Perplexing Plastic (a.k.a. Troublesome Post)

 

 "Perplexing Plastic"

 (Originally posted in 2018, and challenged by the Diocese of Rockville Centre) 

In the 1960’s the promise of a career in “Plastics” seemed like a sure bet, in contrast to the problem where plastic pollution endangers our environment today.

In a scene from the movie “The Graduate” Ben, a recent college grad (played by Dustin Hoffman) is questioned about his future at a graduation party. A scene I’m sure many of our high school and college graduates can appreciate as we approach June and the long-awaited Summer months. Mr. McGuire steps in, pulls Ben aside with the intention of some sage advice, “Ben I have one word for you...plastics!”.

 

As I contemplate the trajectory of faith and spiritual life, various words enter my mind as I answer the call toward a relationship with my fellow parishioners and with God. Words like struggle, trial, joy, authenticity, service, and very recently, plastics enter the frontal lobe.

When we shop at the grocery store, we are asked the question, “...would you like to pay for a plastic bag for your items?”. At what cost do we take on plastic? Though I appreciate the need to clean up our earth, I am not focusing on that excess of plastic in our lives. I’m looking toward the plastic defenses we build about ourselves, emotionally and spiritually. In a world where we believe we are more “social” with social media, we face the challenge to be authentic, to recognize our shortcomings, and work to deconstruct the plastic personas we project in public.

I admire those who are less concerned about other’s opinions and seem to be comfortable in their own skin. As I look back to those I admire, it is the humble authentic people who I love just for the person they are.

Fred Rogers, from the PBS children’s show, got it right:

 

“Knowing that we can be loved exactly as we are gives us all the best opportunity for growing into the healthiest of people.”

 

“Emotional Plastic” can drive a wedge through our hearts. Plastic protects, but also insulates, creating a seemingly permanent barrier to ward off the interaction. We can surrender to the notion that we are protecting ourselves from the poisoned people of this world or we can begin to risk infection and engage our fellow man on a deeper level.

No one in this world escapes hurt, everyone cries. I believe we can be true to our faith if we just take a leap to remove the plastic shroud, we put upon ourselves and risk an encounter of love. Jesus provides us the model for action. Jesus was not afraid to reach out to the marginalized, the poor, and the outcast. Jesus risked ridicule and scorn, challenged the religious and political hierarchy all the while healing those in dire need.

 Memories of my childhood visits to grandma’s house in Greenpoint, Brooklyn surfaced. Grandma got sold on the idea of clear vinyl plastic. To protect her sofas and couches, grandma agreed to envelop them in clear vinyl plastic covers. What was she thinking? Was comfort sacrificed for appearance? I would have loved to have met the vinyl salesman in 1950 who sold my grandma the coverings. He must have been exceptionally adept at his craft because he even convinced her to have all the pillows done up in vinyl as well!

 I struggle with good intentions which have gone astray. I long to make stronger connections with the people I serve, and I pray that God will help them to form me as a better servant. I pray for the caretaker too.

Superficial appearances can’t fool everyone. A “pretty” church may be attractive for wedding ceremonies, but the spirit of welcome, worship, and witness resides in the hearts of the parishioners as the Holy Spirit moves through us. Renovating one’s heart is a personal journey aided by God’s good grace through humble servants. Don’t be sold on plastic!

I remind myself that I need to risk getting dirty, by encountering my community in the areas where I am least comfortable, by opening to the possibility of hurt, or rejection as we strive to encounter the Divine Source of Love and return to right relationship.