There are many little things that happen in a religious community, and things that others do or don’t do, or that they do differently from the way I would do them, that tend to annoy me.

At times I overlook them; other times I grumble under my breath. “Why can’t they do things the right way? Why can’t dishes in the kitchen be put away where they belong? Why is the dish towel just folded and left there wet? Why are lights left on when no one is there?”

The Word of Life invited me to do something about this. It said:

“Conduct yourselves in a way worthy of the Gospel of Christ” (Phil 1:27).

I have tried to change my attitude, accepting that others do not have to do things the same way I would do them, and that I have to exercise patience and love them. So, I try to remind myself of Jesus’ presence and say, “Yes, you, Lord, are my only good.”

One example: we have had a problem with roaches coming up through the drain pipes. I have reminded the others to keep the drains closed when not in use. Usually when I find drains open I make loud comments about it. Now I calmly and simply close the drain without a word and go on about my business.

Little things in our personality differences have also been a cause for my grumbling. However, I am truly trying to see God’s love in all this and I’m striving to love everyone as he loves. I find that more and more I forget to grumble.

Sr. B. M., Texas

Published with permission from Living City February 2010 the Focolare Movement's monthly magazine of religion, dialogue and culture | www.livingcitymagazine.com