I have always found the response of the wise maidens somewhat harsh and unfriendly in these verses. Couldn’t they all have chipped in a little bit to help the others? I think this passage invites us to reflect upon the nature of responsibility.
As we grow older, we gradually learn that we have to take responsibility for ourselves. I think I learned this lesson the hard way. I remember when I was pursuing postgraduate studies, and I kept going to my supervisor for answers to my problems. At some point, she looked at me and said in a stern Italian accent, “Sean, you are an engineer; figure it out.”
As human beings, we can see and reflect upon what is happening in the world. We are able to see and evaluate what is happening in ourselves. We have value systems and belong to societies with norms and rules. Our actions have consequences, both good and bad. We are capable of making decisions. The conclusion of all of these premises is that we need to take responsibility for how we live our lives.
Blaming the world and other people for our misfortunes can be tempting. Indeed, some things are well beyond our control. However, we always have the capacity to choose how we respond. The way in which we do this is the measure of how we take responsibility for ourselves.
I think that God has given
us this gift of responsibility and invites us to take up the challenge of living meaningful lives.
Have I decided to take responsibility for my life? Do I take up the challenge of living my life meaningfully?
Reflections by Sean van Staden SJ
