+JMJ
"The fervent and diligent man is ready for all things. It is harder to labor to withstand vices and passions than to toil at bodily labors. He that shuns not small defects, little by little, falls into greater ones. You will always be glad in the evening if you spend the day profitably."
(The Imitation of Christ)
When modern conveniences were introduced, men rightly rejoiced as much time that was previously spent in arduous labor could now be employed for self-improvement, family, and above all, rest. Unfortunately, man is a naturally undisciplined creature and so allotting him the gift of more time did not necessarily prove more beneficial.
Often taking a cavalier attitude, man assumes that perfect health, longevity, and the constant presence of children, friends or a spouse are givens rather than gifts. Mislead into a false security by the evil one, man foolishly squanders his limited time on pursuits that are wasteful at best and harmful at worst. The need for the soul to be refreshed is legitimate and proper; one cannot work continuously without sufficient rest and leisure. But, when in seeking to satiate this need, man grasps at immediate gratification in the form of empty diversions, he achieves the exact opposite by exciting passions—anger, anxiety, jealousy, etc.—that worthwhile pursuits would have quelled.
Embracing each moment does not necessitate engaging in physical activity but it does require forethought and reflection. Because the opportunities for rest are not lengthy nor predictable, if one does not examine his use of time and prayerfully prepare for these daily retreats, he will quickly gravitate to old habits. True leisure reinvigorates and refreshes the mind, the body and the soul while mindless activity drains and wearies the heart. At the knee of Our Mother, one learns to ponder the works of the Creator in all that is true, good and beautiful.
"O present moment, you belong to me, whole and entire. I. desire to use you as best I can. And although I am weak and small, You grant me the grace of Your omnipotence." (The Diary of St. Faustina)
