Kayla Hammond - Self-Abandonment To Divine Providence

     In researching for the final paper I came across this book on removal of self in order to truly be at peace with God.  I believe this class assisted in my abilities to understand the meanings of this book. It discussed many deeper philosophical concepts that was also discussed in class. Mostly reflecting on the idea of emptying of one self, in relation to class concepts the author encouraged the to decenter oneself from the I and thou. In the book it made clear that God is the one and only to be worshipped therefore we should recognize him as such rather than using him. One thing that stuck with me following this reading was the idea that God created everything therefore all things belong to him, including us. In order to achieve full closeness with God one must completely empty of themselves and do everything for the will of God.

This book was an interesting read through it left me with a lasting impression and many thoughts. This consisted of the following: 

- In a world where we are so accustomed to self absorption and may be ignorant to it, the decentering of self seems nearly impossible e

- I reflected on social media in how it may be worshipping others that are not of God or how it encourages self absorption through constant picture posting

This concept of decentering yourself was so beautifully written in this book that partially I felt a desire to sell everything and live in a van. However, I also tried to picture myself going one day without social media and found it hard to imagine. I thought to myself how would I be able to keep up with all of my "friends" and would anyone care if I disappeared from social media? 


Father J. P. de Caussade, S. J. (1959). Self-Abandonment to Divine Providence

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