The scripture says, “God’s foolishness is wiser than human wisdom.” Easter Sunday fell on April Fools Day this year which inspired the following cartoon (for good or ill.) I offer it (partially against my own better judgment) in the spirit of wise foolishness.
Of course, there are some who will prefer to see the cartoon as simply foolish rather than wise. I can respect that position and even apologize for any offense caused, however, unintentional. We live in an age when a cartoon about religion can lead to violence. I offer it in the spirit of peace. As G.K. Chesterton once said, “Angels can fly because they take themselves lightly.”
On Sunday in church, we invited folks to write down some personal words of wisdom on a paper egg and then we put all our eggs in one basket. Here is some of the wisdom people shared with apologies for the fact that it is impossible to include everything everyone wrote. Consider this a wisdom sampler. Be prepared for a few egg puns (more wise foolishness.)
“Don’t let others extinguish your flame”
“Love your enemies especially at family reunions”
“Be kind to animals”
“When given the choice between being right and being kind, choose kind.”
“Persevere.”
“One need not be eloquent to be intelligent.”
“Always love one another and give of yourself.”
“Love yourself.”
“Don’t take yourself too seriously, laugh!”
“And the meek shall inherit the earth. Meek translation: A warrior who’s sword is sheathed.”
“To love another person is to see the face of God (Les Miserable)”
“Be excellent to each other (Bill + Ted)”
“Be bold, take one more step than you want to.”
“Always try to give the benefit of the doubt.”
“Forgive yourself.”
“Harmony and dialogue, evolve, adapt.”
“In all things, choose love.”
“Though everything changes, nothing is truly lost.”
“Breathe!”
“Love the earth”
“Kids have power.”
“Be eggceptional.”
“Bloom where you are planted.”
“Be still”
“Sleep is good.”
“Treasure every moment.”
“Live with joy in your heart.”
“Be patient.”
“Be eggstra nice to someone.”
“Do the right thing.”
“Dog spelled backwards is God.”
“We are all one, be kind.”
“Love above all else.”
“Every person deserves respect-find a way to give respect to each person you meet.”
“Being gentle is a strength.”
“Truly love your neighbor as yourself.”
“Together we can change the world with love.”
“If you love more you see the world more clearly.”
“The window of eternity is never closed when the eye of the mind is opened by nature’s miracle.”
“Let’s be intentional in our actions for love, equality, eliminating racism and poverty.”
“Listening.”
“Trust.”
“Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”
“Treat others the way you want to be treated.”
“Don’t do what you hate.”
“The truth is in the walk.”
“No matter how much you know…there is always another mystery.”
I am thankful for everyone who wrote down some wisdom and tossed it in our basket. I am grateful to be part of a community that contains so much wise foolishness.
The Tao of Tennessee 