A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away…
On April 25, 2009, I spoke alongside Derrick Jensen at the Arlington (Virginia) Temple United Methodist Church (photo above). Ostensibly an “Earth Day” event, it was officially called “Earth 911: A Wake-Up Call for Obama Nation.”
Having spent 12 years in Catholic school, I was feeling “rebellious” when it was my turn to address the crowd from the altar. I told them how strict the nuns were with us in church and urged them to question authority by joining me in daring to say a curse word inside a church.
Most of the crowd was hysterically laughing as I counted down 3-2-1 and virtually everyone yelled “fuck!” The only person I could see for sure who refused was my devout Uncle Butch.
Right on cue, we heard a loud crack of thunder outside. Derrick gave me a “naughty, naughty” finger wag and I was quite proud of myself.
Part of everyone’s life involves looking back and cringing. I am doing so publicly now.
I’m also feeling grateful for evolution, forgiveness — and parables.
My favorite of Jesus’s parables is the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32). Even though I spent all that time in Catholic school, it was actually a Rolling Stones cover song that really brought this story home:
(I was once a huge Stones fan.)
Today, however, I’ve come to identify with the prodigal son quite intensely. Especially this section:
20 So he got up and went to his father.
“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him, and kissed him.
21 “The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’
22 “But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. 23 Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. 24 For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.
It’s a source of profound comfort to know that it’s never too late to turn back because I have not out-sinned God’s forgiveness.
Great account! I like the elements of it: grace, and the efforts toward it, with a sense of humour.
"Hey!" ~ Mick,
WHAT A TREMENDOUS LESSON, ALL THE WAY AROUND. AGAIN ! FROM ONE (who may have contemplated) BUT NEVER ENTERED THE HALLS OR WALLS, OF SEMINARY. YET CREATED, THRU INNER SPIRIT, THE MANIED UNDERSTANDINGS.
I think legend has it that one of A Bodhisattva's Powers is Transformation/Conversionoff Energy, bad to Good.
They're also get decked out by Heaven, tho' a bit invisible for NOW.
"Who is of smiling face, Bestower of all fortunes.
Whose hands are ready
To provide assurance
To the fearful.
And is adorned
By various ornaments,
With precious stones."
~ translation of Sanskrit Hymn {Enigma: The Child In Us}
Anywho.
Great Tale.
I Pray, You're GOOD-Proud !
(Oh yea Mick, you cannot sell these type of gems so you can buy food for your flock. They're Priceless. You'll just havta wear & bear 'em)...
HAHA !
Peace.