Mingling With Idols

The virtue of simplicity is one of the three foundational virtues St. Marcellin encouraged all brothers (now all of us) to embrace. It complements humility and modesty by "keeping it simple", that is. straightforward, uncomplicated, a "what you see is what you get" approach, no false masks, no pretense, no spotlights, no diversionary side-bars, no false images or idols. Even with the best of intentions, we can, like the wise Solomon, become enamored of our gifts, seeing them as entitlements, and giving them undo attention and adulation. We live in a society that creates idols, more and more these days of not the best of ideals, values, or even people. Looking closely, we see that often they are merely "fronts" for something inadequate, empty, or even evil. Praying for the ability to "keep it simple" and on track in our own lives is one way of preventing the idols with which our daily life almost forces us to mingle from subtlely creeping into our own lives. And listening to the input from our families and friends who "tell it like it is" and whose opinion can be trusted, is another way of retaining simplicity. Not an easy virtue to practice, but one which allows us to be more effective witnesses to the God who has blessed us with our gifts, experiences and priceless people in our lives.
Bro. Rene