This post is about taking a common, perhaps slightly coarse phrase like “who gives a crap?” and elevating it to a fundamental question about purpose, meaning, and what truly matters in life. Reframing “Giving a Crap”: Instead of dismissal, we can see it as asking: “What holds genuine value for me? What am I willing to invest my energy, emotions, and time into? What defines my purpose?” If I spend time exploring my own thoughts, I hope this will help you.
The Farm and Caring for Young People: The farm is a tangible answer to that question. It’s not just land and animals; it’s a place where care is actively demonstrated, especially towards young people. By providing them with opportunities, support, or perhaps just a safe space, the farm becomes a vehicle for “giving a crap” about the next generation, their well-being, and their future. It embodies purpose beyond mere subsistence or profit; it’s about nurture and positive impact.
The Example of Jesus: Jesus’s humanity shone through when He wept at Lazarus’s death. This wasn’t an aloof God; it was deep, personal connection and sorrow. He profoundly “gave a crap” about his friend and the grief of Mary and Martha. His ultimate sacrifice, giving his life, is presented in Christian belief as the ultimate act of “giving a crap” – a selfless act driven by love for humanity, offering redemption and hope. It demonstrates that the deepest care often involves sacrifice.
Heroes of Compassion: People like Mother Teresa exemplify this on a grand scale. She dedicated her entire life to caring for the destitute and dying in Kolkata, those whom society had largely forgotten. Her motivation wasn’t wealth or fame; it was a deep-seated conviction about the inherent dignity of every human being and a powerful calling to serve. She absolutely “gave a crap” about the marginalised.
What Do We Care About? Money vs. Meaning: I question the common pursuit of money. While necessary for living, making it the reason for living often leads to emptiness. Does one truly “give a crap” about the money itself, or what it enables? And even then, does what it enable align with deeper values? Love, connection, contributing to others’ lives, experiencing the richness of life itself – these seem far more substantial things to dedicate oneself to. Living to give back, centres purpose outside of oneself.
As I approach my 64th birthday this Tuesday (April 15th, wishing me a happy one!), I need to clearly defined what I “give a crap” about.
Serving Jesus: My commitment to Jesus and its principles guides my actions. Whilst caring for Anna, Abigail, and Mia is a core motivator. Investing in the next generation through the farm and likely other ways.
My enjoyment of Rosie, our Morris Minor, and running the farm are important parts of my life. But, their deeper value comes from how they fit into or support that larger purpose. Perhaps Rosie represents simpler joys or heritage, shared experiences. The farm is a direct tool for serving young people and providing for your family. They aren’t just ends in themselves but are integrated into a life dedicated to service and love.
In essence, the question “What do you give a crap about?” prompts us to look beyond superficial wants and identify the core commitments that shape a meaningful life. For me this meaning is found powerfully in faith, family, and serving others.
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