Oct 27, 2007 |
by Annette Bridges. © 2007. All rights reserved.
Is there a God? If so, what is God like and how do I relate to this divine power? The recent buzz around the release of the movie The Golden Compass, based upon Philip Pullman’s first book in His Dark Materials trilogy, has prompted people to take a closer look at these questions. Although a children’s adventure tale on the surface, it introduces metaphysical themes, encourages individualism, and explores the importance of grappling with big ideas—of testing and proving them.
But the movie and books have also been accused of being anti-Christian and espousing atheistic beliefs. I was particularly intrigued by the publicized fears that readers or moviegoers would somehow be harmfully influenced, or that children would be falsely educated and begin to question the spiritual ideas that they’d been brought up to know and love. As I left the theater after seeing this movie with my grown daughter, I wasn’t feeling shocked or challenged in my beliefs. But I couldn’t help wondering if this controversy was hinged on a broader misunderstanding on many fronts about God.
Instead of being harmful, questions—even those that doubt the very existence of God—can actually open the way for greater dialogue about the nature of our Creator. The rejection of a narrow concept of God is all too familiar to me. When I became a student of Christian Science, I was presented with a very different view of God, Jesus, and salvation than the one I’d learned in the faith tradition of my youth. Learning that God was not distant but always present, loving me unconditionally, was encouraging. In fact, I’m reminded of Mary Baker Eddy’s statement in Science and Health that “the everlasting I am is not bounded nor compressed within the narrow limits of physical humanity, nor can He be understood aright through mortal concepts. The precise form of God must be of small importance in comparison with the sublime question, What is infinite Mind or divine Love?” (p. 256).
The search for Truth—essentially for an accurate understanding of God—is inherent in all of God’s children. And it appears among individuals from many faiths and philosophies. I’ve learned, in my conversations in the community, that sometimes even when people claim that they’re not interested in the Divine, what they’re often opposed to is authoritarianism and dogmatic approaches to life, which are devoid of true spirituality.
It’s impossible to deny that humanity inevitably seeks its higher purpose through a desire for happiness, justice, and increased spirituality. And it’s natural for creation to be ultimately drawn toward its Creator. This is something to celebrate and defend in our prayers. And it’s a basis upon which to build mutual trust.
But is there something to be said for taking these questions seriously—maybe even protecting ourselves, especially children, from the larger debate? After all, what’s wrong with wanting to shield them from controversy? I think the solution lies in encouraging children and adults alike, not to be afraid of raising questions about the nature of reality and their own relationship to God. In our doing so, they’ll be able to clarify and strengthen the basis for their own beliefs. As a parent, I’ve always encouraged our daughter to question and probe into any and every subject. Sometimes the dialogue at the dinner table, or in the car on the way to her dance classes, wasn’t easy. But these conversations often helped me appreciate her own ability to thrive as an independent thinker—as a reflection of the divine Mind itself. In fact, Mary Baker Eddy dedicated Science and Health to “honest seekers for Truth” (p. xii).
Throughout history, many dangerous thoughts have actually stemmed from the idea that the world is comprised of rival communities of faiths and belief systems. How might the world change if we saw differing viewpoints not as threats but as springboards for further conversation and exploration?
As I’m confronted with news reports of skepticism and disbelief in a higher power, I’ve learned that I don’t need to become preoccupied with the controversy on the surface. Instead, I can choose to see what unites each of us. Adopting a view that’s not influenced by fears or assumptions, but based on our tried and true real-life experiences, will allow each of us to bring more healing and wholeness to our fractured world. From this solid basis, the wrestling and seeking that lead to a better understanding of Truth are welcome.
Oct 27, 2007 |
by Annette Bridges. © 2007. All rights reserved.
For many, the holiday season inspires hope and reassures faith in miracles. But belief in miracles is not limited to a particular time of year. A recent 2007 Harris poll found that 82 percent of Americans believe in God and 79 percent believe in miracles, even though only 25 percent said they attend religious services once a week or more often. It seems that trust that the impossible is possible and faith in divine help are not confined to churchgoers.
Belief in miracles exists in all cultures and almost all religions. Of course, people in different faith traditions have substantially varied definitions of a “miracle,” and even within a specific religion, the term can have different meanings. But I love knowing that many people have an unbounded and hope-filled expectation for a future of unlimited possibilities. At least, that’s part of what believing in miracles means to me.
The word “miracle” is derived from the old Latin word miraculum, meaning “something wonderful.” And in the New Testament of the Bible, “marvel” is the simple meaning of the Greek word for miracle. So it’s no surprise that words such as “signs,” “wonders,” “marvels” and “miracles” are often used interchangeably. Indeed, in the biblical sense, miracles are signs and wonders — the extraordinary events that inspire awe and open the world of the divine.
Proponents of miracles generally agree that miracles actually restore the natural and normal order of things in accord with the divine. Some say it’s the habits of our skeptical human mind that prevent us from believing in the extraordinary and that cause us to view miracles as the mysterious, unusual and unlikely. In the same light, some don’t expect miracles from ordinary folks, especially from themselves.
Who’s one of the most renowned miracle workers? Many might say Jesus, although he wasn’t seeking such fame. Jesus lived a life of love — healing and helping others — and taught us we could and should do the same. He said, “He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also” (John 14:12). He assured, ” … for with God all things are possible” (Mark 10:27). And he also encouraged, ” … love one another” (John 13:34) Perhaps the greatest miracle humanity could ever experience is everyone loving each other in the way Jesus practiced and advocated.
Mark Twain dubbed Anne Sullivan a miracle worker for her successful heroic efforts in the 1880s teaching Helen Keller — who could not see, hear or speak — the existence and purpose of language.
Maybe you’re thinking, “People like Jesus or even Annie Sullivan were extraordinary people accomplishing extraordinary things. Don’t look at me. I’m no miracle worker!” But what if I said you could be? What if anyone could be a miracle worker? What if workers of miracles are not a chosen few?
What if your smile, your embrace, your kind words and encouragement, your thoughtful and helpful actions, your prayers, may be just the healing touch that brightens someone’s day, lifts someone’s spirits or even dramatically changes someone’s life? I suspect that many times in our lives we have not realized the difference we make or could make in the life of another.
I still remember the teacher who saw my potential, the friend who was always there when I needed her, and the stranger who listened when I was alone or yet another stranger who stopped to help when I was in great need.
And I will always be grateful to my mother for her unconditional love and unending faith in my abilities, my brothers for making me feel like the most special and important person in the world, my husband for making me feel beautiful, loved and wanted, and my daughter for caring, listening and sharing her love, inspirations and honesty. My list continues with more family, friends and strangers who have at one time or another impacted my life in some miraculous, wonderful, transforming way.
So I say, don’t belittle the effect you have on those around you. It’s not some small miracle that our paths cross. I have no doubt that you will be someone’s miracle worker today or tomorrow or in the years to come. Maybe you’ll be mine!
Oct 27, 2007 |
by Annette Bridges. © 2007. All rights reserved.
I’ve always encouraged our daughter to question and probe into any and every subject. No topic was off limits, including those that I hold most dear as well as those I strongly oppose. As a parent, I admit it has not been easy to have my child debate my deeply cherished and respected values. But the debates — and there were many — helped me clarify and understand better the basis for my values and opinions. And I hope encouraged her development as an independent thinker!
At age 24, Jennifer Gamel recently completed her master’s thesis. As a young woman who reads widely and goes to see the latest movies, she was, I thought, the right person to ask about the controversy and concerns surrounding the upcoming release of the film “The Golden Compass” — since I’ve yet to read Phillip Pullman’s trilogy myself, and she has. Here are my questions and Jennifer’s responses:
How would you respond to someone describing “The Golden Compass” as “sugar-coated atheism”?
I would cautiously disagree. I don’t believe this book, the first in Philip Pullman’s “His Dark Materials” trilogy, has an atheist agenda. Since Pullman is a vocal atheist, individuals are perhaps afraid his views will taint his writing, but as those of us who have read his books will attest, they are extremely thought-provoking — even spiritual — books.
Pullman himself has responded to similar questions: “In the world of the story — Lyra’s world — there is a church that has acquired great political power, rather in the way that some religions in our world have done at various times, and still do (think of the Taliban in Afghanistan). My point is that religion is at its best — it does most good — when it is farthest away from political power, and that when it gets hold of the power to (for example) send armies to war or to condemn people to death, or to rule every aspect of our lives, it rapidly goes bad. Sometimes people think that if something is done in the name of faith or religion, it must be good. Unfortunately, that isn’t true; some things done in the name of religion are very bad. That was what I was trying to describe in my story.
“I think the qualities that the books celebrate are those such as kindness, love, courage and courtesy too. And intellectual curiosity. All these good things. And the qualities that the books attack are cold-heartedness, tyranny, close-mindedness, cruelty, the things that we all agree are bad things.”
With all the negative comments about Pullman’s trilogy, I was intrigued by remarks of an assistant professor of religious studies, who is also a Catholic. This professor is planning to start a class on the trilogy and found Pullman’s books to be “breathlessly written adventures, rich in Christian ideals and theological probing.” In fact, this professor has also co-authored a book titled “Killing the Imposter God.” Your thoughts?
I would say this professor is in agreement with my own perception of the books. I don’t interpret Pullman’s writings literally. There is no denying that God is killed in the third book, but this God is not how I believe God to be. Pullman’s God is weak and useless and obviously able to be killed. I believe it is the concept of a manlike God with mortal qualities that needs to die so that a purer, more accurate understanding of God can emerge. Pullman’s God is an impostor and in no way corresponds to the traditional Christian viewpoint of an omnipotent and immortal God.
Some parents have expressed concerns that Pullman’s presentation of church and God will have a negative impact on young people. How would you respond?
I think some children are too firmly directed about how to believe spiritually. They are rarely given an option to stray beyond what their parents think, and I believe this is one reason why some young people step away from organized religion in their 20s and 30s. They are tired of being told what to think. Having a more honest and open approach with children in regard to religion and spirituality may have more positive results in the end.
Still, if parents have some concerns about their child reading a book such as “The Golden Compass,” they might consider reading and discussing it with their child. That way, the child is graced with the parents’ life experiences and opinions along with the author’s ideas. This is better to me than simply denying a child access to what some consider a controversial book. Nothing would have tempted me more than my mom closing a door on what I could read.
What is your view about boycotting movies or censoring books?
As a literature and movie connoisseur, this thought appalls me. My master’s is in Literature, and when I look back at humanity’s history, I see the evils of book censorship. Does that mean that parents should not control what their children read? No, but I would emphasize motive. If the motive is a belief that the subject matter is too adult or perhaps scary, then there is nothing wrong with it. However, if parents simply want to control their children’s thinking, out of fear that they will develop opinions that stray from the parents’ beliefs, then I am highly against it. I believe children should be encouraged to come to their own conclusions about what they are going to believe in, and such ability only creates better and more responsible adults. Reading a book can only broaden a child’s ideas and vocabulary. And that’s a good thing!
If someone asked you what “The Golden Compass” is about, what would you say?
I would say it is about a young girl’s destiny to make a positive impact on her world. Lyra is a good role model for children. She is strong and brave, not afraid to make sacrifices for the greater good. In many ways, this book (and all three books in Pullman’s trilogy) are genuinely inspirational about the power of one person standing against many for what is right.
— — —
So what do you think? Did I raise an independent thinker? My daughter and son-in-law are coming to town so we can see “The Golden Compass” together as well as go to “The Nutcracker” ballet. It should make for an interesting weekend — filled, I suspect, with lively dialogue!
Oct 27, 2007 |
by Annette Bridges. © 2007. All rights reserved.
It’s seven days till Thanksgiving, and I’m not home cleaning house. Nor have I done my grocery shopping for our Thanksgiving feast. Actually, I’ve not even made my shopping list yet! What am I doing? I’m camping with my husband in a very remote location.
Solitude during the holiday season is a gift to be relished, I’ve heard. My daughter told me to enjoy the quietness and relaxation before all the hustle and bustle gets in full swing. But I did bring along some holiday catalogs and cookbooks to peruse. And, clearly, I brought my laptop, since I’m typing this column as I sit at our camper dining table enjoying the view — hills, trees, sky and our puppy basking in the sun on the camper window shelf. The only sounds I can hear are birds singing, and I think I hear some cows off in the distance.
As I sit here reflecting on the holidays ahead, I’m wondering why the season of peace, love and goodwill is also a season notorious for raising people’s stress levels. The demands on our time are steadily increasing — from work to parties, decorating, shopping, baking, cleaning and scores of other chores and responsibilities. Yes, there certainly are many things I want to do and little time to do them.
Perhaps we get caught up in trying to create the perfect Hallmark holiday. Or perhaps we attempt to re-create the Currier and Ives Christmas of our childhood. Whatever our motivation, we may feel the pressure of the fast-approaching holiday deadline and become consumed with fear and anxiety that we will not accomplish the memory we long for.
Our anxiety is a good indicator that we need to bring a healthy and holy balance to our goals and aspirations. This reminds me of Jesus’ visit with Martha and Mary. Jesus and his disciples were on a journey to Jerusalem and went to Martha and Mary’s home in a nearby village. Apparently, while Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing, her sister Mary was listening to Jesus as he taught.
Eventually, Martha approached Jesus and said, “Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.”
But Jesus responded, “My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:38-42, Eugene Peterson, The Message)
I can’t help but believe that Martha had good intentions and was working hard to give her best efforts for her special guest and friends.
But I can also see that perhaps her overzealous focus on “details,” as Jesus described her busyness, was keeping her from listening and pondering the good news Jesus had to share. He was giving a feast that would provide an everlasting meal of strength and healing and an endless supply of inspiration and hope — sounds to me like a feast not to be missed!
Mary was not faulted for being attentive to Jesus’ teachings. It was clear she was not worried about anything else. She knew what was most important in that moment and made the choice to listen and grow in spiritual knowledge.
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus told his followers, ” … seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). This seems like good instruction for setting our priorities and making our choices. If followed, we could surely walk through holiday clamor and would experience the most wonderful time of the year blessing others and being blessed ourselves, too.
Then we will not allow time constraints to dictate and dominate our thought to the point of forgetting the reason for the season. We will leave room for quiet reflection, prayer and study, as well as rejoicing and praise.
And we will not neglect opportunities to spend quality time with loved ones. We will outline less what and how our holidays should look and be more flexible and open for new and spontaneous ways to celebrate. We will count blessings rather than what is missing or what remains on our to-do list. And we will observe and honor each moment, giving our full attention to whoever is with us sharing each moment.
No doubt we can keep our cool this holiday season if we keep our priorities in better, holier order, which will certainly help us make good choices as well as make lasting, special memories.
Oct 27, 2007 |
by Annette Bridges. © 2007. All rights reserved.
A couple of weeks ago I went on a day trip with my daughter to eat lunch and shop in a small town in Louisiana where I enjoyed one of my favorite meals — fried green tomatoes and Cajun meat pies. But it was only a couple of years ago when I ate my very first fried green tomato! Unfortunately, I’ve spent most of my life unwilling to try something new. And I can’t help but wonder how much I have missed.
Some would say we’re prisoners of habit. From the way we think and believe to how we react and behave, we resist changes in the patterns we’ve built for our lives. And from my own experience, not doing something or not trying something has also been habit-forming. But habits can be broken.
“Old habits die hard,” the old adage proclaims. In other words, if a belief or way of behaving dies hard, it takes a long time to disappear and is not given up easily. I suspect some smokers unsuccessfully trying to quit would agree with this. However, I have a brother who, after smoking for probably 30 years of his life, easily quit once he decided to quit. His firm commitment brought discipline and confidence. He quit smoking on New Year’s Eve 15 years ago and never broke his resolution. So, breaking an old habit is possible and it need not be arduous.
A recent study asserts we’re set in our ways when it comes to our habits, our tastes, our preferences, and suggests getting stuck in the status quo comes with age. The study sought to learn when we lose our taste for the new.
For example, survey results from this study concluded that most people are 20 years old or younger when they first hear the popular music they choose to listen to for the rest of their lives. And if you’re more than 35 years old when a style of popular music is introduced, there’s a greater than 95 percent chance that you’ll never choose to listen to it. I must say, when it comes to music, I guess I’m in the remaining 5 percent. But, that said, I still definitely enjoy listening to the music of my high school and college days, too.
When it comes to food, I don’t think I ever had the taste for the new, even when I was young. My unwillingness to try new foods became a bad habit early on.
But, why is repetition so appealing? Some suggest our natural tendency is to revert to deep-rooted memories. Some say we’re afraid of making a mistake, failing or looking foolish. Some believe we acquire patterns of behavior that continue to occur automatically because we don’t question or consider a change.
How can we break bad habits and stop misguided reason from directing our behavior? How can we keep our tastes from narrowing or lose our fear of change or unwillingness to try something new?
Perhaps we can best begin by not believing a wrong concept of who we are, such as picky, addicted, fat, unreasonable, obstinate, unprogressive!
For me, the impulse to want to try new foods is a result of a newly gained self-image. For years I desired more order, balance and activity in my life, along with less body weight. Today, I’m 30 pounds lighter and happier and more energized than ever. I’ve also become more open-minded, spontaneous and hungry for all things new and different — including food.
In the Bible, Paul tells us that when we get rid of our old and stubborn ways, we can renew our thoughts and attitudes and see ourselves as the God-created inquisitive and spiritual child that we are. He wrote, “Since, we do not have the excuse of ignorance, everything — and I do mean everything — connected with that old way of life has to go. It’s rotten through and through. Get rid of it! And then take on an entirely new way of life — a God fashioned life, a life renewed from the inside and working itself into your conduct as God accurately reproduces his character in you.” (Ephesians 4:22-24, Eugene Peterson, The Message)
Take heart, my friends. You need not miss out on the rich, vibrant world out there with all the infinite possibilities and God-provided good. You are governed by God alone and are not enslaved by habit or limited thinking or opinions. You have a spiritual nature, a spiritual instinct, which is open and receptive to God’s expansive point of view that is ever new, fresh, invigorating and full of life. So, if you want to make a change or try something new, you can do it!
