Fr. Joseph Tetlow, SJ, responds to the question, “How can we use the Examen to better understand our experiences of sin or failure?”
He suggests that when we pray the Examen, we think about our experiences in terms of seven facets:
- Context
- Condition of mind and heart
- Perspective
- Perception
- Value
- Desire
- Decision
Tetlow advises that rather than asking about our failures and sin in the Examen, we ask about the good things we’ve done. Are we living out the virtues that the Holy Spirit has given us? Look at the virtues and graces, and see sins and failures in their true light.
Fr. Tetlow’s books include Making Choices in Christ, Always Discerning, and You Have Called Me by My Name.