Dietrich's Ghost
As the world spirit takes a breath, a martyr's whisper grows.
I hear it, you know? Whispering in the dark of history’s inhalation.
When you study a man’s example early in your life it has a way of sticking with you. It pops up in the moments leading up to what one might call destiny. The occasion. The time to shine. When that person was killed, there’s a level of anxiety that’s to be expected.
But in all things history doesn’t repeat itself, it rhymes. I’m not a pastor. I’m not German. I’m a teacher. I’m an American. I have deeply held convictions. Some of them even match Dietrich’s, though of course each of us are men of our time and place.
What did he think when he was arrested?
What did he think, sitting in prison, ministering to his guards?
What did he think walking to the gallows?
What did he think, knowing his letters and papers were all that was left?
My letters and papers are here in the disembodied space shared with drifting astronauts like you. Messages in a bottle. It’s easier to be brave here. Simpler to speak my mind here. I admit it. Would it be different in front of a crowd? An interrogator? A gun?
Maybe that’s why I think about it so much. I can safely say that my soul, those deep unknowable parts, has never let me down. If it’s something I truly wanted when it happened I was freer than I’d ever been until that point.
I certainly don’t know what will happen with my life, but I suppose I’m prepared for the worst. That’s one of those nice thoughts, but I suspect it’s true.
No man in the whole world can change the truth. One can only look for the truth, find it and serve it. The truth is in all places.
When the truth comes I hope I can rise to the occasion. I know it won’t be easy, I know it won’t be cheap.
Nothing worthwhile ever is. Especially now. And later.
Truth. What is it? Through my life truth has become a more clouded proposition. The prolification of social media may have contributed to my belief but I am not sure. Came across this etymological statement,
"The Greek word for “truth” is aletheia, which refers to “divine revelation” and is related to a word that literally means “what can’t be hidden.” It conveys the thought that truth is always there, always open and available for all to see, with nothing being hidden or obscured. The Hebrew word for “truth” is emeth, which means “firmness,” “constancy” and “duration.” Such a definition implies an everlasting substance and something that can be relied upon",
helps clear the air.
For me I can wait (for as long as I have left) and see what is revealed.
"My letters and papers are here in the disembodied space shared with drifting astronauts like you. Messages in a bottle. It’s easier to be brave here. Simpler to speak my mind here. I admit it. Would it be different in front of a crowd? An interrogator? A gun?"
🔥 Dude you know the Rush song I'm thinking of here. A couple lines in one song that encapsulates what you are saying here. Well done. 💯🙂💥