In the same way the life of an oblate is not bound to a set of rules and regulations. The Rule is a yardstick, a way of seeing the straight in the crooked. It is not in the Benedictine spirit to have a book of rigid rules. This does not mean merely physical stability but an inner fidelity to the community one has joined. But this stability is given meaning by the commitment to the deeper stability of one's inner being, a calmness and peace of mind, an ever growing rootedness in the Spirit.
All groups require a structure of obedience however informal.
Benedict emphasises the importance of mutual obedience and consultation. But the essential obedience here is that of the spiritual ear attuned to the Word of God which resonates in all peoples and all situations. And a quick responsiveness to this Word. Dramatic experiences of conversion may have their value but their meaning is in opening a new phase of life. This vow is a commitment to be always a pilgrim, living an ongoing conversion of one's way of life by an ever fuller harmony with the principles of peace, tolerance, selflessness and generosity and the courage to say the truth about injustice.