“Say the Holy Rosary. Blessed be that monotony of Hail Mary’s which purifies the monotony of your sins!” ―St. Josemaria Escriva

"Monotony"... a word that tends to carry a negative connotation, and understandably, because the things that often feel monotonous are usually pretty boring. Folding laundry, pumping gas, studying for a test... all of these things in and of themselves are nothing more than mindless tasks that must be done. But all of these simple of tasks, when strung together, can have a great impact on your life. What matters is your mindset. It's understood that these monotonous tasks must be done in order to have a tidy home, to drive your car, to pass your class, etc., but if you do all of these things with a bitter attitude, you'll feel pretty miserable all the time. When you focus the purpose, have faith in the potential outcome, and choose to complete each task with a positive, and even grateful attitude, the monotonous tasks suddenly aren't so bad. In fact, you may even notice that the monotony helps you become a better person and improve your outlook on life. The monotony may even become soothing.

Most of the framework within our own lives that virtue is built on is made up of monotonous tasks. What is virtue? The Catechisms of the Catholic Church defines virtue as “a habitual and firm disposition to do the good.” Compassion, generosity, self-control...these are all examples of virtue. But these virtues do not just happen over-night. They are practiced over time.

Praying the Rosary is an example of how monotonous tasks can change your life. Each Hail Mary you pray with intentionality and hope is like a building block that contributes to the foundation of a strong relationship with Christ. And we must remember that it is only in having a strong relationship with Christ that makes it possible to have a GOOD relationship with anyone else.

 What areas of your life could use some "virtue building blocks", otherwise known as Hail Marys, to rid yourself of bitterness and strengthen your relationship with Christ?