I've been reading a graphic novel called Nothing Better. It's about two roommates journeying through college. The most interesting theme the story deals with is God. Is there one? What is a person's relationship to God? Things of a similar nature. The theme is worked flawlessly into the context of the rest of the story, which gives it a sense of true realism, of not knowing the answer. So many books give you a firm answer about belief. This story invites you to explore the concept, and through the exploration, deepen your understanding of yourself and your connection (or lack thereof) to God.
Each character has a different sense of God. Some identify strongly, others with a more nature-based relation. One character is an atheist and yet highly intrigued by the complexities of faith. I find myself identifying most with this character, Katt. The emotional rollercoaster, the uncertainty, the need to defend oneself against those who are convinced their way is the only way; yet, despite this, recognizing the beauty in creation, the sunset, the warmth of family at Christmas, the peace or joy in a carol, a hymn. I found myself humming "Silent Night," out of season. It's something to consider. We don't always think about the overlap in secular and religious music. I feel as though as a song can be holy even if it was not written in direct celebration of Christ. Besides, let us not forget the celebration of midwinter has been around for centuries unconnected to any church.
In any case, I am sitting here listening to Cyndi Lauper's Christmas CD, and thinking about birth, purity, pain... What it means to be human, to be alive. I'm thinking about sacred things.
Cliché as it may be, I have to say it's good to be alive. It's good to be exploring.
Each character has a different sense of God. Some identify strongly, others with a more nature-based relation. One character is an atheist and yet highly intrigued by the complexities of faith. I find myself identifying most with this character, Katt. The emotional rollercoaster, the uncertainty, the need to defend oneself against those who are convinced their way is the only way; yet, despite this, recognizing the beauty in creation, the sunset, the warmth of family at Christmas, the peace or joy in a carol, a hymn. I found myself humming "Silent Night," out of season. It's something to consider. We don't always think about the overlap in secular and religious music. I feel as though as a song can be holy even if it was not written in direct celebration of Christ. Besides, let us not forget the celebration of midwinter has been around for centuries unconnected to any church.
In any case, I am sitting here listening to Cyndi Lauper's Christmas CD, and thinking about birth, purity, pain... What it means to be human, to be alive. I'm thinking about sacred things.
Cliché as it may be, I have to say it's good to be alive. It's good to be exploring.
