Perspective, a noun is defined as: a particular attitude toward or way of regarding something; a point of view. Synonyms include: position, stance, frame of mind, approach, interpretation. Being an admirer of the works of J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis when I came across “A Hobbit, A Wardrobe and A Great War” by Joseph Loconte, I was intrigued. I discovered many historic events of the early 1900s of which I am only vaguely familiar. This work enlightened me to dig a little. As Mr. Loconte’s subtitle reveals, this book is about “How J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis Rediscovered Faith, Friendship and Heroism in the Cataclysm of 1914-1918.” In case you are unfamiliar with these years, it was during the First World War, also commonly referred to as “The Great War” and “the war to end all wars” or World War I. Image via Vi Gene Looking back to my younger years, one of many of my fondest memories of home were Sunday afternoon conversations and discussions between my father and grandfathers, which were interesting to say the least. My grandfathers, who both served in World War II, referred to The Great War in some of those discussions. Being somewhat interested in and intrigued by history, I listened in earnest and wondered about their analysis and viewpoints, and what amazing and horrible things they were subjected to during their tours of duty. Drawn to history, recently I viewed the movie “1917”. By the way, if you have not had the opportunity to watch this movie, I recommend you do so, especially if you have history interests. Based during the time period and events of the First World War, this picture follows the assignment of two messengers referred to as runners, or “trench runners,” through harrowing circumstances and experiences. Image via Vi Gene There are many productions and publications on the wars of the world, whether it be those of the world wars involving nations against nations, family feuds or those of brother against brother. From the first fatal offense delivered by Cain against his brother Abel to today’s despicable human trafficking, ongoing terrorist attacks, the storming of nations’ capitals and kidnappings of hundreds of students from classrooms, warring and wars against our brothers and sisters seem to be ever ongoing and recurring atrocities. Not to make light of the seriousness of destruction and devastation of lives, land and life-long permanent effects of war-like events, M.A.S.H, Season 3, Episode 19, entitled “Aid Station” reflects the effects on perspective. The episode parallels the chaotic life-and-death situation at the aid station with the relatively calmer atmosphere at the field hospital. At the end of the episode we see a change in perspective. After their harrowing experience near the front line where the chief surgeon and head nurse “pinch-hit” until replacements are assigned to the Aid Station, the day-to-day complacency of the norm back at the field hospital seem welcoming yet inappropriate. Regardless of our current circumstances, reflecting on events of the past, and the current ones taking place sometimes at our front doors, should be humbling, thought-provoking and outrageously yet profoundly eye-opening! Perspective. It changes hearts and thoughts, even beliefs. As citizens of this world, let us awaken to open-mindedness and living outside our own realm of self-centeredness. Christ relates to us with an abundance of compassion, faith, grace, love and mercy. These attributes are mentioned in Scripture numerous times: compassion 82 times, faith 458 times, grace 124 times, mercy 126 times and love 686 times. In the New Testament of the Bible 1st Corinthians 13:13 states, “...faith, hope and love...the greatest of these is love.” Oh that we all would exert these attributes along with understanding as our response to our brothers and sisters around this world; and prayerfully, let their responses be the same to us and that our perspectives would be like that of Christ. ta ta for now
Vi Gene
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