Religion

Hospital chaplains, preachers, pastors, religious leaders, even civic leaders, caregivers and so many others receive requests for prayers or offer them during visits and before meetings, as invocations that hope to form a focus. Many people use devotionals in the morning and evening. Muslims have specific calls to prayer during the day. We’ve all heard the bedtime plea, “Now, I lay me down to sleep. I pray the Lord my soul to keep.”

From the opening line, “Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can,” I was riveted by the cinematic story unfolding before me, Lee Daniels’ ‘The Butler.’ I had read that it was inspired by the real-life account of Eugene Allen who worked for the White House for 34 years until his retirement as head butler in 1986. Knowing that Hubby Dear is especially interested in movies based on historical figures and events, I suggested a Saturday morning date. It proved to be a tearfully beautiful experience.

I often mention to Hubby Dear that he spells his last name with the “P” from procrastination. He is not devoid of perseverance, but avoidance plagues him. There are so many pleasurable things to do and so little time. There are books to read on his Kindle, people to visit along the way, gardens to tend, profound thoughts to ponder ... all important and fun. There are miles to go before he sleeps, but some of the promises he means to keep are shelved for a tomorrow that lags in coming.

In his work, House of Cards, the British painter Charles Hunt paints an endearing picture for the world to see. It depicts a group of children at play with a card game. Some are involved in the activity. Others are participating as onlookers. All have a heartfelt interest in the action. It would seem that the artist is conveying an important message for all of us who live in a consumer society: