“Oh well” can be an expression of patient acceptance or apathetic ambivalence. It is also a song whose lyrics speak volumes if we listen to them in a different context; they can shed a bit of light on our faith.

Written by Peter Green, the song came out by Fleetwood Mac in 1969. I’ve always loved the song – particularly the long version on their album, Then Play On — and considered the lyrics in ways that are likely different than Peter intended, but so be it. As with many creative works, the divine hides in the output, whether the artist realizes it or not.

There are only two stanzas in the song, the second of which is the one that speaks to me in gentle, mindful ways:

Now when I talk to God
I know he understands
He said “stick by me and I’ll be your guiding hand”
But don’t ask me what I think of you
I might not give the answer that you want me to

It is comforting to talk to God and know that He truly understands the human condition; He created us and He sent His son to be of us and among us. He encourages us to stay with Him; He and His commandments (particularly the two greatest) guide each of our moments on our quest to salvation. We are more than happy to hear from God that he loves us unconditionally and is willing to forgive us, but God is just, too. He would answer honestly if we asked what He thinks of us: We are sinners who are so caught up in our pride that the deadly sins access our minds, souls and action. We need forgiveness to receive salvation. We cannot do anything alone; nothing.  But, He loves us and wants nothing more than for us to spend eternity with Him.

Talking to God – prayer – should involve listening. Be strong enough to listen to the answers and humble enough to use God’s responses (which can include non-response) as insights to ways that we can grow in holiness and faith.