Category: Christianity & Church

Days Gone By

I turn 38 this year. While it’s not that old, it’s still old enough (older than many of my coworkers, at least). As I get older and think about all the responsibilities and pressures I have now, the more I long for my childhood days. Back then everything was much simpler. I didn’t have any real responsibilities as a child except getting my schoolwork and household chores done. I often played with my younger siblings or friends outside for hours until dark – especially in the summertime. It was a lot of fun. 

I remember my teenage years with all its angst, insecurities, and other experiences that come with growing up. I remember seeing that cute girl in class and feeling butterflies in my stomach and that feeling when that cute girl said, “yes”, at the school dance. And I also remember my first teenage heartbreak. Those days seem long ago now, but oddly enough I still hold those memories dear to me. It may be similar for you, too. 

Nostalgia is nice. It’s a wistful, almost magical, feeling that takes us back to simpler times. But isn’t that the problem? It takes us back. It can keep us from growing up and maturing emotionally – and even spiritually. What do I mean by that? Let’s find out together. 

A Lesson From Gollum

The Lord of the Rings series by J.R. R. Tolkein is a work that has influenced so many genres of film and literature – especially the fantasy genre. Even if you haven’t seen the movies or read the books, perhaps you’ve heard the names of “Frodo”, “Bilbo”, “Gandalf”, or even “Gollum”. Even rock bands like Led Zeppelin have referenced this series in a few of their songs. What I love about this series is how all the characters have depth. They have their own motivations that make them stand out and become relatable.