I don’t know how much time it took to “pen” your well thought out reflection on how our inability to deal with the the brokenness of reality lead to sorrow or rage as seen in the great books but thank you. Reading this led me to meditate on the biblical practice of lament as an alternative to the approaches you captured for us. Biblical lament does not hide from the grotesque reality of pain and yet it is sustained in its weeping by its hope in One who is bringing to pass, though it be in ways beyond our grasp, the goodness and justice that our souls were made for. Please keep writing
Kenneth, thank you for this thoughtful reply. You have given me much to think about in turn. I had not thought of the Biblical lament, but you are right that it does provide another alternative form of response to the sorrows of life. I appreciate this insight.
Beautifully written Mark! The way you wove together the various novels and philosophical reflections is so artful and instructive. St. Francis de Sales advised one to “forbear the small things.” I’ve used that advice lately as my daily spiritual resolution and it is amazing how much this (virtually unobservable) practice helps me to subject my willful pride and indignation to reason and charity. You’ve given me much to reflect on here, thank you. 🙏
Thank you for these kind words, Amy. It's very gratifying to learn that my work has hit a chord. I really appreciate all of your support. All the best to you, Mark
I don’t know how much time it took to “pen” your well thought out reflection on how our inability to deal with the the brokenness of reality lead to sorrow or rage as seen in the great books but thank you. Reading this led me to meditate on the biblical practice of lament as an alternative to the approaches you captured for us. Biblical lament does not hide from the grotesque reality of pain and yet it is sustained in its weeping by its hope in One who is bringing to pass, though it be in ways beyond our grasp, the goodness and justice that our souls were made for. Please keep writing
Kenneth, thank you for this thoughtful reply. You have given me much to think about in turn. I had not thought of the Biblical lament, but you are right that it does provide another alternative form of response to the sorrows of life. I appreciate this insight.
Beautifully written Mark! The way you wove together the various novels and philosophical reflections is so artful and instructive. St. Francis de Sales advised one to “forbear the small things.” I’ve used that advice lately as my daily spiritual resolution and it is amazing how much this (virtually unobservable) practice helps me to subject my willful pride and indignation to reason and charity. You’ve given me much to reflect on here, thank you. 🙏
Thank you for these kind words, Amy. It's very gratifying to learn that my work has hit a chord. I really appreciate all of your support. All the best to you, Mark