The Inner Ring

In C.S. Lewis' "The Inner Ring", he discusses humans as insiders and outsiders of groups. He discusses the amusement that people have in knowing that they are part of a select group who have authority to admit some into the "ring" or dismiss others from it. Lewis states that these "rings" are all around and those who are on the outside must be careful as to why they want in.

A serious question is raised, must we be apart of a select group to really feel as if we belong in society? Lewis points out that being a member of the "inner ring" is not an evil in itself, for some things must be kept from others, but he warns those who use the "ring" for gossip and deceit.

Another important topic that must be looked at is the importance of the individual. Society cannot consist of people who simply are all the same, all the time, about everything; we must have individuals who are unique and make choices for themselves.

In conclusion, Lewis points out that we must not be in search of these inner rings, but simply maintain fellowship with friends and that in doing so, secrecy and a sense of separation from others will naturally occur, as a sort of by-product. However, the importance is placed upon making true, friendships that strengthen our walks with Christ.