Fr. Gallagher and I are often encouraged by the creative suggestions made by those attending retreats and seminars on the rules. One such area of creativity regards "storing up a supply of strength" as defense against the day of future desolation. How do we do this? Here are some possibilities, several of which were suggested by students:

Praying for future strength: Take advantage of the fact that it's easier to pray during consolation by asking for strength for the ensuing desolation.

Journaling: Desolation often claims power over the past as well as the future. A written reminder of God's closeness to be read during times of future desolation can be powerful. Some people, while in consolation, have even written a letter to their future self in desolation!

Keepsaking: Keeping a holy card or other reminder of a consoling time during a retreat, day of prayer, etc. for future reference.

Studying the Rules: Again, relish for spiritual things is heightened during consolation. Take advantage of this by studying the rules to prepare yourself for the future. Taping an abbreviated version of the rules in plain sight is a great help to this.

Planning for specific situations of desolation: If you have become aware of a particular trigger to spiritual desolation in your life, imagine what Christ's victory over desolation would look like in your case. One student compared this to "storyboarding" at Weight Watchers, where you imagine yourself at your next wedding reception, bypassing the fatty foods and choosing the fruit salad!

Choosing an "anti-desolation" song, prayer, or favorite verse of scripture to have at your fingertips when desolation returns.

An "anti-desolation card" that combines several of these suggestions (Here's one!)

Post some of your suggestions!