Even in the oldern days!

More thoughts from Spe Salvi.

He (Christ-ed) himself is both the way and the truth, and therefore he is also the life which all of us are seeking. He also shows us the way beyond death; only someone able to do this is a true teacher of life. The same thing becomes visible in the image of the shepherd. As in the representation of the philosopher, so too through the figure of the shepherd the early Church could identify with existing models of Roman art. There the shepherd was generally an expression of the dream of a tranquil and simple life, for which the people, amid the confusion of the big cities, felt a certain longing. (my emphasis)

Who knew that people longed for "the simple life" even in the times of early Christianity? Without reading too much into this: why is a rural life viewed throughout the ages as being more peaceful and desirable? Is is innate in us, or just a longing for the greener grass on the other side of the fence

Maybe I exaggerate, but for every computer crisis at the office in the city, there would seem to be a dog in the chicken pen in the country. Perhaps the difference is that in the country you (can) view the sunset every night from your back porch, while in the city you are guaranteed to be fighting traffic at the same time.

I guess (one) other difference is the quiet. I noted the other day when I was in the outskirts of DC all the 'people' noise I could hear from inside my sister's apartment. I am sure (and know) there are other differences-but which are those we envision when we long for a simple, tranquil life in the country?

Our Lady of Joyful Hope-pray for us! ... Oremus pro invicem!