Pope Saint John XXII kept a journal to track his spiritual growth, which is in itself a great habit we might emulate. Some of this insights and experiences he reflects upon in his journal were published as Journal of a Soul. In this journal, he shares ten spiritual goals he had each day, which have become known as the “Daily Decalogue of Pope John XXIII.” These goals are practical and wise; they apply to every person no matter their age or state in life.
If we review these goals as a family, and set our own goals based on them, we’ll grow in holiness together! They are a lot to process in one sitting, so perhaps we might talk about one goal each day and try to live that goal together.
- Only for today, I will seek to live positively without wishing to solve the problems of my life all at once.
- Only for today, I will take the greatest care of my appearance: I will dress modestly; I will not raise my voice; I will be courteous in my behavior; I will not criticize anyone; I will not claim to improve or to discipline anyone except myself.
- Only for today, I will be happy in the certainty that I was created to be happy, not only in the other world but also in this one.
- Only for today, I will adapt to circumstances, without requiring all circumstances to be adapted to my own wishes.
- Only for today, I will devote 10 minutes of my time to some good reading, remembering that just as food is necessary to the life of the body, so good reading is necessary to the life of the soul.
- Only for today, I will do one good deed and not tell anyone about it.
- Only for today, I will do at least one thing I do not like doing; and if my feelings are hurt, I will make sure that no one notices.
- Only for today, I will make a plan for myself: I may not follow it to the letter, but I will make it. And I will be on guard against two evils: hastiness and indecision.
- Only for today, I will firmly believe, despite appearances, that the good Providence of God cares for me as no one else who exists in this world.
- Only for today, I will have no fears. In particular, I will not be afraid to enjoy what is beautiful and to believe in goodness. Indeed, for 12 hours I can certainly do what might cause me consternation were I to believe I had to do it all my life.
Imagine our lives would change if we practices even a few of these tips!
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