Writer: Robert Kirkman
Art: Charlie Adlard, Cliff Rathburn
The Walking Dead Vol 15 collects issues 85-90. After a zombie attack in their new found community, Rick is attempting to restore order. First, it’s Carl, who was shot during the attack (yes, it seems that Carl is always getting hurt). Next, it’s trying to fortify the community better than before. Not just from zombies, but from anyone else who may come across this place. It only seems like a few issues ago that survival went from protecting oneself from zombies to also protecting oneself from the living. Seems like no matter the horror around, mankind, because of its sinful nature, can’t seem to live in peace and harmony.
These very things are what puts Rick on edge. He is trying so hard to be a leader, to be a father, to have some sense of normalcy and future, that he is completely lost. He’s worried about Carl shutting down his emotions, when really, he himself has blocked it all out. He’s had a one track mind, and many have suffered because of it. In reality, it happens to the best of us. We try to carry the weight of the world on our shoulders, and become so stubborn and prideful that we forget that we are not alone. Rick forgot what it truly means to be part of a community. How a group working together, with one goal, is stronger than an individual. It’s one of the reasons why you can find several verses in the Bible that emphasize community.
“And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.” Hebrews 10:24-25 ESV
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6:2 ESV
Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection,t and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them. Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Romans 12:9-15
Rick, during this journey, has gotten lost, and what we find in volume 15 is the foundation of him finding his way back. Interestingly enough, his help may come from a trusted and reliable friend, an outcome that one would not have guessed, and yet makes perfect sense.
Final note: as a fan of the books and the show, I really hope the show can see the transformation of Rick through. Although one has already seen it starting to appear, I hope that it can continue to evolve.
Volume 15 gets a 6 out of 7 in my book
