419. Knowledge Fails

The old joke goes like this. A communist says he can put a new suit on that man. Christianity says it can put a new man in that suit.

We have access to more knowledge, experience, history, culture, research, philosophy, political stances, art, and plain old information than ever before in time. Yet we are no better for it. It is past time to admit that information and access have failed to produce better people, as was hoped by the likes of Marcus Aurelius and others. Neither external forces nor accessibility can ever change a person within. Permanent and positive change begins only inside the human being, and that is precisely what Christianity — and no other religion or philosophy or political stance — promises.

418. Utopian Emptiness

Often we hear something along the lines of, “Someday technology or science will help us with or prove that fill-in-the-blank-with-whatever.” This is the definition of faith. Hopeful of some abstract future, the present problems are dismissed rather than dealt with in any real way.

This is like promising tomorrow’s stunning sunrise to the blind.

417. Quotes: Your Dad on How to Be

Think deeply then live greatly.

416. Marriage

Those fools who say marriage is just a piece of paper are the same ones who selfishly insist that everything in life is meaningless except for what they want.

415. Time

If you don’t have enough time, put your electronics away for a while.

414. Movie Manners

Enjoy it in the theater. Be the commentator at home.

413. Taking Time

You can take your time when it is truly yours, not when it involves others.

412. Speed Limit

The speed limit is there so you can go it.

411. Architecturally Sound

If you know nothing else of architecture, know that a flat roof is just another term for an indoor pool.

410. Careful Gains

Better to gain rightful enemies than wrongful loyalties.