Wishing Cont'd...

I had a few more things come to mind in the past day or so regarding what we've been discussing so I thought I'd share them.

The first thought comes in terms of the questions you've asked regarding why we are the way we are, most notably in the self-centered area, and how we can move away from that. Recently, I listened to a podcast that featured a panel discussion between three key emergent theologians and practitioners, Phyllis Tickle, Pete Rollins, and Brian McLaren. McLaren was asked a question regarding the movement's emphasis upon ecology and the like and his answer was quite thought-provoking, at least to someone who's still in process. To paraphrase, McLaren essentially said that we've become so enamored with and have emphasized our doctrine of the Fall of man so much that we've neglected the doctrine of creation. This was a truly beautiful thought because it does explain so much. Why do we have a throwaway society? Because we have a society that for hundreds of years has lived with the thought that "What does it matter anyway? It's all gonna burn up!" Now, while this may or may not be true, it doesn't give us license to screw the damn place up! Just thought that was an interesting tidbit.

Secondly, I've been slowly reading this book entitled, Endangered Pleasures by Barbara Holland. The book is somewhat of a nostalgic read as Holland recounts so simple pleasures that have sort of gone the way of the Dodo due to progressive technology and information but it also highlights some points of simplicity that we, as a wickedly busy and hurried western society, have just forgotten. Naps, leisurely strolls, hanging out in bed on lazy Sunday mornings. All of these fall obsolete by our postmodern standards. We must produce to be productive. As such, we must possess in order to be happy. Yet, this book points out that some of the most precious and delicious pleasures are those that come free and create the most beautiful and lasting memories. It's an interesting read that, while not directly speaking to our issues here, seems to hint at what could be.

- andy