JOURNEYING WITH YOUTH
By Fr Peter Hosking SJ, Rector, Saint Ignatius’ College Adelaide
Stillness is something we don’t always make time for. Life today feels like a never-ending stream of notifications, social media, schoolwork and entertainment all competing for our attention. It’s easy to get caught up in the noise, always moving, always distracted. But when was the last time you stopped to check in with yourself — or listened for something deeper, like your own thoughts or even God’s voice?
Being young today isn’t always easy. There’s pressure to keep up, the fear of missing out, and the constant pull of digital distractions. We chase the next post, video, or like, hoping to feel satisfied. But instead, we often feel restless, like something’s missing. That emptiness? It’s not from the good spirit.
Social media can make it seem like our worth is measured in likes and comments, leaving us feeling insecure and disconnected. But Saint Ignatius reminds us that real freedom comes when we choose what truly nourishes our soul. Sometimes, that means stepping away from the noise and choosing real connections—through reflection, deep conversations, or simply being present in the moment.
Ignatius discovered this himself while recovering from an injury. With nothing to do, he daydreamed—sometimes about fame and success, other times about following God. At first, both seemed exciting, but he noticed a difference: thoughts of fame gave him a quick rush but left him feeling empty, while thoughts of God brought lasting peace and joy. This experience became the foundation of Ignatian discernment — learning to recognise what draws us closer to God and what pulls us away.
Life is full of choices, and Ignatius teaches us to pay attention to our inner movements. Consolation — the sense of peace, joy, and purpose — is like walking in the light. It brings us closer to God. Desolation, on the other hand, feels like stumbling in the dark — characterised by confusion, self-doubt, and distance from God. Even in those tough times, God’s light is still there, hidden like stars behind the clouds. The light always returns — we just need to trust it.
The bad spirit tries to pull us away, planting seeds of doubt, discouragement, and isolation. It makes us feel like we’re not good enough, tempting us to avoid what’s right or to push away people who lift us up. But when we recognise this, we can respond differently. In moments of desolation, don’t make big decisions. Instead, talk to someone you trust, or you can pray, and remember that God hasn’t abandoned you.
The good spirit, on the other hand, leads us toward faith, hope, and love. Even in struggles, this spirit brings peace and inspires us to do good. Gratitude and clarity come from the good spirit, helping us grow closer to God and others. To nurture this spirit, stay aware, practise gratitude, and follow where faith, hope, and love lead you.
Stillness isn’t just about doing nothing — it’s where we find God’s presence. Jesus often took time to pray in quiet, and Ignatius encouraged the Examen, a daily reflection on where God has been in our lives. Even just a minute a day to pause, breathe, and reflect can help us stay grounded, grateful, and open to God’s guidance.
In a world that never stops, can you take a moment to be still? True strength isn’t about always moving — it’s about knowing when to pause, like a rock that stays steady, even as waves crash against it.
Stillness isn’t the opposite of action—it’s what makes our actions more meaningful. Let’s make space for moments of peace, goodness, and love.
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