An interesting discussion followed the previous post and I think merits further comment. I have wrestled with my faith, but I have never doubted it. While I love the liturgy, pray regularly and try (with moderate success) to be centered in the Spirit all the time, I have a hard time understanding and accepting some of the Vatican's positions. My faith teaches me not to hate, and I have to think that it is the loathing, of ourselves and others, that constitutes sin. The Capt. said it well in his comment that inspired this post:
In general it boils down to the fact we are all human, flawed, who need to be understood and not idolized. The most rigid among us in terms of morality are often the ones most hypocritical...
My faith also teaches me that I don't have the right to decide for others, and I find myself impatient with those who want that right. Wanting to decide for others also violates a principle on which this country was founded, one for which so many have sacrificed. I object to some evangelicals' vigorous efforts to impose their religious beliefs on others, through law, and I believe we should be very cautious before altering law to take away liberties rather than grant them.
I feel the same rights to claim my religion out loud that the evangelicals feel, and my faith teaches me that we do not hate and that it is our personality, our emotions and whether or not we're governed by a generosity of spirit, along with the way we interact with others, in private as well as in public, that defines us. Ultimately, what we are inside, shows. I can't help but think integrity means appearances are consistent with how it really is and I know my faith teaches honesty. Guilt about our mistakes, helps us improve. Shame about who we are deep inside is self-loathing and violates the teachings of my faith. Eventually, it shows.
Because Grandma was right. Your face will get stuck that way. Over time, your predominant emotion will be etched in your face, whether it's joy or fear, enthusiasm or apathy, eagerness or hesitance, anger or tenderness, generosity or self-consciousness, trust or opposition. If you live long enough, what comes instinctively from inside of you will show. It's called wrinkles.
I don't always understand my faith, and sometimes I get angry and impatient, but I believe it's important not to be too certain and to always remember to question my part in it all. I believe that real Christians live it, and that they're governed by a generous and inclusive love, because I'm sure that if I'm lucky enough to grow old, whatever it is that came from my heart will show. Given time, it will look just as it is. My face will get stuck that way. I want it to fit.
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