“Playing war” is an appropriate pastime for little boys who, as human development goes, are perpetually stuck in an ego-drama that pits them against anyone they encounter. They have not quite crossed the psychological threshold of the self into real contact with others, and so spend their afternoons arranging green plastic soldiers, constructing weapons out of popsicle sticks, and running around the yard making “pow pow pow” noises, all in an effort to protect and assert themselves in a world that feels unsafe. Such primal confusion (which is the root meaning of the word “war”) is perfectly consistent with a human life in process and the journey toward self-actualization. The problem, however, is that when little boys get stuck in this state of confusion, they never grow up and tragically mistake their versus mindset for reality. It’s not just that they are open to war as a necessary evil in a fallen society, but rather seek it out, crave it, and need it, unconsciously creating circumstances that fuel the false narrative of their inner turmoil. During this season of Lent, let’s make the decision to stand with the one in whom there is no confusion, who wages only peace, and in whom all things are reconciled (Col 1:15-20). Our inner little boy or girl will become an adult man or woman, and we shall be saved. Ave Crux, Spes Unica.
March 7, 2026
Published