Before Google and the Internet, something called “the librarian” could answer your questions.
In 1967, the New York Public Library established a phone-in service called “Ask A Librarian.” (It is still in existence and receives over 30,000 calls each year.)
Several years ago, they discovered a box of cards with questions librarians received. Here is a sample:
- What does it mean when you dream, you’re being chased by an elephant?
- Why do 18th Century English paintings have so many squirrels in them?
- If a poisonous snake bites itself, will it die?
The librarians fielded all questions. None of them were “stupid questions” but were treated as sincere attempts of people to learn things.
Questions are vital to learning. W. Edwards Deming said, “If you do not ask how to ask the right question, you discover nothing.”
Jesus knew that the inquisitive soul was on the right track. No one received answers to questions not asked. He told his audience:
“Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.” (Matthew 7:7)
Those with questions in their hearts find the answers of eternity. . When we ask God, he will tell us.
And with God, as with the librarians, there are no stupid questions, only correct answers.
-Robert G. Taylor-
