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Writer's pictureFr. Seraiah

Is it wrong?

When you say that something is "wrong" what do you mean by that? Is "wrong" closer to "incorrect" or to "bad", because they are not always the same. It might be correct to say that someone is brainwashed, but it might not be good to do so. A "wrong" thing can be to say, "two plus two equals five". If, however, someone does not know that it is actually "wrong" then it is not necessarily bad. All too often people make claims like, "there's nothing wrong with that" (when actually there is much wrong, they just did not ask the right questions).


When you are encouraged to do something you think may be sinful, do you ask, "is it wrong?" That might not be the best question to ask in that situation. We can find ways that some action might not seem to us to be "wrong" and it can still be sinful. Another question that we should ask in that situation (but is rarely done today) is, "is it wise?" Wisdom will help us to clarify a behavior in a completely different way than will the question about whether something is "wrong".


Another question we can use to help us know what to do when tempted is, "is it proper?" Propriety (though sadly neglected today) is a vital consideration in these instances. Someone might not think it "wrong" to wear certain clothing, and it also might seem to be wise, but when asked if it is "proper" a whole new range of issues arises. If propriety (with a biblical foundation) were considered, then many decisions (including ones about clothing) would be made differently.


Finally, one more question that will give us what we are really looking for when we are examining an action for whether it should be engaged in is, "is it holy?" Hopefully, many Catholics already use this gauge for their decision making process, but it still needs to be pointed out. Few people who have a conscience would be willing to claim much of the behavior of modern day Americans is "holy", and that should make us take notice. The question of holiness makes us look outside our own limited understanding and ask about God's opinion (which is what really matters).


Is it wrong? Is it wise? Is it proper? Is it holy? When trying to make those big decisions in life, make sure you ask the right questions; and make sure you ask all the right questions. To fall short in your responsibilities in this area can definitely lead you down the wrong path.

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