Summer Reflections

The summer season is often a time when many of us take a break from our daily routine and regular activities to be renewed and refreshed in different types of activities. It may traveling to some destination on a vacation, heading to the beach to catch the rays of the sun or swimming in the refreshing waters, spending more time recreating in leisurely activities, engaging in hobbies, catching up on reading, visiting friends and family.

The title of Rev. Gerald O'Collins, S.J. recent Paulist Press book, Reflections for Busy People promotes the need to make the time and take the effort to pause from our busy daily lives and to reflect upon our personal lives. This summer issue of The Catholic World offers a fine collection of reflections on significant aspects in human relationships as well as recalling the importance of social dimensions.

How critical moral thinking has evolved over the past couple of generations, a consideration of hope and courageous leadership, an insightful and creative exercise in biblical or religious imagination and the spiritual dimensions of friendship are among the topics presented. Given that human beings have social aspects to their interactions with others, these articles offer various insights in taking the time to pause, read and reflect upon who we are and what we do with others.

With the summer season upon us, may the various leisure activities in which we engage foster a spirit of personal reflection to renew and reinvigorate us in finding deeper meaning in our lives by making the time to pause for thought.

         Rev. Michael Kerrigan, C.S.P.

         Managing Editor