Well, Terrence, I must say that is one of the most inspirational stories I have ever had the privilege of reading. Thank you very much for posting it here.
In middle age I am really trying to live more like Jerry. When bad things happen I think I put them in perspective more quickly than I used to, sort of like 1)don't sweat the small stuff, 2)it's all small stuff. I am noticing time moving much more quickly, though, and I think I would like to take a mindfulness training course to slow it down again. Has anyone here ever taken one of those? Or read the book "Full Catastrophe Living"? My doctor, who is young but looked like he was dying at one point and has recovered to full health, recommended both.
At some point in middle age, my mother came to the realization that she could not control what happened always, but she could control the spin she put on it. Very much like Jerry, in fact. She also stopped going to scary or violent movies, because she did not want these images in her brain. I am not sure what I think of all that, but I am definitely thinking.
Why would a good God create evil? I have no idea. I am clear that real evil exists in the world, however. Perhaps men create evil. Even if there is a God, it is difficult for me to know how much of Him we really experience, and how much men have reinterpreted the whole thing. I guess we shall all see when we die! |
