Chapter 3: In the Light of the Master
“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”
The world tells us exactly the opposite. Entertainment, pleasure, diversion and escape make for the good life. The worldly person ignores problems of sickness or sorrow in the family or all around him: he averts his gaze. The world has no desire to mourn; it would rather disregard painful situations, cover them up or hide them. Much energy is expended on fleeing from situations of suffering in the belief that reality can be concealed. But the cross can never be absent.
A person who sees things as they truly are and sympathizes with pain or sorrow is capable of touching life’s depths and finding authentic happiness. He or she is consoled not by the world but by Jesus. Such persons are unafraid to share in the suffering of others; they do not flee from painful situations. They discover the meaning of life by coming to the aid of those who suffer, understanding their anguish and bringing relief… They feel compassion for others in such a way that all distance vanishes…
Knowing how to mourn with others: That is holiness.