One could simply say that this was to be expected, but good try anyway. Try again! One could become purely cynical and so why waste your time? One could explain it away by appealing to the banality of humanity. None of this sits well with me as it all serves to reduce human existence to its lowest common denominator. Aren't we worth much more than that?
I honestly believe that the Pope believes in peace. I cannot say the same, however, about our world. I share this on the basis that belief is evidenced in action. So the rule of thumb is - what we believe determines what we do. I just then look at my world and what do I see?
-Hatred and bullying too often prevail over forgiveness.
-We too easily believe the worst about others over their good.
-We so often see the other as a threat, rather than accepting them.
-We use others for what we can get out of them, instead of affirming them.
In our world, hope is in short supply as the overriding trend is to rely on the wrong assurances for life. Hand in hand, cynicism abounds due to the errant ways of humankind having their way far too often.
So what to believe in? What gives us a firmer stand in life, a deeper appreciation of the true worth of life? Why not believe in a God, shown by the poor and humble Christ? Why not believe in the God revealed who embraces the life of the poor? Aren't we all poor at heart? Aren't we a poor humanity, knowing our true treasure when we stand together in solidarity, with the humble God, the God with us? When we make this truly human stance in life, then the Pope's plea for peace in the world makes sense and is achievable.
Happy New Year!
No comments:
Post a Comment