60-second Questions are mini-voyages in self-discovery. They invite you to take just 60 seconds to ponder a question that may offer new insights into yourself, God and the world around us. Remember, stick with thinking about today’s question and new thoughts it generates for 60 seconds.
Today’s question is set up by this quote, which is attributed to many sources:
Your 60-second question: which do more naturally gravitate offering your children–roots or wings?
- If you more naturally gravitate toward offering your children “roots,” what have been the consequences so far, both positive and negative?
- If you more naturally gravitate toward offering your children “wings,” what have been the consequences so far, both positive and negative?
- So far, in what ways have you tried to live in the tension between offering roots and wings?
- If someone asked your child, which of the two might they say they value most from you? Which do they need most from you?
We are entering into an abyss of relativism in terms of values. The culture today is one where tolerance is embraced above guidelines or absolutes. To me, in such an environment, roots matter more. Wings to where? Wings to experiment with the dark side? Wings to explore the occult? Wings to eschew volunteerism in lieu of what’s in it for me? If I felt that we were, as a society, embracing a culture of service, kindness and humility then the wings would matter. But without that culture, I would lean towards roots.
Hi Tom, many thanks for this thoughtful comment. This is exactly the kind of thinking I hope to prompt in my new “60 Second Question” posts. You have given all of us a great example! I hope you’ll continue to offer your insights in the future.