The Finger on the Pulse

It was Henry Miller in "The Colossus of Maroussi" who wrote, "Warrior, Jailer and Priest form a Trinity which symbolizes our fear of life." What I think Miller is describing, by way of comparison to the Divine Trinity, is humanity's fear of a carefree, unhindered and self-directed life. In contrast, God the Father gives life (Creation), the Son gives new life (Redemption) and the Holy Spirit gives eternal life (Salvation). It is our pathetic need for assurance (blessed or not) that makes us establish authorities to guaranty protection for, rather than enjoyment of, God's gifts.

But, are we more carefree, unhindered and self-directed having more soldiers, police and clergy than any other country in the world? Are the public servants, who have their finger on the pulse of society, attuned to the life-giving gush of created possibility or the death-dealing stranglehold of threats, crimes and sins? Just follow the money for your answer.

Human nature, like a pendulum, swings to the extremes. We have too much education/information today, so we look to be clever rather than intelligent. Clever is lost, however, on the sensitive types who push for political correctness.

This sell-out approach galls the rebels who turn to shock jocks. Ultimately, the reaction to in-your-face is inanity whereby your clothes/shoes, makeup/make-over, popularity/unpopularity is news and entertainment combined.

The pendulum swings more and more assuredly as we strive for assurance that our fear of an uncontrolled life is warranted. The pendulum swings more and more sharply until one day it takes off our heads.