4/14/2022

My Dear Friend, JRB,

As you know, it’s Maundy Thursday, the day in Christ’s last week when Jesus predicts that “his anointed time is near,” & he breaks bread with his disciples for the last time. I often try to imagine, Jesus & his gang. I’m sure he was charismatic with confidence & composure – intense passion coupled with deep serenity. His conviction & courage have left a legacy like few others. Quite a guy!

How do you reconcile the idea that he died for our sins & that God is watching over us, with all of the terrible things happening in the world? Cardinal Bo (CMB) of Myanmar says, “The pain of Jesus’ last hours is reflected in the eyes and hearts of mothers whose sons and husbands die in Myanmar as in Ukraine. They live now the Way of the Cross.” Why does a loving God allow for such suffering?

Perhaps you can help me understand, CMB’s statement, “being a disciple of Jesus does not exempt us from death – rather it asks of us a daily dying.” “Daily dying?” That gives me pause.

Today’s WSJ has an article about a new book, “Breaking the Age Code,” where author Becca Levy points out that getting old doesn’t have to “suck.” If we have a positive attitude toward aging, we do better. You are the perfect example. I am afraid that we if think too much about “daily dying,” we will fall prey to the agist stereotypes propagated by the media & perseverate over every ache, pain & memory lapse. Perhaps we should adopt the Buddhist perspective of “dwelling in the freshness of the present moment” rather than thinking about “daily dying.”

As you go to Harold L. Martin Sr. Engineering Research & Innovation Complex at NC A&T State, please celebrate all those bright young African American students preparing to solve climate change & cure cancer. They are our future & salvation. Let’s keep our eyes on the prize rather than dwelling in regret that life is so short.

BYBS,