But childish love does not last. If our love is to deepen, we must get to know God more deeply.
Saint Anthony said:
The child loves just because.
The adult loves, not because, but in spite of.
Think of someone you love.
Make a list in your head of things you really like about that person, all the things that make you love them …
Now make a list of all the little things about that person that irritate you.
Often, the second list just writes itself, faster and longer than the first list.
Here is what adults discover: We love in spite of all these things! Not because, but in spite of. You are called to love your neighbor in spite of everything. This is a holy love.
Blessings for the Feast of St. Anthony
friar Bob Showers OFM Conv.
My inspiration for this entry:
“Saint Anthony and You: A Novena” by friar Juniper Cummings OFM Conv.
(available online at: https://www.ecatholic2000.com/cts/untitled-421.shtml)