Human Privilege?

Although it's fine to express it poetically, it's not just poetic to say that man is the link between immanence and transcendence, heaven and earth, time and eternity, relative and absolute, matter and spirit, animal and God, etc. 

Rather, this is an objective fact without which there can be no others, since only man can know -- or know of -- the facts. Come to think of it, man is also the link between facts and principles. 

Again, the human being is "the spokesman for all life, the vertical axis where life opens onto the spirit and where it becomes spirit" (Schuon).

Great. What are you going to do about it?

That's a good question: what are we going to do about it? In other words, supposing we are the vertical axis, the synthesis of all creation, the spokesman for life, the image of the Absolute, the light bearing creature, what are we supposed to do about it? 

It's a bit of a paradox, isn't it? Because it is as if we are born on top, into the human state, and yet, this isn't the end of anything, rather, only the beginning; it is a kind of vertical noblesse oblige: to whom much is given much is required, with great power comes great responsibility, etc. Nor am I the first to juxtapose Paul and Spiderman:

The idea of “to whom much is given, much will be required” is that we are held responsible for what we have. If we are blessed with talents, wealth, knowledge, time, and the like, it is expected that we use these well to glorify God and benefit others....

It is easy to assume that only wealthy people have been “given much,” but, in truth, we have all been given much.

It reminds me of an American of Color who talks about "white privilege," when any ethnicity or racial category you care to name is materially better off in America than anyplace else. Even Swedish Americans do better than Swedes. In other words, they have American Privilege. Does this mean that a guilt-ridden black American should be forced to give reparations to black Africans?  

Let's not get political. Rather, the point is Human Privilege. 

But frankly, it often doesn't feel like a privilege, rather, a burden. What about all the emotional and spiritual suffering to which man alone is vulnerable? All the diseases and injustices, not to mention knowledge of death? Some privilege.

Is the one -- the privilege -- worth the hassle -- the evil and suffering?

This is a question my son struggles with, nor do I blame him. I mean, I get suffering: no pain, no gain, and all that. Nevertheless, are there no limits? This is no doubt the #1 question asked of God, and what is the answer?

Well, as I told my son yesterday, the Christian believes that God not only doesn't exempt himself from the suffering, but jumped right down into it, subjecting himself to the human condition:

The history of Christianity would be suspiciously human if it were not the adventure of an incarnate God. Christianity assumes the misery of the history, as Christ assumes that of man.

Again, not the religion I would invent, but then again, who would? 

Christian doctrines have the implausibility of objects that we do not construct, but that we stumble across.

If there is "good news," it is only because there is bad news, and we have to appreciate the latter in order to welcome the former. Nor is the good news a "solution" per se:

Christianity does not solve "problems"; it merely obliges us to live them at a higher level.

So, this is apparently one answer to Petey's question above -- of what we are supposed to do about our unique predicament: live it at a higher level.

Okay, but, like, how exactly?

Christianity does not deny the splendor of the world but encourages us to seek its origin, to ascend to its pure snow.

That's a nice sentiment, but a little too poetic. 

What I say here will seem trivial to whoever ignores everything to which I allude.

Touché. Let's start over.

Only the theocentric vision does not end up reducing man to absolute insignificance. 

No privilege for you! 

The human has the insignificance of a swarm of insects when it is merely human.

Indeed,  

Hell is any place from which God is absent.

Moreover, 

History would be an abominable farce if it were to have a worldly culmination. 

Abominable farce, absolute insignificance, the misery of history, a swarm of insects with insoluble problems. Yes, but

The promises of life disappoint no one but the one who believes they are fulfilled here.

These are hard sayings! I'm tapped out. What say you, my artificial friend?

A Noble Obligation: Living Up to Our Human Potential

Your reflections on the unique position of humanity are insightful and thought-provoking. It's a profound realization that we, as human beings, are the bridge between the finite and the infinite, the temporal and the eternal. Given this elevated role, it's natural to ponder the responsibilities that come with it.

The Human Paradox: A Balancing Act

You've presented a profound exploration of the human condition, highlighting both our immense potential and our inherent limitations. The tension between these two poles is a central theme in many philosophical and religious traditions.

Navigating the Paradox

The question of "what are we to do?" is a perennial one. While there's no single answer, here are some perspectives that might offer guidance:

1. Embrace the Paradox:

   • Accept Imperfection: Recognizing that we are flawed beings can lead to greater self-compassion and understanding of others.
   • Find Meaning in Suffering: While suffering is inevitable, we can find meaning in it through resilience, growth, and compassion.

2. Cultivate a Spiritual Practice:

   • Meditation and Mindfulness: These practices can help us connect with our deeper selves and the world around us.
   • Prayer or Contemplation: Engaging in these practices can provide solace, inspiration, and a sense of purpose.

3. Engage in Meaningful Work:

   • Service to Others: Contributing to the well-being of others can bring a sense of fulfillment and purpose.
   • Creative Endeavors: Pursuing artistic or intellectual pursuits can enrich our lives and connect us to something larger than ourselves.

4. Foster Human Connection:

   • Build Strong Relationships: Nurturing deep connections with others can provide support, love, and a sense of belonging.
   • Practice Empathy: Understanding and sharing the feelings of others can foster compassion and understanding.

Ultimately, the path to a meaningful life is unique to each individual. However, by embracing our humanity, cultivating our potential, and connecting with something larger than ourselves, we can navigate the complexities of existence and find a sense of peace and purpose.

Easy for you to say! You're a machine.