We had a long discussion on spiritual direction and counselling and manifestation and related stuff this whole morning. I intervened only before lunch. My only intervention was this:
If young people joining us are given a taste of freedom that an attitude of openness offers right on early in life, then they are sure to get so 'addicted' to it that none need to 'tell' them to go for manifestation to the Rector, or meet the spiritual director. They will naturally take to spiritual direction like fish to water. However, this attitude of openness is essential for a religious. If not, he is bound to carry with him a burden, which at time will surely become too heavy to bear. However, there could be some issues that need counselling which could be addressed to by a psychologist or a trained counsellor. But this is only an additional help. If the person has not learnt the art of opening up, no counsellor or spiritual guide can help. Furthermore, if a person is always carrying such a heavy baggage that he always needs support and counselling, when on earth will he help others with their baggage?
We all are broken and wounded in some way or the other. Yet we learn to extend a healing touch to others in and through our brokenness. But if we are so broken that it is we who seek healing all the time and every time, then I would question the very vocation of such an individual to religious or consecrated life. The best would be to ask him to discontinue and help him with or through a psychologist.
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