Repetition and the Way of the Cross

 
by John Horvat II

The
life of a Christian involves suffering and the carrying of one’s cross
daily. One way this is done is by the constant and often grueling
repetition of tasks that are part of developing a trade or craft.


However, such repetition is not without its purpose. In fact, it aids
in the  development of skills and the production of beautiful products
or arts. Indeed, practice makes perfect.




Richard Sennett reports that as skills expand, the capacity to sustain repetition also increases.
He mentions the so-called Isaac Stern rule in music, in which the great
violinist declared “the better your technique, the longer you can
rehearse without becoming bored” (Richard Sennett, The Craftsman, Yale
University Press, New Haven, 2008, p. 38).




In those times of grueling repetition, there are those “Eureka”
moments embedded in routine that lead to the reward of great cultural
masterpieces and accomplishments. In short, the way of the cross in
daily life leads to a rich and fabulous culture marked by great efforts
and insights.

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