peace, to stop worrying, and to live in the present moment.

Being at peace starts with recognizing the little ways we can be gentle, grateful, and giving each and every day. Gentleness is not weakness but rather controlled, directed, and loving strength. It might also be described as knowing how to react to life appropriately and proportionately. To quote St. Francis de Sales: “There is no nothing so strong as gentleness and nothing so gentle as real strength.”

Gratefulness is thanksgiving to God for the many wonderful gifts we have been given. We are called to share our gratefulness with others and tell others when we are grateful for their service and kindness to each one of us.

Giving. We are called to be servants. Let us give of ourselves in service to God by helping others around us.