Obsolete

I have been interested in this word obsolete recently. There are really two similar but not exactly the same definitions: no longer in use or practice; discarded - and no longer in fashion; out-of-date; passé. It is an eye-opener (a senior moment in a sense) because we normally think of both definitions but often in the wrong context.

Let's probe into this a little more. We talk about obsolete autos, some no longer in use but are very fashionable. Maybe its safer to say antique. We talk about obsolete tools we no longer use but every now and then we put them to work because some things which took their place are not available or broken.

We have obsolete clothing in our closets, not yet discarded but the right moment arrives and we dress for the occasion. We preachers have obsolete sermons on file. Not having the heart to throw them away, suddenly, years later in another setting, we dig one of them out, dust it off and it no longer is obsolete. Teachers sometimes teach obsolete lessons which are irrelevant and should discarded.

The Bible falls into this abyss as well. Because it is ancient it is often thought of as obsolete. But in what way? To be discarded? That is too often the thinking of many. But is it out-of-date, passé. Hardly. Sure, there are things in the Bible not always understood today such as women should keep silence in the church. However, when understood in it's rightful context it certainly isn't a universal axiom. What would the church do today without its women?

A recent appointee we're told puts animals and humans on the same level to the extent that animals should be able to sue their masters if mistreated or underfed. Of course this would have to be done by a neighbor, relative or an opportunist I suppose. And who would make the decision or share in the award, if any? A reading of the Bible would debunk this quickly.

Let me close with a quotation that highlights the topic in its own way. Our whole economy is based on planned obsolescence. We make good products, we induce people to buy them, and then the next year we deliberately introduce something that will make these products old-fashioned, out of date, obsolete. Quoted in Vance Packard The Wastemakers, 1960. This could be the first use of the phrase 'planned obsolescence.'

Seniors at times are considered out-of-date, no longer in use or practice and should be discarded when they are no longer in fashion; out-of-date; passé. To think that certain people think seriously this way is frightening.

Humans, young and old, are invaluable and we would be wise to not only understand that but insist upon it.