A Diamond or a Rhinestone

If you say to a young woman, “A diamond or a rhinestone: which would you prefer?” you will barely finish your sentence, and she will reach for the diamond.

And she would be right to do so--because the other is a waste of time--merely the imitation of a genuine jewel and not at all the real thing.  Attractive … but worthless.

In the world in which we live, our youth are so challenged to distinguish the real article from the imitation, the genuine good over the artificial good.  This is a discernment rooted in the education of the heart.  Formation is this “education of the heart.”  It is the formation of the intellect and will towards the discernment of the true good--the genuine good vs. the artificial “good.”  It is truly teaching our youth to reach for the diamonds of Goodness and Truth.  Those who reach for these diamonds are outstanding human beings, contributing to society in every facet of their life.  Whether in the home, in the workplace,  in church, or in society, they are steady individuals, working from an interior “compass” that guides their choices, actions, and reactions.  They do not waste time with artificial “jewels” of human respect, money, power or prestige.  Formation educates the heart to recognize the genuine “good” so as not to become caught up with the apparent “goods.” 

Practically speaking what does this mean?

If a “formed” student grows to become very successful in their field of work, they will have a balanced opinion of their gifts.  They will remember those who helped them; they will be grateful--ready to give and serve in response; they will be upright individuals in the workplace--honest, hard workers, not given to greed, but with eyes for the needs of others; they will be sincere and respectful in their dialogue with others.  As parents, they will be loving and caring, having the proper values in place.  As spouses, they will know and adhere to the grace of fidelity. 

Do you want your children to grow up to be men/women of character?
Do you want them to be free to choose rightly in the midst of the error surrounding them?
Do you want them to remain loving and giving--truly happy all of their life? 
Through life’s sufferings, do you want to see your children endure courageously, without growing bitter or hardened?

Formation is the seedbed for this life-long journey of growth and maturity in faith.

Ms. Peggy Duemling