“Seek and desire all the ways and means necessary to persevere and make progress to the very end.” Prologue to the Rule
When we approach a deadline on a project, or finalize any report or action, and near the end, we tend to lose momentum, interest, or energy. What more can be said but “Hang in there!” “We’ve done all that we can possibly do up to this time.” “Almost finished!” St. Angela encourages us to find all the ways we can to persevere to the end.
Our initial efforts are not enough; we must be constant and persevering in our efforts to the final day. This is another instance in which Angela had an understanding of the human condition. There are things we cannot do alone and need to rely on God or put our faith in another person. Our Ursuline motto, “Soli Deo Gloria” for the glory of God alone, calls us to give praise where praise is due.
Therefore, we muster all the energy we can find within ourselves to get to the end and complete the task. Then we can look back and say, “I did it! And I did my best.” With God as our companion and ultimate support, we can make a difference and feel good about what we accomplished. What we do know is that our very presence and efforts make a difference to someone, somewhere, somehow.
St. Angela said, “You have to thank (God) infinitely that, to you especially, was granted such a singular gift.”
Sister Donna Frey, OSU
Ursuline and Catholic Identity