I never thought of fortitude in association with activism (as your quote from Pieper states). In my mind it goes really well with patience, a sort of quiet, enduring courage. But that got me thinking of the kind of courage that charges into things—an active activism. Now I’m contemplating the pros and cons of both. Active courage is necessary at times, but it has to be done with wisdom. Fortitude is great for long-haul situations, but can’t become acedia. My personality leans toward the fortitude, but I struggle with being too passive. At the same time, I’m not nearly as bothered by sad things happening in the world as people I know who are more likely to charge in and want to fix things. Hmmm….
The connection of patience and courage with good cheer resonates soundly. "Patience does not imply the exclusion of energetic, forceful activity, but simply, explicitly and solely the exclusion of sadness and confusion of heart." It's that confidence of resting in love, even when things are hard. Good, good thoughts on a day when the children have severely tried my patience. ;)
I never thought of fortitude in association with activism (as your quote from Pieper states). In my mind it goes really well with patience, a sort of quiet, enduring courage. But that got me thinking of the kind of courage that charges into things—an active activism. Now I’m contemplating the pros and cons of both. Active courage is necessary at times, but it has to be done with wisdom. Fortitude is great for long-haul situations, but can’t become acedia. My personality leans toward the fortitude, but I struggle with being too passive. At the same time, I’m not nearly as bothered by sad things happening in the world as people I know who are more likely to charge in and want to fix things. Hmmm….
The connection of patience and courage with good cheer resonates soundly. "Patience does not imply the exclusion of energetic, forceful activity, but simply, explicitly and solely the exclusion of sadness and confusion of heart." It's that confidence of resting in love, even when things are hard. Good, good thoughts on a day when the children have severely tried my patience. ;)
Thanks for sharing - I need such patience, and pray God grants it.