I am no philosopher. However, my son is particularly good with philosophy and I’ve told him as much. He surprises me with his insight and ability to comprehend and consider carefully and respectfully the ideas of another.
For me, I’m simple. I don’t normally dive into complex ideologies but at the same time, I do relish deep conversations. If I could go back in time, it would be fabulous to sit at the wooden table in the Eagle and Child pub, listening to the conversation of Tolkein and C.S. Lewis, rapt with wonder and awe. Even if I couldn’t follow everything, just being able to observe would be a delightful treat.
I suppose I enjoy the pleasure of a thought. The simple act of thinking and watching others attach careful words to their thoughts is much different than spouting off an opinion. Quite different.
Considerate thought is in a class all its own.
Opinions require no thought at all. They are formed out of emotion and a surface experience – or, most likely, a parroting of a narrative belonging to another. An opinion is usually fiercely defended and deeply tied to offense.
In contrast…what treasure there is in a well-formed thought. Just as a master craftsman/woman takes time to gather, plan, and form a finished product, so, too, a thought is carefully wrought. To ruminate on a thought is to put our thoughts into a mental tumbler and toss until the rough edges are smooth. Some thoughts are thrown out as we find they are not good. Others, still need more work.
Partnered with prayer and the Holy Spirit, a thought that sits as a bur under a saddle or a puzzle piece without a home suddenly becomes a jewel of revelation! It takes time to work the thought: molding, purifying, and allowing truth to shine through. Finally, there is a moment when we realize: Ah! There’s a good thought! Firm in its foundation, unwavering, and as a precious jewel in our possession.
Now it becomes so much more than an opinion. It is a carefully crafted opinion that’s been tested, questioned, pondered, considered, and formed into a beautiful thought of great value. And it’s at this point that exterior challenges to a good thought do not cause ripples of offense (which is based on fear and uncertainty). Opinions simply bounce off good thoughts like a piece of silly putty thrown against a stone wall. The only thing that can alter a carefully crafted thought is another one. And then, it is as we say, iron that sharpens iron.
Even as I was pondering the pleasure of good thoughts, this verse in Proverbs suddenly comes to mind – a verse I’ve long liked, but never truly understood. Today, it found it’s home. It perfectly speaks of the pleasure and value of a well-crafted thought.