There is no redemption for suffering. The ability to see light in the world does not make rape ok, does not liberate an abused sole from their pain. However, in a world where pain and suffering are inevitable, the ability to transform suffering into life is a vital skill. As much as we might try to isolate ourselves in safe communities, or safe hobbies, diets, and jobs, suffering will always find us: the loss of loved ones, self-doubt, dissatisfaction, and sheer confusion as to why things must happen as they do. As my friend Olivia reflected last week, in the realm of a reality of suffering, it is the ability to turn such suffering into something that gives you life that is the redemptive factor. (in the picture from the left: my "campo brothers" Chomingo and David taking a break from painting a mural for the local radio)
For example, if an individual were to lose a family member, a very close one, and be thrust into a deep depression, where might she find redemption? She cannot bring anyone back to life, nor pretend it does not hurt. The plain fact is a loved one is now gone. In order to find life in such a tragic incident, one must consider their capacity for life and love, and consider the other people affected by such tragedy. For instance, our friend here could recognize the shock-wave of suffering caused by the death of her family member, and seek to bring comfort and love to the others affected. Notice
there is nothing special or magical about such a response. It simply takes into consideration the reality facing a given human community and seeks to respond in a manner that integrates suffering into a life that can nevertheless be marked by liberation. Death does not go away, pain and loss continue to be felt. However the human person faced with such difficulty finds new wings in her ability to step forward in community with others and reach toward greater love and greater solidarity.
For example, if an individual were to lose a family member, a very close one, and be thrust into a deep depression, where might she find redemption? She cannot bring anyone back to life, nor pretend it does not hurt. The plain fact is a loved one is now gone. In order to find life in such a tragic incident, one must consider their capacity for life and love, and consider the other people affected by such tragedy. For instance, our friend here could recognize the shock-wave of suffering caused by the death of her family member, and seek to bring comfort and love to the others affected. Notice
there is nothing special or magical about such a response. It simply takes into consideration the reality facing a given human community and seeks to respond in a manner that integrates suffering into a life that can nevertheless be marked by liberation. Death does not go away, pain and loss continue to be felt. However the human person faced with such difficulty finds new wings in her ability to step forward in community with others and reach toward greater love and greater solidarity. For those familiar with Father Mark Ravizza's "3 movements", I am more or less referring to the third movement (after the breaking of a heart) where one decides not to retreat from life but instead to invest oneself further, as a whole part of the human community.
(left: Luis Felipe contemplating during a yoga class, and rocking a sweet Che shirt)
These are just some thoughts that are on my mind. Perhaps more to come later.
These are just some thoughts that are on my mind. Perhaps more to come later.
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