Questioning a hobby

[GratefulLeper]

I would like your opinion in this matter, as I can see both sides myself so I am asking maybe if you have had to face a similar decision with your hobbies.

I have been playing what is known as ‘fantasy baseball’ for years now. I have always been into sports and this allows me to exercise my competitive juices, and also it’s a good way to keep in touch with my friends. In recent years, as my faith has gotten stronger, I’m wondering if this hobby is something I can really offer up to the Lord and whether I should quit playing.

On the pros side, it’s a non-dangerous hobby played for not too much money, it’s a decent way to keep in touch with some friends, it’s a healthy distraction, and I like the competition.

On the negative side, I am wondering if it is too much of a distraction. Even if I spend a half hour a week doing it, I could still use that time doing something else. Also, other hobbies, like golf or chess would be good physically and mentally, whereas this hobby does not serve me in any other area.

So my question is what is the best way to discern whether a hobby should be given up?

 

[CB_Catholic]

I would like your opinion in this matter, as I can see both sides myself so I am asking maybe if you have had to face a similar decision with your hobbies.

I have been playing what is known as ‘fantasy baseball’ for years now. I have always been into sports and this allows me to exercise my competitive juices, and also it’s a good way to keep in touch with my friends. In recent years, as my faith has gotten stronger, I’m wondering if this hobby is something I can really offer up to the Lord and whether I should quit playing.

On the pros side, it’s a non-dangerous hobby played for not too much money, it’s a decent way to keep in touch with some friends, it’s a healthy distraction, and I like the competition.

On the negative side, I am wondering if it is too much of a distraction. Even if I spend a half hour a week doing it, I could still use that time doing something else. Also, other hobbies, like golf or chess would be good physically and mentally, whereas this hobby does not serve me in any other area.

So my question is what is the best way to discern whether a hobby should be given up?

If it’s a danger to your soul or immoral or becomes too expensive/addictive (like gambling). Come on, now—it is a hobby. Don’t take it too seriously. We are allowed to just plain goof off and enjoy ourselves now and then. Not every moment of life has to be productive or instructive–we should take time to “smell the roses” so to say. Enjoy your hobby and the time spent with your friends.

 

[CalCatholic]

If it’s a danger to your soul or immoral or becomes too expensive/addictive (like gambling). Come on, now—it is a hobby. Don’t take it too seriously. We are allowed to just plain goof off and enjoy ourselves now and then. Not every moment of life has to be productive or instructive–we should take time to “smell the roses” so to say. Enjoy your hobby and the time spent with your friends.

 

[808Catholic]

I would like your opinion in this matter, as I can see both sides myself so I am asking maybe if you have had to face a similar decision with your hobbies.

I have been playing what is known as ‘fantasy baseball’ for years now. I have always been into sports and this allows me to exercise my competitive juices, and also it’s a good way to keep in touch with my friends. In recent years, as my faith has gotten stronger, I’m wondering if this hobby is something I can really offer up to the Lord and whether I should quit playing.

On the pros side, it’s a non-dangerous hobby played for not too much money, it’s a decent way to keep in touch with some friends, it’s a healthy distraction, and I like the competition.

On the negative side, I am wondering if it is too much of a distraction. Even if I spend a half hour a week doing it, I could still use that time doing something else. Also, other hobbies, like golf or chess would be good physically and mentally, whereas this hobby does not serve me in any other area.

So my question is what is the best way to discern whether a hobby should be given up?

Do you see this hobby bringing you closer to God or does it push you away from God? Most hobbies are neutral in this respect but some hobbies can lead you away from God such as NFL football fanatics who don’t attend Mass because their favorite team is playing at the same time Mass is scheduled. In general, hobbies don’t affect our faith so my opinion is to enjoy yourself but if your hobby takes you farther from God, reevaluate and make your decision accordingly. Have a Blessed Day.

 

[chataranga]

Greetings,
Here are some thoughts from -Introduction to the devout life- by Saint Francis de Sales.

 "Sports, balls, plays, festivities, pomps, are not in themselves evil, but rather indifferent matters, capable of being used for good or ill; but nevertheless they are dangerous, and it is still more dangerous to take great delight in them."

 " The harm lies not in doing them, but in the degree to which you care for them."

 " No one blames children for running after butterflies, because they are children, but is it not ridiculous and pitiful to see full-grown men eager about such worthless trifles as the worldly amusements before named, which are likely to throw them off their balance and disturb their spiritual life?"

 Your decision, but St. Francis made some really good points. What will help you stop and smell the roses better? Games or seeking God?  Blessings to all beings everywhere.