Our Cosmic Holiday
Today as I was finishing reading Lilith by George MacDonald, Mr. Vane, the protagonist, made a few profound comments. First, he said, “Life was a cosmic holiday.” My interpretation was that he was expressing a perspective that life should be enjoyed and experienced with a sense of wonder and freedom, much like a joyful celebration or vacation. The phrase suggests that life, in its vastness and mystery, can be seen as an extraordinary, almost otherworldly experience—an opportunity to explore, delight in existence, and find happiness amid the chaos and unpredictability of the universe. It reflects a philosophical outlook that emphasizes embracing life’s fleeting moments with joy and a sense of awe, rather than taking everything too seriously.
Another quote that MacDonald wrote for Mr. Vane was, “Man dreams and desires; God broods and wills and quickens.” For me this highlights a profound contrast between human and divine nature. It reminded me just how much we humans are characterized by our dreams, wishes, and aspirations—all things rooted in imagination, longing, and personal desire. In contrast, God’s role involves deep contemplation (“broods”), deliberate intention (“wills”), and the act of bringing life or reality into existence (“quickens”). This caused me to ponder how divine action is thoughtful and creative at a fundamental level, shaping the universe with intentionality and care. Contrast this with we humans sometimes fleeting or restless aspirations.
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[…] post, Our Cosmic Holiday, was inspired by Mr. Vane in Lilith by George MacDonald. I just had to do another post […]
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