The term (cheerfulness) may sound rather old-fashioned and naive. Dictionaries define this word as being of a cheerful spirit, or good-humored (as opposed to dejected), accepting even sorrow and adversity. This last meaning says that this is not about cranked up optimism, blind to what is wrong and difficult. Cheerfulness has to do with being courageous--a character trait not needed when everything works smoothly, but only when we meet barriers, adversity, worry and uncertainty.
After the passage of this health care legislation (that, ultimately, will lead to increased abortions and probably euthanasia), it has been easy to view the world as dark and cruel. Even looking at our own lives and those of the people we love--we see our vast sinfulness and wonder if tomorrow really can be better.
St. Benedict knew this (in his wisdom that is over 1500 years old) and cautioned his monks against it. His words ring just as true now, for us, in our day-to-day lives.
It is easy to grumble and complain or simply become discouraged. Though we know that Christ was crucified and then rose from the dead. Tomorrow can be better than today. The beginning of which is rooted in our cheerful disposition towards adversity. Thus we will grow stronger as children of Christ, relying upon Him to get us through.
May God quench your weary soul this day and may you carry on giving to those in your life, the cheerful message of Christ's love.
