'God's Problem Child' is 'Still Not Dead'

Nelson in 2007  (Photo by Robbiework)

Although long-standing breathing difficulties have recently come and gone, Willie Nelson is (as always) very much alive.

He is presumably still grappling with God.  Raised within the Methodist Church, Nelson has drawn inspiration from numerous sources.  In his book, The Tao of Willie, Nelson cites some teachings of Lao Tzu and emphasizes the following:  Underlying everything is the simple idea of love.  At times, he has also discussed beliefs in reincarnation.

Nevertheless, Nelson tends to returns to his Christian roots.  When Abbott Methodist Church, “where he first performed as a musician,” was in danger of closing, Nelson purchased the building “so the congregation could continue holding services.”  He has included “many Christian-themed songs and gospel albums” in his repertoire.

Nelson has undertaken many social-justice causes.  “A staunch environmentalist,” he practices what he preaches.  Willie's home is powered by the sun, and his tour buses run on biodiesel fuel.  He has played “countless benefit concerts” for “family farmers” in need.

Grappling aside, Nelson honors the Grand Mystery of it all.  He has stated:  I don’t think any person has any special knowledge about what God has planned for me and you any more than me and you do.

Resources

http://hollowverse.com/willie-nelson/ 

Copyright March 24, 2017 by Linda Van Slyke   All Rights Reserved