After the Fall is the title of a play by Arthur Miller. It is the story of the main character’s reflections on his past angst-filled life. I chose the title for this reflection not because it will be a similar dramatic expose’, but rather because it will be about my recent fall at home.

Several months ago I tripped on a rug and fell, injuring my right hand and pride. Yeah, I know, people my age are reminded/warned to remove small rugs in order to prevent falls. Well, I’m a lot smarter now and the rug involved has found a better home. The doctor told me that nothing was broken but tendons and arthritic hand joints were bruised, which take a long time to heal. The injured hand was my dominant one which required some relearning how not to use it as well as developing other coping techniques.

The hand is getting better but the whole healing process made me aware of how difficult it is to change our habits, especially our “dominant” ones, the ways that we normally do things and the way we think about one another. I think this is especially true when it comes to our spiritual/faith life, i.e., what are the dominant/sinful habits we have – e.g., judging others, gossiping, refusing to forgive – and how hard it is to change them. To do so, requires a deliberate effort, a sincere attentiveness to change the way we see and treat others. In the effort, there will be trial and error and frustration, as well as the need to seek advice and support. And, what are the dominant/positive habits we would hope to have and maintain – e.g., daily prayer and reflection, generous sharing of our time and talent and treasure – and what actions can be initiated and sustained to develop those habits.

Our faith teaches us that after the fall in the garden we humans will face both the bane and blessing of our habits. Fortunately, we have the promise of the help of Jesus’ Spirit to help in our healing and change.

-Fr. Dennis Lynch