Is it possible to be too conservative?

by Mary Fahnestock-Thomas, Hamilton

According to the article about changing leadership in the Ravalli County Republican Party in the “ Bitterroot Star” dated 10/18/23, Theresa Manzella does not think so.

That reminded me of a short (very short) story by Franz Kafka – you know, the guy who wrote “The Metamorphosis” (1915), about Gregor Samsa, who wakes up one morning and discovers he has turned into a cockroach. 

I think the story I’m remembering is called “The Next Village” (~1920), where a young person remembers their grandfather saying how short life is and what a risk one takes in even going out of the house … and therefore apparently choosing not to do so.

Think how comfortable that could be: no change, no challenges, no necessity to get along with or even recognize anyone outside, no impetus to grow or learn anything new, etc. 

No thanks; that’s not what I’m alive for.

On the other hand, is it possible to be too liberal? Sure! Aside from obeying the law, no one is required to have any sense at all (though it is often helpful to all concerned). We can even “go and sell all that [we] have and give to the poor” (Matthew 19:21)!

Maybe that’s what I’m alive for, and I’m working on it – to be not anxious, but rather as free and glorious as “the lilies of the field” (Matthew 6:28).

Each of us gets to choose, even from minute to minute. Perhaps the main thing is to be awake and paying attention.

Thanks so much to the “Star” for so consistently providing food for thought and an active local forum for us!