SEEKERS OF TRUTH ASK QUESTIONS
Dr. Debi Gilmore LMFT
Have you ever had a question about God or the meaning and purpose of life, but you felt guilty for having that question? Maybe you worried about whom you could approach with that question for fear of being judged or labeled as rebellious or disrespectful for even questioning something you should just accept and move on.
What if we look at this from a different angle? If the most brilliant student in the classroom is the one who asks the most questions, then this principle should also be applied to the Seeker of Truth, longing to find direction in their journey through investigation, exploration, and challenging “what is.” Seekers of Truth must be able to freely ask questions without feeling shame. I think this is a huge misunderstanding about journeys of faith that tends to result in people feeling shamed and subsequently being labeled a rebel, or in a sinful state of murmuring.
The most dissatisfying response to a faith question is, “It just is what it is… don’t ask why.” I like to use “why” in my work with clients because it doesn’t necessarily lead them to a distinct answer, but it fosters a moment of processing and deeper thought. It inspires digging and pondering. If we don’t ask, “why?” then we may not successfully move into pondering and a state of healthy mindfulness.
The most dissatisfying response to a faith question is, “It just is what it is… don’t ask why.” I like to use “why” in my work with clients because it doesn’t necessarily lead them to a distinct answer, but it fosters a moment of processing and deeper thought. It inspires digging and mining for more. It encourages pondering, which helps us connect more efficiently to the spirit. If we don’t ask, “why?” then we may not successfully move into discovery and a state of healthy mindfulness.
Pondering, processing, and questioning is an essential part of faith building. When we proceed with an open and teachable heart, a spiritual comfort and peace can accompany our reaches to God. Many find that this leads them to a sense that, “Maybe the ‘why’ doesn’t matter anymore, as long as I feel the companionship of the Spirit while I seek for meaning, purpose, and direction.”
The best guidance I like to offer people who find themselves in a state of questioning is to suggest they seek the most helpful sources. These suggested sources do not include the internet, or meeting with those who are also confused and feeling lost. Seek out someone you trust that is grounded in wisdom and insight. They will be able to be with you in the midst of your questions, not judge you for having them, and will help you with compassionate patience in the process.
These suggested sources do not include the internet, or meeting with those who are also confused and feeling lost. Similarly, when you are going through a very difficult trauma or challenge, you wouldn’t meet with someone who is also hurting, confused, or traumatized because they are not able to offer you the scaffolding and support you desperately need. This is why I recommend seeking out someone who has found peace and clarity. They will be able to be with you in the midst of your questions, not judge you for having them, and will help you exercise patience in the process.
Consider the following list of resources that may bring you greater satisfaction and success in your journey:
1. Prayer or Meditation: Spending quiet time in prayer or meditation can bring an abundance of peace and clarity. Slowing down and setting aside distractions is the most effective way to find answers and direction.
2. Sacred Text (Scriptures): Reading ancient writings can be challenging for some, particularly because the language is so foreign to our typical day-to-day conversations. However, the more you immerse in the reading of ancient text, the more comfortable you become. Some find scriptural passages poetic and comforting. The suggestion I offer those who seek answers and truth is to open the scriptures to a random page. Bring a question to that moment of reading, and as you read try to keep your mind open to whatever impressions or promptings you may receive. Try this… trust me… this can be a powerful experience.
3. Journaling: Start by writing down your questions, doubts, and reflections. Once they are written in your journal, take each one and write about it. Write about the confusion, the specific question, and how it impacts your life. While writing, an abundance of inspiration can be a surprising result.
4. Spiritual Leaders and Mentors: Seek out someone with whom you feel safe, and someone you respect and admire because of their strength of faith. Set up the meeting by requesting that they just listen to your concerns and questions. Then, once you have expressed your question, listen intently to their counsel. Listen to your heart as they share their insight with you. As soon as possible, write down what you felt, and what stood out to you as the most helpful in that conversation.
As a part of this process, it is important that once you have sought out these healthy sources, you allow yourself time to process the thoughts and impressions that may have come to you. I like to recommend that seekers of truth pause, ponder, and reflect on a regular basis. With patience and regular practice, you may even begin to look forward to these moments of reflection.
When doubts arise, consider taking a deep breath and try to remember what you do know. This is an important part of the process, because your confidence will return when you can rely on what you already have cultivated in your foundation of faith. This is a process of questions, learning slowly, and receiving small portions of truth at a time. Maybe you will have days that you receive an abundance of insight, and other days that reveal just a spark of truth. Cherish all of those moments, write down what you learn, and hold on with patience.
Bottom line: Give yourself permission to ask questions—permission to seek for truths that will ultimately bring you peace, new direction, and a greater ability to recognize promptings from the spirit.
