There are two occasions when the sacred beauty of Creation becomes dazzlingly apparent, and they occur together. One is when we feel our mortal insufficiency to the world, and the other is when we feel the world's mortal insufficiency to us.
The quote from Marilynne Robinson's "Gilead" highlights two profound moments in life, revealing the intense connection between humanity and the natural world. First, it suggests that we often recognize our own limitations, feeling small in the vastness of creation, which can evoke a sense of awe and wonder. This realization grounds us and emphasizes our mortality within the beauty of the world around us.
Secondly, the quote points to the experience of feeling that the world, in its imperfection, cannot fully meet our needs. This perceived deficiency can lead to a deeper appreciation of both ourselves and the creation itself, forging a bond that enhances our understanding of existence's fragility and beauty. Together, these moments illustrate the duality of our relationship with the universe, capturing our vulnerability and the divine beauty inherent in the human experience.
