The process of becoming is dynamic and ongoing throughout my lifetime. I am a person with a particular set of genes and characteristics inherited from my parents.

I become the person I want to become through various life experiences -- not only through the experiences themselves, but also through my perception of them, my emotional responses to them, my understanding of them and my reflection on them.

In Benedictine terms, this is a process of conversion, of turning from an old way to take on the new.

Awareness is the nourishment that helps me become the person I want to become.

When I am aware of my body and its needs, I can take care of my physical being in a more intentional way. When I am aware of my surroundings -- my family and friends, my home, my workplace, Earth itself -- I become a better steward of these sacred gifts.

Free to change

When I become aware of my habits, the patterns that shape my life, my emotions, my motivations, I become ever more free to make changes toward becoming the person I want to be. Jesus said, "The truth will set you free."

Awareness is like a pair of glasses. When I use the glasses, everything comes into focus. I can see clearly. When I am aware I see the truth more clearly, and I am free to make choices. I am free to grow.

How do I become aware? I become aware by listening. The "Rule of St. Benedict" opens with the word "listen," the foundation of the Benedictine monastic way.

I listen to the God who dwells within me, to the God of Earth and universe, to church and community. I listen to family and friends, to my body, to society and to my own deepest desires.

Space for listening

Listening is hard, especially in our overworked, fast-paced and overbooked society. I need to give myself the space and time it takes for listening.

Where do I listen best? In my bedroom or den? At the ocean? Under a favorite tree or on top of a favorite mountain? In church or temple? Find a place, and go there often to listen.

I also need quiet. This, too, is a challenge because I am surrounded by so much noise. Find quiet. Early morning or late evening works best for me. Let the silence calm you and bring you to awareness.

When I am aware, I SEE what is happening in my life. I TASTE my food and my drink. I TOUCH the textures of my life. I SMELL the air's freshness or lack of it. I HEAR the words and the meanings. I FEEL my vitality or my need for rest.

The more aware I am the more congruent my life becomes, actions matching intentions.

I am free to become more and more the person God intends.

Sister Monika Ellis, OSB, is a member of The Priory Spirituality Center. Perspective is coordinated by Associated Ministries in cooperation with The Olympian. The views expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily endorsed by Associated Ministries or The Olympian.