Brazen

"You give your opinion very decidedly for so young a person." - Lady Catherine de Bourgh to Miss Elizabeth Bennett in Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice.

For those of you unfamiliar with the story here referenced, Elizabeth is the heroine and Lady Catherine is a very proud patroness. We are tempted at this line to feel disdain toward Lady Catherine's air of superiority, mostly because we are already drawn to a high level of affinity for Miss Elizabeth. But I would like to suggest that we check that disdain, and rather replace it with a Scriptural perspective.

Contrasted with two of her younger sisters, Miss Elizabeth is perceived to be a right model for behaviour in many ways, which is good and fine. But we find Miss Elizabeth's brazen posture at some points, particularly this moment with Lady Catherine, to be borderline repugnant. She displays a lack of respect and regard for the wisdom and even the general status of her elder acquaintance.

We ought to be reminded by Lady Catherine's words, of those Scriptural principles which instruct us regarding relations with those who have earned a place of honor through their advanced age, wisdom, and experience. A simple concordance search on "wisdom" and "counsel" yields an excellent stride toward a right perspective.

This particular interaction in Pride and Prejudice is of little consequence, but it provides an opportunity for us to ponder our own regard for those wiser than ourselves. I confess that I often place too high a value on my own thoughts and contribution to a discussion. I have frequently given my opinion very decidedly in spite of my age and the company in which I sit. In fact, I might even reckon this to be one reason that many have guessed my age to be more advanced than it is, not so much because of the wisdom of my contribution but rather due to the manner in which it is shared.

While I have no desire to have a Lady Catherine figure in my life, condescendingly reminding me of my very low status in society, I do want to make a better effort at "knowing my place."