O Me, O Life by Walt Whitman

O Me! O Life! (Paraphrased)

O Me!  O Life!

The recurring questions of the faithless are endless

There are cities filled with the foolish

The struggle of people is ever renewed

I was once among them

Intertwined in their misery

Why did I give so much time to empty, useless years?

What good am I doing amid the hopelessness of life?

I have since discovered that

I was put on this earth to help people

Accumulate an understanding that a better life exists

I have learned that the powerful play of life goes on,

And that each one of us may contribute a verse. 

In this short poem, Walt Whitman starts out despairing about the various aspects of life that cause despair: the faithlessness of people, the foolishness, and the seemingly meaningless struggle of daily existence.  The accumulation of these observations leads to the central question: What value can be found in such a disappointing world. 

The poem then pivots dramatically with its “answer” section, offering a profound realization that despite life’s challenges, our mere existence gives us the opportunity to contribute something meaningful to the “powerful play” of life.  This unexpected optimism suggests that purpose comes from participation, rather than perfection. 

In similar fashion, King Solomon writes in the opening chapter of his book of Ecclesiastes:

“Meaningless!  Meaningless!”

says the Teacher. 

“Utterly meaningless! 

Everything is meaningless.” 

What does mankind gain from all their labor

At which they toil under the sun? 

We all have a purpose.  There is no clear path to that purpose, just the quiet idea that no matter how small our part in life may be, it is reason enough to take an active role.   At CityLinC, our purpose is defined in part by how well we serve God and others in our roles as social workers and administrators in a world full of hardship.  We acknowledge the evil, foolishness, and injustices that happen in life, but at the same time, we understand that ultimately, God is in control.   My prayer this week is for this thought to bring you peace as you continue to serve faithfully while you contribute your own verse to the powerful play of life. 

With love,

Pastor Mike Howard