Spiritual discernment involves more than decision-making. It is an active listening for the presence of God in the options of our daily life, so it is important to recognize the personal and social dynamics that shape our awareness of God's activity in our immediate world.

So, take some time to consider the following questions:

• Does any aspect of the discernment disturb or frighten you?

Approaching anything new always raises the possibility of anxiety. So, as you look to this discernment, you should make note of any of its issues that already frighten or disturb you. Be clear about these concerns and try to explain them in as much detail as possible in your preliminary conversation. Also, do not be nervous about being unable to express more than a vague anxiety. Discernment takes us into the unfamiliar but it is not a completely unknown future. It is shaped by our own experiences and desires, aspects of ourselves that have developed over the years and which have brought us to the present where this discernment has become necessary.

• Are you experiencing any particular emotions as you approach these conversations?

As has already been noted, the issues of this discernment have been shaped by your previous choices and desires. So, it is important that you express a clear understanding of any other emotions that may be emerging as you begin these conversations. If you have insights into how these emotions already affect you, the conversations will become much easier since these feelings can be taken into consideration while you are speaking.

• Are any of the issues you wish to discuss marked by particular depth or complexity?

As you prepare for these conversations, be aware that certain aspects of the discussion will be more difficult than others. Because of the history you bring to the conversation, you may already have an awareness that a particular issue will go deeper into your emotional or psychological life. Explain this in as much detail as possible during our preliminary conversation. In much the same way, if a particular issue is highly complex and involves various aspects of your life (or the lives of those around you), then you should summarize it as fully as possible.

• Do you think the discernment will be emotionally or spiritually overwhelming?

Ultimately, you will find that God speaks clearly and simply. But we (as human beings) have a tendency to over-complicate our lives and our choices as we layer them with defense mechanisms meant to protect us from things which frighten us or which have hurt us in the past. Again, be open and honest in these conversations so that the truth of the situation may be revealed.

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