(written in 2004)
Ginkgo trees are giving their nuts and yellow leaves to the people and the wind makes the process faster. Julian of Norwich, a mystic of the 14th century, advises not to concentrate on selfishness, sin, and suffering but to face the compassion and mercy of God instead, for the heavens are filled with joy and glory. Her spirituality is creative, consoling, and life-oriented.
Julian of Norwich was eager to suffer the passion of Christ alone. Contrition, compassion, and longing to do the will of God were her three wishes. She also found the feminine side of God, in other words, the power of enduring and giving life to others.
She was almost dead of the disease in her 30s. In the midst of suffering, she saw a crucifix in a vision and recovered from her illness. She vowed contrition, compassion, and doing the will of God always.
I recently made a mistake in the process of editing a book in choosing a word. The book has been published, and the translator pointed out the delicate meaning of the word "image therapy." So, we had to change it using stickers. Every member of the book team worked hard on this tedious job the whole day. Feeling responsible for such a mistake, I couldn't eat and continued to put on stickers throughout the evening.
What a surprise! All of the members in my community, 13 in all, came to the bookshelves to help me finish the job. I was so touched that my burden felt removed. I was joyful and grateful for their willing and enduring collaboration. I was happy to feel the hands of compassion and understanding of God from my community.
In fact, it was the first time I felt such a sense of solidarity in the community. I decided to help others in the same situation, even when I am not directly responsible. I was so touched, I felt I was changing inside.
Once we experience something special and touching, it is easier to change the inner self and give the self to others. According to Sr. Suzuki Hideko in her book titled "How to Face Death with Happiness," there are three common aspects in those who have a near-death experience. This book has been translated into Korean by the title of "The Truth of Life Left by the Departed Person."
Have you had a near-death experience? Some people have and are living a new life of service and sharing. Those who have endured both physical and spiritual suffering have a better understanding and more enthusiasm for life.
Those who healed miraculously have three things in common. First, their attitude toward accepting disease is different. They believe every disease has a special meaning and don't equate sickness with unhappiness. Pain exists, but the pain doesn't get rid of happiness. They accept reality as it is. Finding meaning in every situation becomes an opportunity to grow.
Second, they are grateful for life. No matter what happens later, they know how to communicate and share with their family. Surely, a sense of gratitude brings creative energy and healing power. It lets us face reality with grace.
Third, they make up their minds to live for others if they can live longer. Their point of view changes into one of love and thanks. A selfish attitude is transformed into mutual sharing with willing joy. They are moved from the world of doing to the world of being. They cherish a community united with one another in compassionate love. In fact, communion is the keyword for miraculous healing.
The power to overcome disease or difficulty is in us, in our unconsciousness. We are not alone. The universe and God are always with us. We surely have the inner power to overcome our obstacles.
The Korea Times/ Thoughts of the Times/ Nov. 27, 2004
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