Whitney Bonheim- Mere Christianity

"If I find in myself a desire which no experience in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world," wrote C.S. Lewis in his book Mere Christianity. This quote in particular sums up the essence of Lewis's view on religion as well as the human condition. Lewis is not saying that we were made for another mortal place, like Mars, or even an alternate universe, but rather for a place that is divine. I think he hits home with a lot of people, even those who do not believe in a higher power. We have all experienced the feeling that something is missing, or not quite right. We have all longed for something more even when it seems we have it all. There seems to be a place in humanity itself that seeks to be filled by something other than we already have. Lewis uses logic to demonstrate these ideas in a straight-forward way, using an argument that is hard to disagree with. In this way, he opens up the discussion of this "other world" in a non threatening way, especially for those who hold particular angst against the religious community. By using language that appeals to all audiences he is able to more effectively spread his ideas and his beliefs without sounding threatening while still remaining true to his faith. I respect that he has the intellect to articulate such beliefs with confidence and assertiveness. Thinking over this particular quote has led me to agree with him and wonder if everyone feels this same pull and the same lack of fulfillment from worldly pleasures? Is the human search for satisfaction destined to end in the divine, or are some of us able to find happiness in this world? I would argue that there is a place, no matter how deep or hidden, that desires interaction with a higher power and that the pleasures the world offers are merely a distraction from the ultimate desire of our hearts.