Are discipline and freedom connected? Definitely. Consider a few examples: Mrs. Schilmoeller's fingers dancing over the keys as she plays a song on the piano; Mrs. Angie Schafer's encouragement and explanation to first graders, knowing just the right things to say; Mrs. Kudron's ability to check the tenor of her 8th graders to know just what they need to be engaged in her literature class...the examples could go on. How did they get there? Years of the discipline of study, the discipline of practice, the discipline of trying again after something didn't go well; and thus, the ability to act in freedom.

We all, including our students, are called to live a disciplined life. Even the root word of discipline is "disciple," one who learns or is a pupil of another. Living a disciplined life is not easy. It pinches at times. But the difficulties of it are purifying and refining us. The letter to the Hebrews (12:11) reminds us of this: "For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it." 

To what kind of discipline are we being called? Perhaps it is turning off the phone during dinner or committing to an hour of adoration each week. For our children it could be as small as brushing their teeth each night before bed, limiting screen time, or practicing their flash cards.

Whatever it is for you, have courage. You will likely encounter resistance. But the freedom is worth it.

Sister Mary Agnes, C.K.