Although by nature some are more inquisitive, it is also true that inordinate curiosity can be indicative of the desire to distract oneself from the unpleasantness of one’s inner state. Not minding your own business but busying yourself with that of others can thus serve as a welcome distraction from the difficult interior work associated with deepening self-knowledge and inner healing and purification. Inquisitiveness and curiosity also serve to identify people on whom we can project some of the negativity that’s so uncomfortable to contain within ourselves. Unfortunately, this same process often identifies people who are better, holier, or seemingly more favored by grace than we are, and this can trigger envy and jealousy. Peter seems to have experienced a little of this in relation to John who seemed to be being specially favored. Jesus responds rather sharply: What if I want him to remain until I come? What concern is it of yours? You follow me! With the Holy Spirit’s guidance and inspiration let us strive to curb our inquisitiveness and idle curiosity, while simultaneously attuning ourselves more keenly to the needs of our neighbors and retaining fraternal concern for the wellbeing of each.
Calvin Dube says
Fr. Joseph… i liked the sense of mindfulness in this reflection! Thank you! Calvin Dube, Maine