In response to the commencement speech at Benedictine College given by Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker, there has been much discussion about the nature of work, the impact of modernity on family dynamics, and the challenges faced by individuals in today's society.
While many have weighed in on this topic, I believe there are still aspects that warrant further exploration.
Firstly, I must address the notion of a "stupid job," as mentioned by columnist Amy Welborn.
As someone who has worked in what some may consider trivial or unimportant roles, I can empathize with Butker and others who may feel that their work is not always valued or respected.
Whether it's writing TV cop shows or kicking a ball through goalposts, every job has its own significance and contributes to the functioning of society in its own way.
Butker's speech also touched on the roles of husbands and wives, prompting me to reflect on the evolving nature of work and family life.
Christian commentator Alex Sosler's observation about the impact of modern culture on family dynamics resonated deeply with me.
The idea of mutual homemaking, where the career versus family struggle is nonexistent, harks back to a time when such a balance was more readily achievable.
I am reminded of my own grandparents, who lived a lifestyle rooted in agricultural practices that predated the Industrial Revolution.
They were pioneers in their own right, embracing a way of life that emphasized self-sufficiency and a deep connection to the land.
Their existence was characterized by a harmonious blend of work and home life, where the boundaries between the two were fluid and intertwined.
In contrast, the Industrial Revolution ushered in an era of mass production and mechanization, leading to a significant shift in the traditional roles of men and women.
Men were drawn away from their homes and families to toil in factories, while women found themselves grappling with new expectations and demands in an evolving social landscape.
The repercussions of this societal transformation are evident in the strains placed on modern relationships.
The mechanization of daily life has created a palpable sense of disconnect and dissonance within many households, contributing to the breakdown of marriages and family units.
The erosion of these fundamental structures is a poignant reminder of the far-reaching consequences of industrial progress.
While my grandparents' agrarian way of life may be a relic of the past, the challenges faced by contemporary families are no less daunting.
Economic pressures, exorbitant living costs, and the necessity for dual-income households have become ubiquitous features of modern society.
The realities of maintaining a livelihood in today's world often compel individuals to engage in what may be perceived as "stupid jobs," as aptly articulated by Welborn.
The financial constraints faced by many families render alternatives such as homeschooling unattainable, further underscoring the pervasive impact of economic realities on lifestyle choices.
The need to sustain basic necessities supersedes idealized notions of simplicity and self-sufficiency, compelling individuals to navigate a complex web of obligations and commitments.
Yet amidst these challenges, there remains an enduring call to uphold values that transcend the constraints of circumstance.
Whether one is a professional athlete, a farmer, or a writer, the imperative to embody principles rooted in compassion, integrity, and empathy is universal.
The capacity to respond to this call, to be conformed to a higher purpose, is not contingent upon one's occupation or social standing.
As we grapple with the complexities of modernity and its impact on our lives, it is imperative that we cultivate a spirit of resilience and adaptability. The ability to navigate the intricacies of contemporary existence while upholding enduring virtues is a testament to the indomitable human spirit.
In conclusion, Harrison Butker's commencement speech has sparked meaningful dialogue about the nature of work, the evolving dynamics of family life, and the enduring pursuit of values that transcend temporal constraints.
While the challenges posed by modernity are formidable, they are not insurmountable.
It is incumbent upon us to embrace these challenges with fortitude and grace, guided by a steadfast commitment to principles that endure beyond the ephemeral trappings of contemporary existence.
