PDF Summary:A Grand Slam for God, by Burke Masters

In A Grand Slam for God, Burke Masters chronicles his remarkable path from pursuing a professional baseball career to embracing his calling as a Catholic priest. He shares candid stories of his early athletic triumphs, his growing involvement with the Church, and his spiritual awakening that ultimately led him to seminary studies and ordination.

Masters provides an intimate account of confronting anger and doubt after his mother's death, deepening his prayer life and devotion to the Eucharist, and transitioning into ministry. He also describes an unexpected return to the world of baseball through his work with Catholic sports organizations, mentoring seminarians, and serving as chaplain for the Chicago Cubs.

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Burke's mother's death, along with the support he got from his relatives and companions, strengthened his belief in a divine plan directing his life.

In his first year studying theology, Burke Masters received the distressing news of his mother's advanced lung cancer from his father. Although treatment initially shrank the tumor, her life was suddenly and tragically shortened. During a time of deep grief, he assumed the role of arranging the funeral services, offering his family substantial comfort and support. His relatives, accompanied by their respective households, arrived to offer their encouragement. Recovering from this traumatic experience took several years. In that phase of his existence, he grappled with deep inquiries regarding the existence of an afterlife. Several pivotal spiritual encounters played a key role in illuminating his path and clarifying his uncertainties.

Practical Tips

• Engage in regular self-care activities that promote mental and physical well-being, such as mindfulness meditation, exercise, or a hobby that brings you joy. Prioritizing your own health can help you maintain resilience and provide better support to your loved ones during challenging times.
• Advocate for continuous medical education by volunteering to participate in health awareness campaigns. Share your personal experiences to highlight the importance of ongoing treatment and monitoring, even after initial success. Your involvement can help raise awareness about the unpredictability of certain illnesses and the need for persistent care.
• Set up a dedicated email account for funeral planning to keep all correspondence in one place. This can help you stay organized and ensure that you don't miss any important information or deadlines. Use this email when communicating with funeral service providers, family members, and friends who are involved in the planning process.
• Develop a memory box or scrapbook filled with photos, mementos, and stories about the loved one who has passed away. This project not only provides a therapeutic activity for you but also results in a heartfelt gift that can offer comfort to the grieving family. You could collect contributions from various family members and friends to create a rich tapestry of memories.
• Volunteer to be an accountability partner for someone else, and find one for yourself. This reciprocal relationship involves regularly checking in with each other to set goals, track progress, and provide motivation. It's a way to extend the kind of support you value to others while also benefiting from it yourself, creating a cycle of positive reinforcement and shared success.
• Volunteer for a hospice or palliative care organization to gain firsthand experience with end-of-life issues. Being around those who are facing their mortality can provide a deeper, more personal insight into your own beliefs and feelings about what may come after death.
• Create a 'clarity map' by drawing or writing out the areas of your life where you seek more understanding. This visual tool can help you focus your thoughts and intentions on seeking clarity in those areas. You might draw a tree with branches representing different aspects of your life, and use leaves to note specific questions or uncertainties you have.

Burke comes to a profound understanding of his true self as a beloved offspring of the Divine, embracing his responsibilities as a faithful spouse, a religious family leader, a faith-based healer, and a protector and guide.

The story details how students undergoing theological training are provided with practical teaching to prepare them for their future roles in the Church's service. The initiative includes academic study within educational settings and practical experience in local medical centers as well as religious institutions. The writer outlines the quartet of pivotal developmental stages and recounts specific events that influenced his journey to ordination.

Burke learns to let go of his quest for perfection and control, placing his life's path in the hands of divine guidance.

Burke Masters narrates his struggle with perfectionism, which was a persistent challenge throughout his seminary education and persisted into the initial phase of his priesthood. The instructors at the seminary highlighted the importance of a well-rounded life, stressing the need for allocating moments for devotion, scholarly activities, leisure, and building relationships with peers. He began an online spiritual outreach through email to keep in touch with friends, sharing his reflections on daily scriptural texts and nurturing their bond with the teachings of Jesus. He soon realized that his achievements would not stem from his personal efforts during his time at Mundelein. He began to depend on a spiritual master plan for his life. He enhanced his spiritual bond through daily prayers, participation in retreats, solicitation of spiritual counsel, and by delving into the biographies of holy figures as well as sacred texts.

Context

• Perfectionism is often linked to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, as individuals may constantly feel they are falling short of their own or others' expectations.
• In Christian theology, balance in life is often seen as a reflection of the harmony found in the teachings of Jesus, who modeled a life of prayer, community engagement, and rest.
• The use of email for spiritual outreach reflects a broader trend in religious communities to embrace digital tools for ministry, making spiritual resources more accessible.
• In seminary life, community and relationships are crucial. They provide support, accountability, and diverse perspectives, helping individuals grow beyond their personal limitations.
• The reliance on a spiritual master plan is seen as a path to personal transformation, helping individuals to grow in virtues such as humility, patience, and compassion.
• Engaging in daily prayers is a practice that helps individuals maintain a consistent connection with their faith, providing a structured time for reflection and communication with the divine.

Burke's path to his calling was strengthened by the encouragement of his spiritual mentor and the solidarity of a group comprising seminarians and priests.

The writer credits his spiritual mentor as being pivotal in preparing him for the priesthood and in his personal growth. During his theological education, Burke Masters greatly valued the practical experience he gained through his involvement with a local church community. He renewed his dedication to serving as a diocesan priest, vowing to support people through the daily trials and tribulations that come with being part of a church community. He continued to cultivate his calling at a seminary in Omaha, Nebraska, which focuses on the formation of priests. The clergyman serves in five unique capacities: as a beloved child, one who pledges to a life of abstinence, a mentor for spiritual development, a restorer of spiritual well-being, and a protector of his flock.

Practical Tips

• Create a structured mentorship plan that includes regular check-ins and goal setting. This ensures that the mentorship remains focused and productive. You might set up monthly meetings with your mentor to discuss progress, challenges, and next steps in your spiritual journey.
• Start a small project that addresses a need within your local community to learn project management and leadership skills. This could be as simple as organizing a book drive or coordinating a neighborhood clean-up. Through these activities, you'll learn how to plan, execute, and lead initiatives, which are applicable skills in many professional and educational contexts.
• Create a visual reminder of your dedication by designing a personal emblem or symbol that represents your commitment. This could be a simple drawing, a piece of jewelry, or an item you carry with you. Whenever you see or touch this emblem, let it serve as a prompt to recall and renew your dedication.
• To pledge to a life of abstinence in a modern context, create a personal challenge to abstain from a common vice, like social media or junk food, for a set period. Track your progress and feelings in a dedicated app or notebook to observe the impact on your well-being and self-discipline.

Burke experienced personal development and deepened his connection with the divine.

This part of the narrative demonstrates how the protagonist's journey through the grief of losing his mother deepened his reliance on unwavering spiritual love. The book delves into his profound spiritual connection, showing that through committed communication with the divine, engagement with sacred writings, and adherence to spiritual ceremonies, one can discern the kindness and comprehending essence of a supreme being.

Burke confronts his anger and doubts, which ultimately leads to his solace and restoration through embracing the divine.

Following his mother's death from cancer, Burke Masters experienced perplexing nightmares and bouts of anger that left him in a state of confusion. He struggled to reconcile his profound emotional experiences with the responsibilities of his seminary studies. He spent two years attempting to manage his sorrow independently. In Omaha, at the center dedicated to spiritual growth, he experienced a deep epiphany that ignoring an injury does not contribute to its mending. Journeying alongside Jesus will guide you toward a renewed sense of being.

Burke discovered deep comfort and a sense of freedom within the sacred space of worship as he felt a personal connection with Jesus during his mother's passing.

Burke Masters received a profound healing from his mother's death at a silent retreat. His spiritual guide encouraged him to mentally revisit the night she passed away and to search for Jesus's presence in that moment. He received a profound vision of significant importance from Jesus. During the final moments of his mother's life, Burke Masters held her tenderly, evoking a scene reminiscent of the Pietà, but this time it was on the bathroom floor, with the roles reversed. Holding his still mother close, he was engulfed by a surge of grief comparable to what Mary felt holding Jesus at the place of His crucifixion. He realized that Jesus had always been present in his life. Overwhelmed with emotion and feeling deeply revitalized, he strengthened his conviction that God was always with him, especially during difficult times.

Context

• In many religious traditions, spiritual guides or directors help individuals explore their faith, offering support and insight during personal or spiritual crises.
• In moments of intense emotional or spiritual significance, some individuals report having visions or profound realizations that reinforce their beliefs or provide comfort.
• Silent retreats are spiritual gatherings where participants refrain from speaking to focus on meditation, prayer, and reflection. They often provide a space for individuals to connect deeply with their spirituality and find inner peace.
• The Pietà is a renowned sculpture by Michelangelo depicting Mary holding the body of Jesus after the crucifixion. It symbolizes themes of sacrifice, maternal love, and profound grief.
• The scene evokes a powerful emotional response, drawing parallels between personal loss and iconic religious imagery, which can provide comfort and a sense of shared human experience in times of sorrow.
• The reversal of roles in the Pietà imagery, with Burke holding his mother, underscores themes of caregiving and the cyclical nature of life and death, where children often become caretakers for their parents.
• Many Christians strive to cultivate a personal relationship with Jesus, seeing Him as a friend and confidant who is intimately involved in their daily lives.
• The process of revisiting painful memories in a safe and supportive environment can lead to an emotional release, allowing individuals to process grief and find peace.
• Christians often turn to prayer, scripture, and community support to cope with grief and hardship, reinforcing their belief in God's constant presence.

Burke abandons his pursuit of supremacy, placing his trust in the steadfast love of the divine.

Whenever Burke Masters returned from his theological training sessions, he noticed the profound turmoil and distress that afflicted his father. His father was wholeheartedly committed to nurturing his family and bolstering his partner. His mother had passed away, and his three sons had relocated. Burke Masters realized that the true value of life lies not in physical riches or ease, but in enduring the hardships faced by his father and coping with the loss of his mother. Our relationship with the Divine and the love we show to others are of the greatest importance. When he found true healing from his wounds and his experience of loss, he learned to trust in God's unconditional love.

Context

• Many religious teachings emphasize humility, service, and the relinquishment of ego, which contrasts with the idea of supremacy and personal dominance.
• Many philosophical and religious teachings emphasize the importance of love and faith as central to a meaningful life, transcending material concerns.
• With the relocation of his sons, Burke's father might feel isolated or disconnected, intensifying his emotional struggles.
• The ability to nurture a family during difficult times often requires significant psychological resilience and coping mechanisms to manage stress and maintain stability.
• Ensuring financial stability could have been a priority, allowing his partner to feel secure and less burdened by economic concerns.
• The loss of a mother can alter family dynamics, especially if she played a central role in maintaining family cohesion and support.
• Literature often explores the theme of enduring hardships as a path to wisdom and maturity. Characters in novels frequently undergo trials that lead to personal transformation and insight.
• For many, the loss of a loved one prompts deep spiritual reflection and can lead to a strengthened or redefined relationship with their faith or beliefs.
• Many people find that a strong spiritual connection helps cultivate inner peace and resilience, allowing them to cope better with stress, loss, and adversity by fostering a sense of hope and trust in a higher power.
• Showing love can inspire others to act similarly, creating a ripple effect that can lead to widespread positive change.
• Engaging in therapeutic practices such as counseling or spiritual direction can provide tools and insights for processing emotions and moving forward.
• In many religious traditions, God's love is seen as unconditional, meaning it is given freely without conditions or limitations, offering comfort and strength during difficult times.

Burke's faith deepens through regular prayer, participation in holy ceremonies, and diligent examination of the scriptures.

The story chronicles his transition from studying theology to embracing his responsibilities as a clergyman, a period in which he developed essential abilities that strengthened his own spiritual growth and his ability to support others.

Burke's regular Eucharistic Adoration and study of the Bible deepen his relationship with Christ.

While studying at the seminary, Burke Masters was advised to postpone offering spiritual guidance to others until he had accumulated several years of experience after his ordination. His understanding deepened as he experienced various events. He realized the importance of acknowledging his limitations and making certain that his ministry did not consume all his time, essential for preventing exhaustion of his spirit or emotions. He frequently made Eucharistic Adoration a key part of his routine spiritual practices. He found deep joy in delving into narratives that documented the lives of sacred individuals.

Practical Tips

• Enhance your experiential learning by volunteering in diverse roles within your community. If you typically volunteer at a food bank, try assisting at a local theater or participating in a community clean-up. This will expose you to a range of situations and people, broadening your understanding of various community dynamics and needs.
• Create a feedback loop with your community by setting up a simple, anonymous online survey where members can share their perceptions of the ministry's strengths and areas for improvement. This can help you identify limitations you may not have been aware of. For instance, if multiple responses point out a lack of youth engagement, it might indicate a need to develop strategies specifically tailored to younger demographics.
• You can create a "Mood First Aid Kit" with items that specifically cater to uplifting your spirits when you're feeling low. Fill a box with personal comfort items like a stress ball, a favorite snack, a playlist of uplifting songs, a book of jokes, or photos of happy memories. When you sense the onset of emotional exhaustion, take a break and reach for your kit to help shift your mood.
• Design a "sacred walk" in your local area that connects places linked to individuals you admire. Research local history to find locations associated with revered figures, or create symbolic spots that represent their values or achievements. Visit these places regularly to meditate on their lives and teachings, allowing their stories to inspire your daily actions and decisions.

Burke's commitment to the daily prayers of the Divine Office and his frequent participation in the sacrament of reconciliation deepened his awareness of God's profound love for him.

Serving as a chaplain in a hospital provided him with the necessary abilities to assist people with their spiritual and emotional requirements. His presence was deeply meaningful to the families in mourning. Sometimes in life, no words are necessary. Offering your presence to someone in their times of sorrow and hardship can provide significant solace.

Other Perspectives

• The relationship between prayer and awareness of divine love could be coincidental or influenced by other factors, such as community support, personal mindset, or life circumstances.
• While serving as a chaplain may provide experience, it is also important to have formal education in counseling or psychology to effectively support people's emotional needs.
• The statement doesn't account for the possibility that some families might have had expectations or needs that went beyond what the chaplain could provide, which could affect how meaningful they found his presence.
• Offering presence is not a substitute for professional support when individuals are dealing with severe emotional or psychological distress.

Burke significantly contributed to and nurtured the spiritual development of others.

This section offers concrete examples from the author's experiences about ministry. He narrates the challenges he faced as he adapted to the language and traditions in his first role at a local church community, which profoundly challenged his personal and professional growth. He also sheds light on the way his mentorship of seminarians within the diocese influenced not only his own path but also the paths of those he counseled.

Burke faithfully fulfills his clerical duties, adjusting to the varied requirements of different communities.

Upon becoming ordained, Burke Masters was surprisingly assigned to a pastoral role at St. Mary's Parish located in West Chicago, where the primary language for the vast majority of the congregation was Spanish. His difficulty with Spanish presented considerable challenges in his community ministry, particularly in delivering sermons and facilitating confessions. Despite facing numerous obstacles, particularly in connecting with the community, he developed a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity, which in turn fostered a sense of familial bond with the congregation throughout his faith-driven odyssey.

Burke discovered the encouragement and fortitude he needed to overcome the early challenges of conversing with the Spanish-speaking congregants at St. Mary's Parish in West Chicago, thanks to people like Jesús Fernandez.

The support from the church community was crucial to Burke Masters' ministerial duties. He conveyed his gratitude to a parishioner named Jesús, who spent several hours weekly aiding him with his studies and translating his sermons into the local tongue, thereby enhancing the parish members' understanding. His homilies captivated the congregation, steering clear of the monotonous and uninspiring talks that frequently led to the listeners' disengagement.

Context

• Active involvement of community members in church activities, such as translation, fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens communal ties.

Other Perspectives

• The translation of sermons, while helpful, does not necessarily equate to aiding with studies; these are two distinct forms of support, and the text may be conflating them.
• It could be argued that the divine inspiration or spiritual guidance is the cornerstone of successful ministerial work, rather than the support of the church community.
• Some congregants might prefer to hear sermons in the original language for authenticity or personal challenge, even if they have less fluency in it.
• The focus on avoiding monotony might lead to an overemphasis on entertainment value, potentially overshadowing the religious and educational purposes of the sermons.

Burke's work in ministry revitalizes faith, mends relationships, and brings together the communities he serves.

The author skillfully depicts the tale of a young girl who, despite being ready for an expected end, astonishingly defied the odds. After receiving the sacraments, she not only recovered her health but also continued to live a relatively normal life. The author came to realize that the sacraments act as conduits for experiencing the divine presence.

Context

• Stories of personal transformation, like miraculous recoveries or life-changing experiences, can inspire others and renew their faith in divine intervention.
• Establishing support groups within the community can create a sense of belonging and mutual support, helping to repair and build relationships.
• His efforts might involve mediating disputes or tensions within the community, promoting peace and reconciliation.
• Being "ready for an expected end" implies she and her family had emotionally prepared for her passing, highlighting the shock and joy of her recovery.
• The belief in the efficacy of sacraments can also have psychosomatic effects, where the mental and emotional assurance provided by the rituals can lead to physical improvements in health.
• The young girl's recovery might have been unexpected due to a serious illness or condition that typically has a low survival rate, making her return to normal life particularly remarkable.
• Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Orders, and Matrimony.

Burke has the responsibility of guiding and molding seminarians in the Diocese of Joliet as they delve into their spiritual callings.

Approaching his fifth anniversary at St. Mary's, Burke Masters assumed the role of diocesan vocation director for the Diocese of Joliet. In the early stages of his career, he grasped the importance of assessing the true calling of prospective seminarians and realized that his mentorship would take on a deeper significance if he took on the role of a spiritual father figure to them. He offered counsel as they readied themselves, imparting insights and tackling potential hindrances on their path to exemplary priesthood.

Burke mentors his charges, emphasizing their importance as beloved children, partners in celibacy, fatherly spiritual advisors, conduits for spiritual renewal, and as navigators and mentors.

The author explains that he and his team of advisors wanted to raise the standards for admitting men into seminary. They wanted men who loved God and his people, and who would be willing to lay down their lives as spiritual fathers. While guiding seminarians, he understood the importance of conveying five essential self-perceptions, knowledge he acquired during his scholarly period at the establishment dedicated to clerical education. He also understood that part of his duty was to help the men discern their sacred calling. He understood that his function was simply to support them on their path, with Jesus guiding their vocation.

Context

• Understanding oneself as a beloved child of God can foster a sense of worth and purpose, which is crucial for personal and spiritual development.
• Mentors may offer practical advice on living a celibate life, including strategies for maintaining healthy relationships, setting boundaries, and finding fulfillment in community service and spiritual practices.
• As fatherly advisors, they serve as role models, exemplifying the virtues and behaviors expected of future priests.
• Throughout history, periods of spiritual renewal have often been led by new generations of clergy who bring innovative ideas and approaches to ministry.
• This perspective encourages seminarians to be lifelong learners, continually seeking knowledge and understanding to better guide and mentor others. It underscores the importance of ongoing education and personal development in their roles.
• Seminaries are institutions for training individuals to become priests or ministers. Raising admission standards typically involves ensuring candidates have a strong spiritual foundation, emotional maturity, and a clear sense of vocation.
• Candidates are likely expected to be leaders within their communities, demonstrating moral integrity and the ability to inspire others through their actions and words.
• The commitment to celibacy is a significant aspect of becoming a priest in many Christian denominations. It symbolizes a total dedication to God and the Church, allowing priests to focus entirely on their spiritual duties and community service.
• Discernment in a religious context refers to the process of seeking and understanding God's will for one's life. It involves prayer, reflection, and often guidance from spiritual directors or mentors.
• In the context of seminary and priesthood, spiritual fatherhood refers to the role of a priest as a spiritual leader and caretaker of his community, offering guidance, support, and sacramental ministry.

Burke Masters' judicious and impartial approach plays a crucial role in determining the suitability of individuals for ordination.

Burke Masters realized that the sense of isolation in his vocation could be a catalyst for developing a more intimate bond with the Divine. In his isolation, he sought solace through prayer. He also discovered the importance of maintaining a robust support system comprising relatives, companions, and fellow clergymen to ensure his well-being.

Other Perspectives

• The emphasis on Burke Masters' role could overshadow the importance of the candidates' personal experiences, convictions, and spiritual journeys in the ordination process.
• Prayer as a source of solace can be highly subjective and may not be a universally effective strategy for everyone facing isolation.
• Relying too heavily on a support system can sometimes inhibit personal growth or self-reliance, as individuals may not develop the necessary skills to cope with challenges independently.

Burke's unforeseen return to the sport of baseball in his role as a minister and the unfolding of a heavenly plan.

The narrative recounts a surprising twist that became a defining moment in Burke Masters' life. Having set aside his dreams of playing baseball professionally, he discovered that baseball made a surprising reentry into his life, guided by unforeseen divine interventions.

Burke's passion for baseball was reignited through his involvement with the Catholic Athletes for Christ.

In 2012, Burke Masters met Ray McKenna, the founder of Catholic Athletes for Christ, and learned about the group's purpose to disseminate the Christian faith by utilizing the power of sports, which includes assigning dedicated clergy to assist professional teams. Ray asked if he was willing to become the spiritual advisor for the Chicago Cubs. Burke Masters found it amusing when Ray brought up the Chicago team, especially considering his family's intense loyalty to the fervent competitors, the St. Louis Cardinals. Nevertheless, he gladly agreed to the proposal.

Burke is motivated to integrate his love for sports and his faith by creating Catholic sports camps, a decision shaped by his interactions with Mike Sweeney, a devout Catholic and seasoned baseball professional.

Masters narrates the tale, detailing his interactions with Mike Sweeney, the ex-professional baseball player who founded the Catholic Baseball Camps with the intention of disseminating the Christian story via the cherished American pastime. The expansion of the retreat within the Joliet Diocese can be credited to the motivation he found in their communal spirit. They have collaboratively played a role in leading people to enhance their spiritual connection with Jesus through the unique combination of vital athletic concepts and Catholic doctrine at these specifically designed camps.

Context

• Having role models like Mike Sweeney involved can inspire participants, as they see successful individuals who integrate their faith with their professional lives.
• The camps foster a sense of community among participants, creating a supportive environment where faith and sportsmanship are intertwined, encouraging participants to form lasting relationships grounded in shared values.
• Mike Sweeney is a former Major League Baseball player known for his time with the Kansas City Royals. His reputation as a devout Catholic has been a significant part of his public persona, influencing his post-baseball endeavors.
• In Catholic tradition, communal spirit often refers to the collective efforts and shared faith of a community, which can drive the success of religious programs and initiatives.

Burke combines his pastoral duties with his enduring passion for baseball through his role as the chaplain for the Chicago Cubs.

During his tenure as the Chicago Cubs' chaplain from 2013 to 2019, Burke Masters had the opportunity to conduct religious services at Wrigley Field for players, staff, and coaches. Joe Maddon, the Cubs' coach, inspired the author to bolster his spiritual beliefs with enhanced bravery.

Context

• Known as one of the oldest and most iconic baseball stadiums in the United States, Wrigley Field is home to the Chicago Cubs and is a significant cultural landmark in Chicago.
• As a chaplain, Burke Masters would have been responsible for providing spiritual guidance and support, which requires a strong personal faith and the courage to address diverse spiritual needs within a professional sports environment.

Burke perceived his unexpected opportunities to participate with the Cubs, like being part of their training, as signs of celestial guidance designed to fulfill his dreams of playing in the big leagues.

Burke Masters shares a compelling narrative of his profound experiences during the early baseball season of 2016. Joe Maddon became a member of the team's roster. While standing on the baseball field, Burke Masters was so filled with happiness and peace that he was brought to tears. His journey of faith not only paralleled but also fulfilled the aspirations he once thought he had to forsake. He found that God's generosity is without equal when you surrender to the divine intentions He has for your existence.

Burke acknowledges how baseball unexpectedly molded his life, reinforcing his belief in a divine plan.

Burke Masters' faith deepened as he engaged in ministry related to baseball. He found that devoting one's existence to the divine corresponds to pledging oneself to a more elevated form of servitude. The story underscores the significance of placing individual pursuits secondary to the overarching goal of dedicating oneself to Christ's service within the Christian community. God made it known that His intentions for us are beyond anything we could envision.

Context

• Baseball often involves mentorship from coaches and teammates, similar to spiritual guidance from religious leaders, reinforcing values and life lessons.
• Many athletes find that their sports careers provide unique opportunities to engage with their faith, often using their platform to inspire others and share their beliefs.
• Many Christians believe that true fulfillment and purpose are found in serving God and others, rather than in personal achievements or material success.
• Practically, this belief can lead individuals to be more open to unexpected life paths or changes, viewing them as part of a larger divine purpose. It encourages adaptability and acceptance of life's uncertainties.