“Only a real risk tests the reality of a belief.” C.S. Lewis

• Starting from a quotation by C.S. Lewis, this reflection invites us to leave behind haste and noise, find time alone and put our beliefs to the test.

GOD’S NOT DEAD is the title of an interesting film in which I heard the quotation I open this column with, a quotation that holds deep wisdom. It comes from the novelist C.S. Lewis, an atheist who converted to Christianity and author of famous books such as The Chronicles of Narnia, a story brought to the big screen with great success.

 

We go through life wrapped up in haste, with so much noise inside us and around us that we limit our ability to be alone. We have given up our time to connect with ourselves, our thoughts, feelings and beliefs. Our values are negotiated more easily, and we only keep them as long as they do not affect our lifestyle or interests.

 

Many people lead a double life. They wear a mask of righteousness and morality that is too big for them. Being willing to pay the price to keep our beliefs alive is not fashionable. It is easier to go with the flow. It is less compromising to behave in a “politically correct” way. In the name of “respect for freedoms”, the greatest abuses are being committed against traditional values.

 

People are afraid to say what they think so as not to be judged or harm their interests. Institutions such as marriage are being violated. We are polluting the minds of our children and young people, robbing them of their innocence through entertainment and the messages of some media outlets.

 

There is a great contradiction. In the name of respect, we are accepting being disrespected. In the name of freedom of expression or choice, we accept greater evils. We kill defenceless children and disrespect their right to be born. In the name of so-called respect for diversity of beliefs, God is being removed from our schools. Lying is in fashion. When we denounce what is wrong, we are accused of intolerance. What is happening? Is it a lack of love? Is it fear? Is it complacency? Where are we heading?

 

Let us stop and search deep within each of us for what is good, true and just. Let us summon our courage and call things by their name. If a show is an affront to morality, let us denounce it! If an activity goes against what is natural, let us acknowledge it! If a nation does not respect us, let us stand up to it! If taking the wrong path is easier, let us resist it! May God help us discern and make the right decisions to build a better future for the generations to come.