Let the Heart Lead!

During a few days of leisure in the west, I've come eye-to-eye with creatures who were happy in their skin and environment. As l sat outside a pub, a young cat jumped up into my lap to look into my face. Cats are usually reserved around strangers! However, the owner told me that she's a pub cat and familiarity usually wins her bits of fish and burgers! No such luck from me so l was the winner with her purrs! I met two wild mountain goats in the park in Letterfrack. Unlike the usual silly, skittish farmed goats, these goats had attitude and solid comfort in their environment! They looked strong and rugged.

As l write this and consider the creatures I've encountered this morning, I realise that living with meaningful purpose makes a difference to how we are and to how we present. Both the cat and goats were safe; they had what they needed to nourish them; they were relaxed while in action. They added to my experience in both places.

The 'domestic' goats have little meaningful purpose in their environment, whereas the wild goats are part of the ecosystem. Domestic goats behave unpredictably and eat everything in sight to keep themselves entertained. Cats will usually find their zone of comfort, but the one l encountered was particularly adept and at home with everyone - we were in his home - his ecosystem!

As our young people at transition points leading towards choice of courses or occupations, choose what makes the heart happy and creates a sense of gentle excitement, we each have a particular purpose in the world and our hearts guide us there. Most will have many occupations in life with this place just being a start! Let the heart lead!

Cathy Burke
Catechist in the Lucan Partnership of Parishes