Coping with Uncertainty
Observations/Reflections: On Coping with Uncertainty
Status: Dictated but Not Reviewed
Published: 03/06/09
Written: 02/08/09
Dictated By: Flint McGlaughlin
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What Shall It Profit?
By William Dean Howells
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If I lay waste and wither up with doubt
The blessed fields of heaven where once my faith
Possessed itself serenely safe from death;
If I deny the things past finding out;
Or if I orphan my own soul of One
That seemed a Father, and make void the place
Within me where He dwelt in power and grace,
What do I gain by that I have undone?
Howells poem reminds me of my own journey...
When I was a child, in a moment of personal crisis, I etched out these words: "Everything is uncertain." Then I crossed out the word "is." Then I crossed out the word "everything." Then I laid down my pen and wept. In time, it occurred to me that the notion of "everything" and of "is" represented some form of being and of doing (subject/predicate). From there, I concluded that I am "being" and that my effort to ascertain is "doing". Eventually, I restored all three words of my simple sentence, and in a way, I have never moved past them. It is true I have embraced a life of faith, but not from the victory over uncertainty, but rather because of it.
Comments
Well, My friend;
There are very few times when one can be certain, absolutely certain, of any one thing. Aside from Love, God, and Death - there is not very much in this life you can claim with absolute certainty. And while some will contest all three of these certainties based on their own personal experiences, there is nothing else one man, or woman, can add to this list as more true. I do not feel you are "discouraged" by this revelation, or discovery, but if you are, know that I for one find more respect in your choice due to it.
Choosing a life of faith as a result of uncertainty is in itself profound. Rather than "overcoming uncertainty" and blindly following a path, you've chosen sight, knowledge and acceptance. I, myself, don't believe one can actually overcome uncertainty, it would only be personal perception to be absolutely certain of everything.
I applaud you for your lifestyle, and as a friend, I am uplifted and encouraged by your insight and actions.
You may however take comfort in these three absolutes, for even death itself is positive, in faith, and all else becomes daunting... Even uncertainty.
-Matt
(From Blockbuster)
Posted by: Matthew N. Spivey | March 16, 2009 11:55 AM