It happened before; it can happen again. In the 7th and 8th centuries, the Christian civilization of the Franks seemed doomed. They were surrounded on all sides by ferocious enemies. It was only a matter of time until they were wiped out.
But then a series of kings came along, culminating in Charlemagne, and changed everything. The consequence of their greatness was European civilization itself.
This is why we call Charles the Father of Europe.
This is why we call Charles the Father of Europe.
A passage from Wilson's biography of Charlemagne captures the spirit of that accomplishment.
The important thing to remember is that Charlemagne was no mere hero. He was a man appointed by God to a remarkable destiny, and he understood his duty as well as any mortal ever has.
His letter to Pope Leo III says as much.
His letter to Pope Leo III says as much.
It's high time to discover a Carolingian sense of destiny. Ours probably won't play out on a world-historical scale, but our example of a life lived bravely and lovingly might have eternal consequences beyond our reckoning--especially in the turbulent times before us.
If you don't believe this and live accordingly, what are you even doing?
Another passage about Charles from Wilson's biography, which should stir the blood and suggest our path forward.
Another passage about Charles from Wilson's biography, which should stir the blood and suggest our path forward.
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