A CLASH OF GENERATIONS?

Turning my reflections away from the discomfort of Catholic news these days....

It’s been hot here in Arizona.

I know that’s not news and anyone living in the desert who complains about the heat ought to have his head examined.

Well, I’m not complaining (but explaining) and I confess my head has needed examining for decades!

But the heat has provided me with the opportunity of sitting indoors and watching both the funeral service conducted here in Phoenix for the late Senator John McCain (yesterday) and (this morning) the funeral of Aretha Franklin.

The proximity of the two events put into relief the stark contrast, the clash of generations, evidenced by the speakers at the two ceremonies.

On Thursday, speakers came forward and their remarks were generally about Senator McCain, his life, his challenges, his foibles and his virtues.  

Listeners were given an insight into the character of this citizen-soldier, this military hero, this civil servant who they unanimously attested truly loved his country and served it well.

This morning, at the Franklin funeral, speakers came forward (younger relatives and acquaintances) and their remarks were generally about themselves and how this very talented lady touched their lives and how they were influenced or inspired, how they feel about her death.

One ceremony felt like a documentary.

The other like browsing Facebook.

But that is where we are, I think today.

Baby-boomers tend to think in terms of broad relationships and look at life from historical perspectives.

Millenials seem fixated on what is personally meaningful from strictly their association or experience.

I mention this not to insinuate that one ceremony was more authentic in expressing sadness or in mourning the loss of a loved one or dearest friend.

It’s just that the ceremonies reflected where we are as a society and culture these days.  An outward perspective versus a "selfie".

In any case, God rest the souls of Senator McCain and Ms. Franklin.  Forgive their sins, and all of ours.  Grant them eternal rest in the Love of Christ.  May we be worthy to join them and Our Beloved Savior when at last He calls us from this earthly life to Eternity.