On Imperfection

There is a strong temptation to delay making a positive change in one’s daily living, or even to quit something new before one has begun. This is because we are human and fearful of the unknown (and sometimes we are lazy!).  So we must be gentle with ourselves. But it is also because we are human that we have a tendency to hold ourselves to unrealistic standards of perfection; therefore, we must be encouraging.

In his book, Ashtanga Yoga: The Practice Manual, David Swenson includes this inspiration from Cardinal Newman:

“Nothing would be done at all if we waited until we could do it so well that no one could find fault with it.”

Let us take to heart this invitation to begin the journey, and embrace our efforts and our imperfections; for perfection is not expected of us, only our best.

Happy Practicing,

The Catholic Yogi