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Belonging is for becoming . . . if for some reason it…

“Belonging is for becoming . . . if for some reason it becomes stifling, then the person may have to take the risk of moving on, no matter how painful the separation may be. Community as such is never an end in itself. It is people and love and communion with God that are the goal. But, of course…” quote by Jean Vanier
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““Belonging is for becoming . . . if for some reason it becomes stifling, then the person may have to take the risk of moving on, no matter how painful the separation may be. Community as such is never an end in itself. It is people and love and communion with God that are the goal. But, of course, a separation of this kind comes only after mature discernment and not just because being in community is painful or because there is a new leader we do not like!””

Jean Vanier

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Belonging is a step toward deeper connection, but if it becomes restrictive, mature discernment may require painful separation to seek true communion with God and love.

In simple terms: Community is a means, not an end; leave if it stifles growth.

Key Takeaway

Assess when community hinders spiritual growth.

Themes

spirituality community growth

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • marriage counseling
  • spiritual retreats
  • leadership transitions
  • personal growth

Key Concepts

discernment love God

Questions to Reflect On

  • Is your community fostering growth or restriction?
  • How can you discern when to stay or leave?
A Different Perspective

Leaving may cause emotional pain and loss of support.

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