Mixed Signals--How do we know if it's God's calling or our own?

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(the way I found this site was by Googling “my boyfriend wants to become a priest”)
That reminds me. In one of the threads I looked at earlier, a guy was talking about a meeting he’d had with a girl who’d just decided to become a nun. What hit me most about his description was how peaceful she seemed, even though she’d had to break up with her boyfriend of two years to make the decision. I’ve never seen that look of peace on my ex’s face… Oh never mind.
 
The thing I don’t know is if he said that in response to my email or if it was a reaction to the time we spent together. It’s possible he meant he will never think of me romantically again because something in him died that night–maybe he realized this was the last time we’d ever be together; perhaps something in him was finalized that night; maybe I disappointed him somehow. I just don’t know.

So perhaps I was wrong to say I felt “two inches tall.” Rather, I think I was just crushed. Here it was, less than 48 hours after discovering that the man I’ve always loved still cares about me, and I was being “dismissed” (so to speak). It was all very hard to take.

Also, it’s true–one serious relationship in seven years is probably too few. It’s difficult, though, because I haven’t met anyone since my ex who has truly captured my interest. I am also someone who gives everything 110 percent, and I’ve been known to do that with relationships that didn’t deserve that kind of energy in the past. Let’s just say I’ve learned to be selective. 😉

I figure God is using this time and these experiences to sculpt my character and help me relate to others better in the future.
Ah, I see what you are saying! Well, I don’t know, maybe after your meeting he felt guilty, prayed, and felt that he sinned and should be a priest. Then he wanted to cut things off with you “for God” and wrote that.

It’s really hard to judge.

I’m sorry for what you’re going through :(. But you seem strong!

I personally wish the Church would allow priests marry like it used to in the past and still does in the Eastern Rites. I guess it would cost a lot more because the priests would need more resources to support families. But clergymen in all other faiths are able to support families.
 
I personally wish the Church would allow priests marry like it used to in the past and still does in the Eastern Rites. I guess it would cost a lot more because the priests would need more resources to support families. But clergymen in all other faiths are able to support families.
I’ve been thinking the same thing. I know there are reasons for requiring priests to be celibate, and I know Paul said he wished that “all men were as I am,” but I also believe marriage is a gift from God. In the Garden of Eden, God realized Adam needed companionship; that’s why He created Eve. He also calls the Church His bride. So what’s so bad about marriage?

Umm… I’m sure I sound ignorant. I’ve been meaning to research when the Church stopped allowing priests to marry and why. I understand the cost factor, but there’s got to be more to it than that.
 
One more thought: It’s almost like they expect priests to be superhuman. I mean, I know that God calls them for a reason, but even “chosen” people have needs. I find my interpersonal relationships are often what get me through difficult times; I don’t know what I’d do without my friends… And I’m sure priests find companionship with one another. But still… My ex sounded incredibly lonely when we talked. It made me sad.

I say none of this to criticize the Church, though. I hope you know that!
 
So… Can I scratch my last post? I feel silly for having said the things I did. Whether or not priests should be allowed to marry is not the issue and not something I ever intended to argue. I know there are good reasons for why the Church requires priests to be celibate. Please, forgive me. 😦

Also, thank you–all of you–for your concern. It’s meant a lot to me.
 
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