This is how I began my Rule of Life:
“It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye” Le Petit Prince (1943) is a novel by Antoine de Saint Exupéry, translated into English as The Little Prince.
Growing up my mother said to me “You have a kind heart.” Later in high school “The Little Prince” was read over the intercom system by my principal Sister Mary Catherine. This quote, and many words about the heart, spoken by these two strong women role models, have stuck in my memory ever since. In relation to God, my family, and others and I will strive to remain heart-centered.
But what is a Rule of Life? This is one definition.
“A Rule of Life is an intentional pattern of spiritual disciplines that provides structure and direction for growth in holiness. A Rule establishes a rhythm for life in which is helpful for being formed by the Spirit, a rhythm that reflects a love for God and respect for how he has made us. The disciplines which we build into our rhythm of life help us to shed the “old self” and allow our “new self” in Christ to be formed. Spiritual disciplines are means of grace by which God can nourish us. Ultimately a Rule should help you to love God more….” – http://www.cslewisinstitute.org/webfm_send/338
In my mind this rhythm of life should (after a time) become second nature. It should be revisited quarterly and revised as needed! But ultimately as “God is Love” starting from the heart center as I have is a good beginning. I am terrible at sitting still so I make music and movement part of my Rule of Life. I am my nature an activist so when my Pastor was concerned about liability issues if I did Spiritual Direction on the Parish premises I chose to found St. Brigid’s Well. I am Celtic by birth and after much reading and reflection and visiting a Brigid’s Well in Ireland I decided to use this name.
