Ignatian spirituality has a lot to do with desires. Don’t just take it for granted that you know what you really want. Slow down and consider what things you desire. What do you observe about yourself? Some desires are hidden under layers of habit and custom. Strip away all the pretenses, layer by layer, until you perceive your most personal desire. If it is a sinful desire: reject it. If it is good: keep it and put it in order. Desire only what is good. Desire better things more, and desire the best things most of all. Christian theology and philosophy and spirituality help you to purify and order your desires aright.
Perhaps you have a desire for a son who will grow into fine young man, a dedicated Christian, an accomplished professional and a level-headed citizen. What a blessing he would be for us, and a blessing for you, too, in your old age! There was once a woman who saw Jesus pass by, and she recognized his greatness enough to shout out to him from the crowd: “blessed is the womb that carried you and the breasts at which you nursed” (Luke 11:27). How right she was! Does not every parent have a deep desire to see their children succeed? Nevertheless, there are deeper desires and greater blessings. Consider Jesus’ reply to that woman: “Rather, blessed are those who hear the word of God and observe it."