Many decent, thoughtful people have in their hearts a love of history, and often, an affection for a particular era. Whether the attraction of the era is the beautiful homes and clothes of the Victorians, the strong force of Catholicism in Medieval European society, or the military equipment used by the brave soldiers of the Second World War, the admiration is based upon something good.
For some, when they think of what the past means to them, feel a deep sadness that what they admire exists no more, at least in society at large. "Why can't things be that way now?" Some think. For some, this spurs them on to strive to rectify the wrong, but for others, it can lead to discontent with their lives.
I used to think this way, but have begun to think of the past, especially of things that have passed away, with gratitude that such things at least once were. At least their was once a time when women's clothes were consistently beautiful, or when Catholicism reigned supreme in Europe,or whatever other aspect of the past I admire.
I am not suggesting that nothing be done about whatever is wrong with the present using the past as a model for restoration. Far from it! Rather, let the past encourage rather than sadden most of the time. Think on how blessed we are to have good models to follow, unlike some who went before us. For instance, Catholics today have a model for the Christianization of society, while the early Christians had none to look back upon as teachers and guides. At least, they show us a way.
Let us be grateful for the past that is given to us.
No comments:
Post a Comment