Both Aristotle and St. Thomas Aquinas affirm that “the end is considered first in priority because it is the final cause and the reason for which a thing exists or acts. The end is prior in definition, because we need to understand the end in order to understand what something is. It is prior in time in the sense that the end is what motivates a process of change or development, even if the end is only realized later in time.
On this feast of Bl. Peter To Rot, we are reminded of the importance of having very clear in our minds and hearts THE END for which we live. Life is only meaningful when we are striving for a goal.
The end for which Bl. Peter To Rot spent his life was heaven, communion with God. In the context of persecution, threats imposed on his life on account of his faith, his eyes were fixed on the goal, he did not succumb.
What are your goals in life? Certainly there are many temporary goals you have which are part of God’s plan, such as obtaining a job, passing my grade 10 or 12 exams, raising a family, or embracing your vocation as God reveals it. But every goal in life must have one ultimate end: the fulfillment of the will of God so as to give Him the greatest glory. And what is the ultimate will of God for your life? Perfect union with Him now and forever. You were made for Heaven, and God wants Heaven to begin now by your union with Him.
At times, it can be difficult to look beyond all the daily goals, immediate needs, and practical details of life. It can be difficult to see the big picture of life and to see all things working toward the eternal goal of Heaven. A goal gets you motivated, while a good habit keeps you stay motivated. Does the thought of heaven motivate you to live well in the now and here of your current context as a student or salesian educator?
Coming to school will be a waste if you do not have a clear goal. First, have a definite, clear practical ideal; a goal, an objective. Second, have the necessary means to achieve your end. Third, adjust all your means to that end.
St. John Bosco puts it succinctly: “Walk with your feet on earth, but your heart be in heaven” or a piece of paradise fixes everything”.
