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| Contemplation is the opening of the mind and heart; one's whole being to God. It is a relationship initiated by God and can be viewed as time 'resting in God.' Contemplation can be as simple as a name. Simply say or even whisper the Holy Name of 'Jesus' with your heart and mouth and you will find strength and stability. St Bernardine bared witness to this name by using the IHS symbolic monogram, which is the first three letters of the name Iesous (Greek for Jesus). St Bernadine promoted the monogram so that the people might be continually reminded of the Source of their salvation.
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| Resilience is the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragedy, threats, or significant sources of stress. It means 'bouncing back' from difficult experiences. Research has shown that resilience is ordinary, not extraordinary. Resilience involves behaviours, thoughts and actions that can be learned and developed in anyone.
“Proceed little by little, from good to better… And going forward so, you will drive off many dangers which otherwise might overcome you." St Bernadine shared these words to draw a comparison between someone who takes on too much and burns out and someone who perceives their goal is to 'do a little good' and then to 'do a little more good'. He says the latter will be much more effective and resilient over the long term.
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| Service is not just an action of helping others, but an attitude, an approach to life. Jesus teaches us Servant Leadership, where we are called to live in a way that is empowering to others. “Be always one of those who seek peace, peace with others, peace within your own soul, and peace with God. See to it that every thought of yours, your every act, your every deed, all be directed towards peace." St Bernadine expressed the importance of treating one another as brothers and sisters of the one God. With service we reach our potential through purposeful living, as we bring out the best in others, too.
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| When there is unity, people are in agreement and act together for a particular purpose. It is the state of being one or a oneness of mind, among people. Unity can be found in the word community. As a community we share the common goal of educating the whole child in an environment where the child can reach their potential and live life to the full.
“The last degree of love is when He gave Himself to us to be our Food; because He gave Himself to be united with us in every way."
St Bernardine calls us to live in harmony and to remember Jesus who united us in every way.
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| Respect is defined as a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements. The state of being admired or respected, in regard for the feelings, wishes, or rights of others.
“He who truly loves, and loves with his heart, sees the necessity to live in harmony with all"
St Bernardine calls us to be like Jesus. That each person has a God-given inherent dignity and worth. We are compelled to respect each other (and nature), ourselves and God in our deepest-held attitudes and daily approach to life and relationships.
© Brisbane Catholic Education, Catholic Identity (2021)
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