Father Fessio

It's hard to believe that God exists, it's harder to believe that He doesn't. - Father Joseph Fessio

Father Joseph Fessio isn't just a priest -- he's a bridge between faith and intellect. He founded Ignatius Press (one of the most influential Catholic publishing houses), launched the St. Ignatius Institute (a leader in Catholic higher education), served as founding provost of Ave Maria University, and studied theology under Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Benedict XVI). 

These are the key insights from my conversation with him: 

1. Find God's will for you. 

Don't live by your own plan and then try to align with God. Instead, start by seeking His will -- and let that shape your path. "Don't make the mistake I did...do God's will first. "Many of the saints are so different from each other, but they all had the same desire to do God's will."

2. Have gratitude. 

Rejoice always, and give thanks in everything. This mindset transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary. 

3. Engage with great minds, and great silence. 

Reading thoughtful material shapes your heart and mind. At the same time, step away from noise. Pause, pray, and listen to nature, of God, to your own soul. 

Ask yourself every day: "Am I starting with God's will?" Before launching into your plans or chasing goals, take a moment of silence. Invite God in. Let Him lead. The clarity that follows will be far better than anything you could design on your own.