01.17.09
C.S. Lewis, Philosophy, & Me
Since the infancy of my blogging days, someone would chance on my blog every now and then and ask me whether I have majored in philosophy. What suggests this conception, I do not really know for I am barely toe-deep on the banks of philosophy. For all I know, I might even be in the wrong shore.
Ironically, my puerile attitude towards philosophy used to be very negative that I have avoided philosophy books and philosophy majors alike and was even unable to sleep on the night a friend announced that he would take up philosophy in college. Out of “concern” and curiosity, I skimmed through backgrounds of philosophers and read the elementary Sophie’s World. Furthermore, I was to learn later on that the people whom God would use to influence/alter my life and thoughts greatly would be philosophers. Of course, I still know nothing of philosophical arguments but the philosophical impression has certainly provoked me to yearn for wisdom and knowledge and live a more meaningful life.
Nevertheless, I still retain residues of my former stance and deem that philosophy can be dangerous especially when it concerns religion particularly Christianity. The Bible also warns us of these philosophies of which some can be strikingly or subtly compromising. Zarathustra and such remains unconvincing to a high degree and varying ideas on art can barely affect one’s spiritual life, but when it comes to Christianity, I am extra cautious and guarded. This is one reason why I have not read much of C.S. Lewis’ spiritual writings despite the positive and admiring feedback. I believe that if one wants to experience Christianity, there is no other place to look than in the Bible because it is complete and needs no supplementary readings.
…and yet, being the curious reader that I am and finding my first C.S. Lewis (The Four Loves) to be enlightening, I finally decided to read his deeper spiritual masterworks – but not without a skeptic’s Stabilo on hand. Can one be too careful or afford to be too lax when it comes to matters of Faith?
I am now in between the covers of a C.S. Lewis treasury and I aim to accomplish Mere Christianity, The Screwtape Letters, The Abolition of Man, The Great Divorce, The Problem of Pain, Miracles, and A Grief Observed by the end of January. An unprecedented occurrence of which I am not inclined to publicly announce may hinder me from posting blog entries until February. There may or may not be public notes afterwards, but I am absolutely looking forward to discussions about the man and his devout epistles.
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mika said,
January 17, 2009 at 10:26 pm
c.s. lewis! one of the most important things i’ve learned about him is that one can be a christian and STILL be intellectually alive and kicking! :) i’m excited for you, Miracle.
that’s right, the Bible is ultimately the only book we’ll need. it’s such a rich book that it’s often enlightening to read what others have thought about it. sometimes i’d read about an insight on a passage which i wouldn’t have thought of myself. anyway, i won’t spoil it for you. enjoy! haha
chel said,
January 18, 2009 at 8:43 pm
I have read “Mere Christianity” and “The Great Divorce.” I believe God has used CS to make me realize some things that I hadn’t realized before I came to know CS. In my journey, He has used philosophers to deepen my faith. I also do that “Stabilo” thing. CS is very instrumental for the skeptics and the intellectual Christians.
one can be a christian and STILL be intellectually alive and kicking! - I’ve also learned this through him.
Miracle ♪♫ said,
January 19, 2009 at 7:34 pm
Hello Mika and Michelle!
As I have mentioned before, I sincerely appreciate book referrals but do not usually absorb reviews for the reason that I may approach a particular book with fresh eyes. C.S. Lewis didn’t pass as an exception – even though I trust you and the others about how great C.S. Lewis is. But now I can truly attest to the inspiring revelations that you so often exalt. =)
I am now experiencing for myself the enlightenment you and other friends have spoken of. C.S. Lewis is truly a light and a blessing to the Christian [literary] world.
youssef said,
April 22, 2009 at 7:42 pm
bonjeur
Anonymous said,
July 14, 2009 at 7:06 pm
Tita Tess,
This is the first time I read you Mira, thanks to Tin. Having read CS Lewis 2 years back, I’d say that he has a way that appeals to some readers, including me - and how his turn around in faith is a study of how God prods us unto Him - blind made to see, cripple made to carry his pallet, woman healed of a 12 year issue…
Miracle ♪♫ said,
July 14, 2009 at 7:22 pm
Hi, Tita Tess! Thank you for sharing your own experience with C.S. Lewis. He is truly a rare writer…almost alone in his league. Thank you for visiting. =) Mama’s gonna complain even more about how her friends get to read my blog anytime and she doesn’t. hihi