Opus 2013-238: On the Street: Local Attractions

A while back I passed a sign identifying the off-ramp to the Los Angeles County Arboretum.  I have lived in Southern California most of my life.  I have passed this sign thousands of times.  I have never been the Arboretum.  This is an attraction that people travel long distances to enjoy.  I pass it regularly and have never follow the arrows.  I think this is a common occurrence.  People who live close to things often don’t take advantage of them.

Think of all the places you have never been.  I don’t mean Joe’s Bar and Grill.  I mean places like the Norton Simon Museum.  Descanso Gardens.  The Smithsonian.  The Everglades.  Places of history and culture.  I have been here all my life and missed the unmissable.  Has it made a difference in my life?  I will never know, will I?  Nor will you.

How many landmarks are there in our spiritual walk that we have never visited because we have never taken the time to go there.  I know I am not interested in converting to Islam.  I have read their book.  I know I am not interested in becoming a Buddhist or Hindu.  I have tried reading some of their material and it makes no sense to me. 

I have also read my Bible and find that it answers the big questions of life, like why get up and go to work tomorrow.  Why work hard when I get there?  I find it doesn’t answer the little questions of life like “Coke or Pepsi?”  I find that it helps me know the difference.  I also find that it is continually pushing into areas that are new or ignored.  There will always be a new attraction to explore as well as old ones to enjoy.

Give it a try.  First time visitors are welcome.  Life members are expected.  Cynics and skeptics always bring a bit of fun and challenge to the day.  Don’t start with Genesis.  The Bible isn’t put together like any other book you have ever read.  In the Old Testament start with Psalms or Proverbs.  In the New Testament with Mark or Philippians.  Follow the arrows.

homo unius libri