What makes us human?
And other questions I won't be answering today.
In books, podcasts, and videos recently I’ve encountered a number of conversations about what it means to be an embodied human—about what truly makes us human, especially in the context of our faith. I used to think that it was sentience and intellect, but I’m finding that to be too narrow a definition.
I know that it is a deeply philosophical and theological question that may never be fully answered, but I am leaning more towards an idea I heard on Amy Julia Becker’s podcast recently—that perhaps our humanity lies in our capacity for loving each other, in the unique social and relational need to belong that isn’t similarly reflected in nature.
I’ve been considering that group dynamics in nature and among prehistoric humans likely develop out of necessity and survival, not consideration for emotional needs or love. (I have done no research, and I’m not an anthropologist or a biologist. Just thinking aloud here.)
But then I have to ask why we humans possess such an immense capacity for love. Why is it that we need emotional attachment to feel secure, social, stable, and more? Why do love and relationships seem to affect every area of our modern existence?
And if we believe that God is the author of all creation, that God is love, and that humans are created in the image of their Creator… are we humans uniquely equipped to live that love out here on earth and even into the after life? And if that’s the case, why are we lonelier than ever?
What has happened that we’re more aware of our bodies and humanity than any other generation could even dream of, yet we’re more disconnected from each other than ever before?
I have a watch that monitors my heart rate, alerts me to text messages and emails, controls my playlist, and notifies me when my son has hit his limit of computer time for the day. AND I feel so alone sometimes.
Has our abundance of choices left us paralyzed in perpetual decision fatigue? We have so many options when it comes to where to eat, who to date, what to watch, what to listen to, what to wear. We have more access to people from different backgrounds than ever before, but we feel alone. Are we consciously choosing no one, instead scrolling on our phones? Or has it all become too much?
I would rather belong imperfectly than belong to no one. And I suppose there’s some comfort in knowing I’m not alone in that.
Bits & Bobs:
My husband turned 40! | I posted this reflecting on some of the birthdays we’ve celebrated together, in seasons of grief and joy. I’m grateful he’s been my person for a decade, and I’m hopeful we’re privileged to spend decades and decades more together.
Jesus through Medieval Eyes | I won an instagram giveaway for this book from the author, and I am so looking forward to reading. I think this will tie into some of the reading I’ve been doing on disability theology (and the things I’ve written about in this post!), and I’m curious to see what parallels exist between contemporary thinkers and our medieval predecessors.
Dawes | I went to see this band 14 or 15 years ago because I was interested in a boy going to the show. I had no idea I’d see them in concert 4 more times or they’d still be one of my favorite bands today. Every album is phenomenal, but I have special affection and sentiment attached to the first three albums.
Every Moment Holy | These books of prayers and liturgies have been such a comfort and delight. I had no idea there was an app, too. I’ll end with this prayer from A Liturgy for a Time of Widespread Suffering (in Volume II):
Father, empower your children to live as your children. In times of distress let us respond, not as those who would instinctively entrench for our own self-preservation, but rather as those who—in imitation of their Lord—would move in humble obedience toward the needs and hurts of their neighborhoods and communities.
Until next time, friends. 👋