At Easter, family was piled around and with children running (wild?) I had a short conversation with Papa about my faith questions and the topic of this blog. Two things have remained with me that he shared. Number one, I have not lived as long as he has. Let me expand and interpret. (Pops, you will have to comment and correct me if I have not understood your meaning) What I heard him saying was that there is an understanding of God and the greater good and His plan in it that comes from years spent here. It comes from living through true hardships and true losses. Possibly even the sadness and grief I fear the most may someday bring my heart maturity in these questions.
And to follow this was the second thought he shared with me which was Romans 8:28. "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." It was his dad (my great-grandpa's) favorite verse. My great-grandpa who lived through a lot, survived hardships that I've only read about. Who according to Papa always always believed that whatever was happening on Earth, God always had his good in mind.
Handed down…
ReplyDeleteWhile I am sure that your Grandfather is an unquestionably wise man, I am not sure how responsible it is to accept the ideas of previous generations. Just imagine how many things your grandfather’s generation and his father’s generation got completely wrong. Each day brings new discoveries, understanding, and wisdom. Naturally, we are predisposed to accept the instructions of our eldest peers and for good reason. Their experiences can help guide us through life and avoid repeating the same mistakes. However, when it comes to a set of rules to motivate our decision making and critical thinking skills, I believe it is responsible to ask for more than the endorsement from a previous generation. I take issue with the “faith” aspect of any religion. In keeping with the spirit of your post, I look to our history and ask, -has accepting the orders and ideas of an unquestionable authority ever turned out well? I think not. I propose that nothing should ever be above question, and anything that is based in faith should be approached with skepticism and caution no matter who is asking for it or endorsing it. Handing down ideas not based in evidence to children, who are predisposed to accept, trust, and believe in what their guardians tell them, seems irresponsible.