The Rev. Al Kimel has discontinued his blog, Pontifications.

In his final article, Namárií«, he notes:

Becoming [Roman] Catholic has brought many blessings, but it has not healed the sorrows of my heart. Indeed, in some ways it has intensified these sorrows. But this is all very private. All I need say is that I often find them overwhelming. God is silent. I am reduced to silence.

While reading his last lines I was struck by an allusion to the film Moscow On The Hudson.

As you might recall, Robin Williams character, Vladimir, defects to the United States. At first he is overcome by the vast differences between his experiences in communist Russia and life in the United States. He is joyful and giddy, full of dreams. As the film progresses he is overcome by remorse over his decision to defect. He wants to return to his ‘home’. But, he cannot go back. In his dread he cannot go forward.

To a certain extent I imagine that the Rev. Kimel faces such a struggle. We have an inherent discomfort with our decisions, especially when faced with the realities of the world.

Past the decision, you must find your place. The Rev. Kimel will certainly find his one day. The Lord is always merciful and just.

quaerite Dominum et virtutem eius quaerite faciem eius semper recordamini mirabilium eius quae fecit signorum illius et iudiciorum oris eius semen Israhel servi eius filii Iacob electi illius ipse Dominus Deus noster in universa terra iudicia eius recordamini in sempiternum pacti eius sermonis quem praecepit in mille generationes