By Chris A. Quilpa

Amid the active politics and lively demonstrations of democracy surrounding us, there seems to be something missing at our discussion table. This self-conscious activity or introspection can lead us to analyze our thoughts, actions and behaviors, with the purpose of having a clear conscience after all the necessary positive adjustments we have made in our life.

Ordinary or extraordinary people we are, we have all done things we’re ashamed of. There are moments when guilty thoughts haunt us. At times, we’re constantly confronted with guilt that consumes us to the point that we can’t move on.

We desire to be the perfect persons we long to be. We want to be flawless, always trying to do everything right. But, inevitably, we falter. We misstep; we fall short and commit an egregious mistake or offense. Only then do we realize that what we have done is deplorable, hurtful or sinful.

In our journey to deepening of our faith and spirituality, an examination of conscience is important. If atonement and penance are to be achieved, we have to look at who we are and where we’re heading for our redemption and salvation. As sinners, like those who became saints, we can always change for the better and become holy.

Dictionary.com defines conscience as the inner sense of what is right or wrong in one’s conduct or motives, compelling one toward right action. It is the complex of ethical and moral principles that controls or inhibits the actions of an individual.

Aware of our imperfections and capable of committing a mistake or sin, we try to resolve and settle things to have peace of mind and move on with our lives.

Why do we examine our conscience? To free our minds with doubt and presumed guilt. Feeling remorseful, we want to have a clear conscience and be at peace with ourselves, others and our God.

Below are questions to help us examine our conscience:

In my family life, have I contributed to the well-being and happiness of the rest of the family by patience and genuine love? Have I been obedient to parents, showing them proper respect and giving them help in their spiritual and material needs? Have I been careful to give a Christian upbringing to my children, and to help them by good example and by exercising authority as a parent? Have I been faithful to my husband/wife in my heart and in my relationships with others?

Do I share my possessions with the less fortunate? Do I do my best to help the victims of oppression, misfortune and poverty? Or do I look down on my neighbor, especially the poor, the sick, the elderly, strangers and people of other races?

Am I concerned for the good and prosperity of the community in which I live, or do I spend my life caring only for myself? Do I share to the best of my ability in the work of promoting justice, morality, harmony and love in human relations? Have I done my duty as a citizen? Have I paid my taxes?

In my work or profession, am I just, hard-working, honest, serving society out of love for others? Have I paid a fair wage to my employees? Have I been faithful to my promises and contracts?

Have I obeyed legitimate authority and given it due respect?

If I am in a position of responsibility or authority, do I use this for my own advantage or for the good of others, in a spirit of service?

Have I been truthful and fair or have I injured others by deceit, calumny, detraction, rash judgment, or violation of a secret?

If I have been injured, have I been ready to make peace for the love of Christ and to forgive, or do I harbor hatred and the desire for revenge?

Now is the time to examine our conscience, if we want to be at peace with ourselves, our fellow men and women, and our God.

Chris A. Quilpa, a retired U.S. Navy veteran, lives in Suffolk. Email him at chris.a.quilpa@gmail.com.