How do we measure one's value? The systems of our society teach that value comes with success. Success, a word seeming always illusive as one strives for a better career, a bigger house, and more income. We then de-value that which cannot lead to success, causing us to look at those who cannot "produce" (the poor, children, the elderly, etc) as having less value.
In "Man's Search For Meaning" Frankl writes: "...usefulness is usually defined in terms of functioning for the benefit of society. But today's society is characterized by achievement orientation, and consequently it adores people who are successful and happy and, in particular, it adores the young. It virtually ignores the value of all those who are otherwise, and in so doing blurs the decisive difference between being valuable in the sense of dignity and being valuable in the sense of usefulness."
We need to operate in such a way that preserves the dignity of all people, recognizing that regardless of age, social-economic status, or "success" level, they are intrinsically valuable. It is in the place of mutual respect and understanding for ones inherent value that we can spur one another on to a life of meaning.
2 comments:
I will admit that I haven't read "Man's Search For Meaning" in its entirety (now I need to put that on my reading list as well) but it's telling that the original title was ..trotzdem ja zum Leben sagen (Ein Psychologe erlebt das Konzentrationslager) (translated: "...saying yes to life in spite of everything; A Psychologist Experiences the Concentration Camp)". Part of his job in the prison camp system that ultimately killed his mother, father and wife was to try and convince inmates that they had value and their lives had meaning - despite the circumstances, because he (nor they) could change them. That drove him to a rather pragmatic (some might say) view of the value of a spiritual life. So how do we Follower of Christ, make this happen? I've got some ideas but this would make a good small group discussion or sermon series - don't you think?
Given the U.S. current financial situation, there must be a lot of people who feel worthless..literally without value.When we define ourselves and others by monetary success, we always fall short because there is always someone who makes more or seems happier. We fool ourselves in thinking that money and success buy happiness. When times are desperate as they are for many in Michigan, it is hard to remain faithful to God's plan and trust in him. Yet that trust is exactly what will get us through. We reach others by believing in them..giving them hope in tough times, and showing them their value in ways other than defined by the car they drive or their bank account. We reach others by not taking for granted our blessings but by giving thanks to God for all. It is through his grace that we have anything. One wonders if these economic troubles are a way for God to say...hey, I don't want your money, I want you...your time, your love and your attention. Let's give it to him and define ourselves in a new way.
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