Saturday, February 4, 2012

Examination Time

This week we learned of the passing of the genius behind Soul Train – Mr. Don Cornelius.  Mr. Cornelius’ death was said to be a suicide and this crushed us [his fans] even further.  The first thing many of us asked was, “Did his life become so hopeless causing him to end it?”  There are many reasons being branded about as to the cause – illness, marital issues etc. – but our grief over his passing is still overwhelming.  His death is cause for self-examination for those of us who are left behind.  We often think that celebrities have it made because their money can afford them many luxuries while the majority of us can barely afford the necessities.  Albeit, at the end of the day we are all souls having a human experience – rich, poor or in-between – created by God for God.

I must admit that his passing really shook me to my core, not because he was a celebrity but because I know what it is like to look at a situation that appears to be hopeless.  Nobody can cast aspersions here, because we all have had our moments of doubt and despair when life situations just bombarded us leaving us little time to breathe.  Socrates, the father of Western Philosophy was always in the pursuit of knowledge; one of his more popular quotes is, “The unexamined life is not worth living.” From my perspective, this quote reminds me that a life which is not evaluated from time to time lacks room for improvement and growth.  Please note I make no judgments on Mr. Cornelius’ life, this statement is meant for us who are mourning his death to take a moment and examine our own lives.  Are we living authentically?  Do our actions reflect our deepest beliefs?  Is there some person or thing lacking in our lives?
The old Presbyterian Catechism began with this question, “What is the chief end of man?” The answer was, “To glorify God and enjoy Him forever.”   This question points to the purpose for our lives. It is my belief that we were all created with a deep yearning which can be filled only by God (Creator of the Universe – or any other ‘Spiritually correct’ name you may call Him).  Unfortunately, some of us try filling that void with various things like food, sex, alcohol, success etc., which cannot satisfy this yearning.  Philosophers all agree that mankind is going nowhere despite his craving for more – gadgets, material wealth, power, and prestige – if he does understand himself in the world.  We need spirit care more than anything this world can offer – the care of the spirit which can communicate with God.  

There will be times when we will all face despair, however, with the assistance of faithful friends, family and professionals (therapists, coaches etc.,) we can overcome.  Please understand that no amount of money or popularity can shield us from troubling times – they WILL come to us all.  In addition to the people God puts in our lives, He has placed His Spirit in us which acts as an anchor to keep our souls grounded through the inevitable storms of life.  When things appear hopeless, before giving up we can seek out Godly friends, and professionals and most of all seek God.   
Shouldn't we take some time from the busyness of life to examine our lives? I'm just thinking . . .

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