Rules are made to be broken
THERE WAS quite a discussion in the newspapers recently about this saying. I was reminded of it when we received a photo of our granddaughter, aged four, going to her Reception Class on ‘Relaxed Rules Day’. She was wearing normal clothes, not uniform, untidy hair and purple nail varnish. She took an unhealthy snack, just this once, for break.
She said it was fun when the class discussed ten ways to break the rules. All was not chaos, however, because some of the usual norms of behaviour were upheld.
You might think that having a Rule of Life would be very restrictive and domineering, but it is not so. It is a matter of conscience and self-discipline.
After all, if we didn’t obey the principles of the Highway Code and drove the wrong way down the road, it would lead to serious accidents, hurt and damage.
The broad framework of society leaves us to interpret it with consideration for others and respect for ourselves to our benefit.
As I am writing this, a young sparrow fluttered up to the window, pecking at it to see where it could go. We observe natural laws, by which we know that the bird will fall to the ground if it stops flying. The bird came to no harm. I saw it fly to the porch roof half a minute later to perch, pause and fly on again. It was learning something we already know.
God gave us the commandments: a basic framework, a guide to daily living. People thousands of years ago realised that they needed a Code of Practice to aid getting along together. It need not be restrictive; it can lead to a freedom. It’s similar to New Year resolutions, but with a more positive attitude.
My rule from the religious order I belong to has a strong basic framework, with suggestions for worship and daily living, care for vulnerable people, respecting Creation, avoiding waste and (mainly) buying what I need rather than what I want. Then I had to think of achievable categories to include. I agreed it with a more experienced member of the local group, and it was signed off by the Bishop Protector. And yes, I did pray about it. If that is not your way, perhaps talk it over with a family member or friend. At intervals, but at least once every year, I go through it and see how I am doing. Am I keeping to what I resolved to do?
We all may be seeking ways to live happier, more satisfying lives. If we have aims and a structured framework, it can be a great help.
If we think about it, we will choose love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control – recommended spiritual gifts.
Reverend Margaret Dimmick
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