Recently, we went to hear David Olosuga, the British-Nigerian historian, writer and broadcaster. At the end of the talk he spoke about how history is a mixture of the good and the bad things that have taken place over the years. His approach to history centres on the reality that ‘two things can be true at the same time’ – meaning the historical record naturally contains both celebrated achievements and profound atrocities.
Life is often an uncomfortable mixture – one where two things can be true at the same time. The good and the not so good sitting side by side.
As you may know, I have written a number of books – both fiction and faith. I’m currently trying to write the fourth in the Eastwood Story series of contemporary fiction novellas. Among other more cheerful storylines, one of the leading characters is experiencing post-natal depression. (I like to draw on real life experiences so if you feel able to share yours anonymously and confidentially then please click this link.)
Also on the book theme – I have just submitted a book to a publisher on living with doubt: doubt in relation to both faith and life. Another uncomfortable mixture.
Recently, I was at a confirmation service taken by the Bishop of Plymouth, who I have known for many years. He referred to the fact he was going to a clergy conference and leading a Bible study on the parable of the prodigal son. A story of a life which contained both the good and the not so good.
There will always times of feeling sad, of feeling a failure, of perhaps depression. There will be times of doubt – doubt about faith and life. Such times are to be expected.
But in those times, there will also be occasions when, like the prodigal, the father runs towards you, arms open wide. Perhaps saying the words of confirmation: ‘I have called you by name and you are mine.’
Those times are also to be expected.
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Details of my books can be found at richardfrostauthor.com.