Thursday; May 25

While the Old Testament book of Proverbs is full of proverbs, not all proverbs are in Proverbs – if that makes any sense at all. There are several insightful sayings scattered throughout the Bible including some in Solomon’s companion book of Ecclesiastes. One gem of wisdom I found in that book states, “Do not say, ‘Why is it that the former days were better than these?’ For it is not from wisdom that you ask about this.” (Ecclesiastes 7:10). I am sure this saying is true on multiple levels, but it really struck me as I thought about nostalgia. I believe that it is easy and natural to think back fondly on days gone by. We tend to remember the good times and take the edge off of the bad. We are drawn by events we understand and morals we accept. Yet, were the good old days really all that good? Sure, I believe there are some good times in the old days, but not everything was a rosy as we remember. Additionally, modern times are probably not as immoral as we believe nor is the future as doomed as we predict. To quote another biblical saying (but entirely out of context), “each day has enough trouble of its own”.

Let’s recall the past, but let’s make sure to make the most of today. When we live in the present, we will be able to shape the future and help make it better for those who come after us.

Think About It!

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