What's Outdated?

A. Unabashed Pacifist:

“I won’t go to war because it’s dumb.” – Jeffrey, age 11.

B. Unabashed Christian:

Holy One,

As my morning fog gradually dissipates, I see it slowly emerge, magnificent in its awesome splendor, the mountain of God – where it has stood all along.
Amen

C. Un-quoting Jesus:

"Dad says to tell you: the Earth is not expendable. It will outlast you."

[No, didn't say it - probably - but today He would, right?]

D. Blog: Outdated

The actor Matt Damon caused a recent stir when he said James Bond is outdated. Damon’s own Bourne movies are, in contrast we may assume, up to date (indated?). In terms of technology and special effects and action, he has a point.

But I suggest that James Bond has style and class, whereas Bourne runs a maze. Bond was always at home with himself, whereas Bourne never really knows who he is. My own view is that I will watch Bourne for the adrenalin rush. I’ll enjoy Bond for the class – and I’ll watch some of those "outdated" Bond movies more than once. Once is enough with Bourne movies.

Other, perfectly functional things are also called outdated, especially by those interested in selling the newest fashions, whether in clothing or home building products or vehicles, and whether the updated versions function any better than those that are called out of fashion. In our house, the linoleum, “popcorn” ceilings, and counter top material must be updated, we hear, if we ever hope to sell our house. But they look fine. They work fine. I say we keep them.

I think we should declare some things not just outdated, but obsolete. How about making celebrity news out of fashion? Who really cares? How much room does ancient art take up in museums? Why?? More significantly, let’s call neoconservative politics, evangelical clergy as spokesmen (usually) of Christianity, the US imperial vision, or its divine blessing – all terribly outdated.