The Little Things

Do you know what it means to "Bic" someone? That's a Gen X slang term for stealing someone's lighter. It used to happen frequently when a group of friends got together to smoke weed.  The joint goes out, you borrow someone's lighter to relight it, the conversation goes on with you being fully engaged, the owner of the lighter gets distracted, eventually you forget about it, stick it in your pocket and walk away. 

There are a couple of my friends who became known for this. One guy even had a collection of stolen lighters that he bragged about. He kept them in a little box that he would show you when you went to his house.  It wasn't that he was trying to do anything wrong, it was just because he was stupid.  Eventually he got a reputation for it, so whenever somebody was missing a lighter, they would go right to him.

Pens are another common item that gets stolen frequently without people even realizing it.  I'm reminded of the pens that are attached to the little chains, that are stuck to the counter in the bank or post office.  

So, why would I even bring up something like this on a blog about wisdom?  Because it's an example of the little things that real humans do that irritate each other. It's one of the little mistakes that some people make, often without even realizing it, but at the expense of another. It's taking away a little thing from somebody, that would result in nothing more than a minor inconvenience. 

It's still wrong though, isn't it? Eventually you'll move on and forget about it, the person may never even realize what happened to their lighter or pen, it will hardly have any impact on their lives, but it's still wrong.

The thing about these little things is that they add up over time.  A lot of little things in a relationship, for example, can lead to big problems eventually causing her to get sick of your shit and throw you right out on your butt. It also gives her a lot to use against you in the future, because she will remember and throw it in your face every chance she gets. 

Also, something that seems little to you, may be pretty big to somebody else. You never know.

The good thing about the little things is the good little things that you do in the world are multiplied in the same way.  Think about it.  

What I'm Reading: The Screwtape Letters - Understanding Temptation Through Literature

I call this blog the companion guide to my search for wisdom. So, I should probably discuss what I'm reading every now and then. Currently, I have been reading the Screwtape Letters by CS Lewis. 

The book consists of a series of letters from an elder demon named Screwtape to his younger nephew Wormwood, who has been charged with leading a certain human to Hell.  It's an interesting look at human nature and our response to temptation and evil. 

It's also an interesting concept that if we have a guardian angel 😇, chances are we have a demon 👿 assigned to us as well. Both of them battling it out over our souls. I guess it just depends on which one we want to listen to. If you believe in that sort of thing that is. 

I am approximately a quarter of the way through the book. I have so far read the first eight letters. It's a deep book, covering serious topics. So I don't try to bite off too much all at once. I've read each of the first eight letters two or even three times. I have taken notes.  I am able to relate to things that are said. 

Let me give you a couple of examples. 

In the first letter, Screwtape discusses how to keep what he calls the patient focused on the mediocre. How he can distract him from any deep thought just by whispering in his ear, suggesting things like, "it's time for lunch."  

Just look at how distracted we are in this day and age. When was the last time you had a deep thought and the phone rings, or you stuck your face in a screen, or you saw that shiny object and picked it up and started fidgeting with it?

The book was written during World War II, which delights Wormwood, but Screwtape warns him that during times of suffering, humans are more likely to turn to God, who is referred to in the book as the enemy.

He suggests encouraging the patient to focus on that which annoys him about his loved ones, specifically his mother.  At the same time he suggests encouraging the patient to worry about the state of his mother's soul rather than her current suffering and health.  That keeps his attention off of his own soul.

Now, although this book is a satire, I think it has some pretty deep meaning, discussing philosophical and spiritual truths about life.  Therefore it should be taken with at least a little bit of seriousness.  CS Lewis is considered to be a brilliant theologian, whose work has had at least some influence on Christian thought. That's a pretty good resume. 

And it all fits right into my life. It's like explaining how I divert from the straight and narrow path every now and then. 

I do believe the evil does exist. I also believe that good exists. And I believe that we are going to choose one path or the other. We're human. We are a race of fallen people. Even when we fall, God will be there holding his hand out to us to help us back up. We have to choose to take his hand. And when we do, we are better equipped to fight the spiritual battles.

The demon will tempt you with shiny objects.  It will offer you instant gratification. It will keep you focused on the mediocre, the negative, and anything that will divert your attention from God.  It will whisper things in your ear and encourage you to go with it. It will offer you gifts that come with a price. It will remind you of things that aggravate you. It will encourage you to entertain your fears. It will help you to stress about the future with much anxiety.  

Just look at the world today and the people in it. Those who turn to God experience more peace while fighting the spiritual battle because he doesn't have to fight it alone. Just ask anybody who prays. While at the same time, the battles come and the battles go.  And they are going to come.

Those who don't turn to God, often experience chaos and confusion, as there will always be that missing piece of the puzzle, often without even knowing it.

Or maybe I can just only speak for myself.  

A Test to See if You Are Wise

In order to be a Wise Man, you have to be able to look at yourself as a fallen person and examine your own conscience.  Ask yourself different questions such as....

• What good have I done?
• What have I done that is good for others? 
• Am I able to be loving toward those who are close to me?
• Am I able to recognize the beauty in another person?
• Have I done anything to help the less fortunate?
• Can I be empathetic?
• Am I a light to others?
• Do I practice kindness regularly?
• Am I able to love?
• Love requires willing the good of another, have I done that?
• What have I sacrificed to ensure the good of another?
• Can I stay true to those closest to me?
• Do I listen actively or do I just wait for my turn to speak?
• Am I patient with those closest to me?
• Do I hold grudges or am I able to forgive?
• How have I hurt them and what have I done to make it right?
• What harm have I caused?  
• What have I done that is hurtful towards others?  
• Am I critical or judgmental of others, while being no better?
• What do I do for benefit of myself at the expense of others? 
• Am I a giver or a taker?
• Do I often find myself getting into trouble?
• What expectations do I have of others, and am I willing to give at least that much towards my loved ones?
• How am I using the gift of life?
• How much time have I wasted on meaninglessness when I could have done something good?  
• Am I able to see and respect the beauty in the world?
• What do I focus my energy on?
• How am I making the world a better place than I found it?
• Am I humble?
• Do I brag about my accomplishments?
• Do I get myself into trouble in order to make myself look better than I actually am?  
• Do I worry too much about what other people think of me?
• How do I handle criticism?
• How do I handle disappointment?
• Can I admit when I'm wrong?
• How do I deal with failure?
• What have I learned from my mistakes?
• How do I manage my emotions?
• Am I able to show gratitude?
• Am I personally responsible?
• Do I take responsibility for my actions?
• Do I deny pleasure in order to meet my responsibilities?
• Do I contribute to my community?
• Am I trustworthy?
• Am I nurturing my spiritual growth?
• Do I pray?
• Do I study scripture?
• Do you fear God?

How did you do?

There are probably thousands of questions you should be asking yourself, but this is at least a start.

Happiness is a Choice

I have been playing around with Artificial Intelligence, which I believe is going to lead to a major technological evolutionary step.  

On the PC, Microsoft's Copilot AI opens with suggestions.  This was one I saw today.  I asked it to add the 5th because I believe that the spiritual is just as real as this.  This was the response.  

Philosophers often argue that happiness is a choice based on several key principles:

1. Cognitive Control: Many philosophers, like the Stoics, believe that while we can't control external events, we can control our reactions to them. By choosing to respond positively or with acceptance, we can maintain our happiness regardless of circumstances.
2. Perception and Attitude: Existentialists like Sartre suggest that happiness comes from our perception and attitude towards life. By choosing to find meaning and positivity in our experiences, we can create our own happiness.
3. Practical Wisdom: Aristotle, in his concept of eudaimonia (flourishing), posits that happiness results from living a life of virtue and practical wisdom. This involves making conscious choices that align with our values and lead to long-term well-being.
4. Mindfulness and Presence: Philosophers from Eastern traditions, such as those who follow Zen Buddhism, emphasize mindfulness and being present in the moment. By choosing to focus on the here and now and not getting lost in worries or regrets, we can find happiness in the present.
5. Spiritual Fulfillment: Many philosophers and spiritual leaders believe that happiness is closely linked to our spiritual well-being. This perspective suggests that connecting with a higher power or purpose can bring profound peace and joy. By choosing to nurture our spiritual beliefs and practices, we can find a deep sense of contentment and fulfillment that transcends material circumstances.

Together, these five principles underscore the idea that happiness often stems from our internal choices and mindset. Do any of these resonate with you, or is there another perspective on happiness that you find compelling?

There is some really good advice there, and it shows that wisdom can be found anywhere if you're willing to seek it out.

Why is the Catholic Bible and the Protestant (King Jame's) Bible different?

When the topic of religion came up during a recent conversation with a dear friend who belongs to a Protestant denomination, a claim was made that the Catholics changed the wording in the Bible.  

The example given was in regard to the 10 Commandments, which I learned is worded differently between the texts of the Standard Catholic Bible and the King James Bible that is used by Protestants.  

Because I am no biblical scholar, I wasn't sure how to answer that, but I am able to do the research, and when I got home, I did.  Here is what I learned.  

Origins

The main difference between the Protestant i.e. King James Bible and the Catholic Bible is in the origin.  

• The Catholic Bible that we have today, was translated into Latin by St. Jerome in the 4th Century CE.  This is the Standard Catholic Bible that has been used for centuries, and that has been translated into the different languages that the Bible is available in today from that original source.  
• The King James Bible on the other hand, was compiled during the 16th Century as part of the Protestant Reformation.  The KJB was translated by a team of scholars.  The project was overseen by Archbishop Richard Bancroft.

Original Source Material

• King James Bible: The New Testament of the KJV was translated from the Textus Receptus (Received Text), a series of Greek texts compiled by Erasmus and later revised by others like Stephanus and Beza. The Old Testament was translated from the Masoretic Hebrew text, and the Apocrypha from the Greek Septuagint.  This text was compiled in the 16th century and is based on a limited number of late Byzantine manuscripts. While it's highly respected, especially in Protestant traditions, it may not include the oldest or most varied manuscript evidence.
• Catholic Bible: The New Testament of the Catholic Bible primarily uses the Vulgate, which was translated by St. Jerome from the Hebrew and Greek texts, including the Septuagint. The Old Testament also uses the Septuagint for some books. The Septuagint is a Greek translation of Hebrew scriptures dating back to around the 3rd century BCE, making it one of the oldest translations. The Vulgate, translated by St. Jerome in the 4th century CE, uses these older sources and reflects a longer tradition of textual transmission, particularly within the Catholic Church.

St. Jerome's work made the scriptures more accessible to the common people of his time, as Latin was the prevalent language of the Roman Empire.

Notable Differences

There are a number of books and chapters that are included in the Catholic Bible that are not in the King James Bible.  These additional books are known as the Deuterocanonical books. Here they are:

1. Tobit

2. Judith

3. 1 Maccabees

4. 2 Maccabees

5. Wisdom (of Solomon)

6. Sirach (Ecclesiasticus)

7. Baruch

8. Additions to Esther (parts of Esther that are not in the Hebrew Bible)

9. Additions to Daniel:

   • Prayer of Azariah

   • Song of the Three Holy Children

   • Susanna

   • Bel and the Dragon

These books are included in the Catholic Old Testament but are not part of the Protestant Old Testament, including the KJV.

The Catholic Bible includes the Deuterocanonical books for several reasons:

1. Historical Tradition: These books were widely used by early Christians and were part of the Greek Septuagint, a key scriptural source in the early Church. The Septuagint included these books, and early Church Fathers often referenced them in their writings.

2. Council Decisions: The Deuterocanonical books were affirmed as canonical at several important Church councils. The Council of Rome (382 AD), Councils of Hippo (393 AD), and Carthage (397 and 419 AD) all endorsed the inclusion of these books. This decision was further solidified at the Council of Trent (1546 AD) in response to the Protestant Reformation.

3. Theological Consistency: The Catholic Church views these books as inspired and consistent with the rest of Scripture. They provide valuable teachings, historical accounts, and insights into Jewish life and faith during the intertestamental period (between the Old and New Testaments).

4. Liturgy and Devotion: These books have been used in Catholic liturgy and devotion for centuries. They are included in the readings at Mass and other liturgical celebrations.

In summary, the Catholic Church considers the Deuterocanonical books an integral part of its scriptural and theological tradition, reaffirming their importance through historical councils and consistent use in liturgy and teaching.

Another difference is in the wording or presentation.  The specific example that I was presented with during the conversation was in regard to the 10 Commandments.

The Ten Commandments are essentially the same across different Christian traditions, but the wording and grouping can differ slightly between the Catholic and Protestant (King James Bible) versions. Here's a comparison to highlight these differences:

Catholic Ten Commandments:

1. I am the Lord your God. You shall not have strange gods before me.

2. You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.

3. Remember to keep holy the Sabbath day.

4. Honor your father and your mother.

5. You shall not kill.

6. You shall not commit adultery.

7. You shall not steal.

8. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.

9. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife.

10. You shall not covet your neighbor's goods.

Protestant (King James Bible) Ten Commandments:

1. Thou shalt have no other gods before me.

2. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image.

3. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain.

4. Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.

5. Honour thy father and thy mother.

6. Thou shalt not kill.

7. Thou shalt not commit adultery.

8. Thou shalt not steal.

9. Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbor.

10. Thou shalt not covet.

Key Differences:

• The Catholic version combines the prohibition of other gods and the creation of idols into the first commandment.

• The Catholic version separates the commandment on coveting into two: one for coveting a neighbor's wife and another for coveting a neighbor's goods.

• The Protestant version explicitly separates the commandment against making graven images.

These differences reflect variations in theological emphasis and historical tradition. Despite these variations, the core moral teachings remain consistent across both versions.

So yes, the Catholic Bible and the King James Version have a number of key differences and variations in wording.  The original claim that the Catholic's changed the bible is unfair and incorrect.  I hope I have been able to explain why that is and how it came to be.  

Sources

The God Who Speaks

King James Bible Translators

English-Bible-4-Understanding-the-Greek-Text-Behind-the-King-James-Version.pdf

The Texts | The King James Bible: A Translation for the Ages | Cedarville University

Septuagint Version | Catholic Answers Encyclopedia

How St. Jerome Translated the Bible for the Masses

The Smoking Spot

I had a humbling experience yesterday.  I, for a moment, got to experience the way some people live.  

I went to see an old friend for the first time in years.  He has a lot of health problems.  He always has.  They have gotten worse over the years.  It was sad to see.  I need to pray for him.  He is in a weakened state.  

My friend has been living in a large building in South Portland Maine, with apartments that are subsidized for the elderly and disabled.  This place has become somewhat of a community.  Most of the people are unable to work but are able to live independently in their own flats.  They don't really go anywhere.  Maybe the grocery store.  Maybe the doctor.  Maybe to church.  

With that, his life has fallen into a repetitive pattern.  In other words, he has adopted this lifestyle which is common in these types of places.  

The place has a strict no smoking rule.  There is no smoking allowed on the premises, no smoking allowed in the apartments, so those who do smoke have to go outside onto a little side street, which has become a sort of community gathering spot for the smokers of "whatever" who live in the building.  

While out there, these people have no protection from the elements.  There are no benches to sit on.  There are no ashtrays set up.  For those who have cars, these cars have become their smoking rooms.  It's a luxury not shared by all who live in the building.  They sit smoking while listening to the radio or watching Tic Tok on their smartphones.  

One guy was smoking what was left of a big old stogey, another sat in his car smoking a joint.  Marijuana is legal in Maine, so it has become part of the way of life there.  You're not supposed to smoke weed in a car, but they do.  A couple more people sat there in their wheelchairs on the side of the road smoking their cigarettes.  This is what these people do all day.  They sit in their apartments until it's time to go have a smoke.  Then they go out in the freezing cold.  Then go back in.  The lucky ones who have their cars at least have protection from the elements.  Most don't.  

I quit smoking years ago, but even when I did, I never had to do anything like that.  It's just ridiculous to me.  This is really the way of life for some.  They'll sit in their apartments watching something on TV, then go outside to have a smoke.  Then they do it all over again, and again and again.  It goes on all day.  

It made me realize how good I have it.  It makes me see how lucky I really am.  My life could be so much worse, so much more mundane.  Sure, it could be better.  But I have what I need.  I have my health.  I have my stability.  I have opportunities.  I have a family.  I have my strength (for the most part).  I have options.  

Still, I spend too much time focusing on what I don't have, and thinking I'd be happy if I did.  Imagine that.  

So let that be a lesson in gratitude for you.  Because if your life at least has a little spice in it, you got it good.