There are countless issues that can disrupt our tranquility in today’s society. However, we must not allow the devil to triumph. Although we might not be able to alter the outside occurrences that jeopardize our calmness, we can modify our responses. We can opt to view the world through a perspective of thankfulness rather than a perspective of lack.

As we near the Thanksgiving period, sentiments about thankfulness can be found everywhere. Now, don’t misunderstand me: I appreciate some lovely autumn decorations that promote a grateful spirit. However, despite the increased emphasis on gratitude in recent years, I believe we are still falling short. This is because the gratitude our society advocates merely skims the surface of the profound appreciation that our beliefs offer.

And it is exactly the perspective that my faith offers that I appreciate the most, because even when the world seems to be falling apart, even when the clamor of the world is overwhelming, God is present.

Therefore, when the world and the adversary attempt to discourage me, I hold onto the truth my faith declares, the reality I’ve encountered:

• • • Whenever I come across negative remarks on the internet, I recall those individuals who dedicate themselves to recognizing the positive in others and declaring the benevolence of God.
    • When I come across more headlines regarding sexual abuse by clergy — whether historical or contemporary — I remember the testimonies of priests who are prepared to sacrifice everything for the Church: priests who have made me feel acknowledged in the confessional; priests who have demonstrated profound love for their calling through their overwhelming joy; priests who have revealed fresh dimensions of reverence for Christ in the Eucharist; and priests who have devoted themselves to the people of God, including those outside their own congregation.
    • Whenever I observe division in the world and within the Church, I recall that some saints have historically disagreed (think Peter and Paul), yet God employed their flaws and shortcomings to establish the Church we recognize today.
    • Whenever I experience feelings of isolation, I seek the Lord through prayer, confident that He is perpetually by my side. (A brief Divine Mercy Chaplet during midday serves as an excellent source of encouragement.) Additionally, when I still sense loneliness, I remind myself of the assembly of witnesses who have faced their own struggles and are now advocating for me and the world from their glorious position in heaven.
    • When I feel inclined to lose hope regarding the condition of the world, I remind myself that God can utilize everything for his benefit, provided we align ourselves with his grace. Furthermore, I recall that this existence is transient and that we are created for greater purposes beyond this life.

Indeed, this world is fading away. It has always been so. We are merely fortunate to live a brief existence on this planet, a life in which we are encouraged to honor and understand our God. The greatest gift we can appreciate is God himself and the promise he has provided us: that we may ultimately dwell with him in heaven.

Therefore, do not allow the devil to deceive you into giving up your tranquility. Hold tightly to him who is the Prince of Peace, and nurture a heart that, even during the toughest days, recognizes his goodness in all things.

Ava Lalor is assistant editor for Our Sunday Visitor and editor for Radiant magazine.