I'm reading this book right now entitled, "Culture Making" by Andy Crouch. Not entirely the most inspiring title, but it was recommended by Hon Eng - an esteemed leader of the Intervarsity ministries here at Columbia University. I'd like to include an exerpt, because it ironically parallels a little of what's been rattling through my head lately:

"The essence of childhood is innocence. The essence of youth is awareness. The essence of adulthood is responsibility. This book is for people and a Christian community on the threshold of cultural responsibility.

...what we most have to learn about being creators of culture is the very thing we human beings find hardest to learn: everything about our calling, from start to finish, is a gift. What is most needed in our time are Christians who are deeply serious about cultivating and creating but who wear that seriousness lightly - who are not desperately trying to change the world but who also wake up every morning eager to create."

I love that concept of wearing seriousness lightly. The idea of carrying a significant burden on our shoulders - but carrying it lightly - it's something I remember previously being applied to the burden of wealth and prosperity. Both of these are burdens that we should not shrug off, but nevertheless walk around with the understanding that it can always be lifted at any moment.