“The spiritually hungry are always ready to learn more, for their hearts are eager to discover new truths.” (Proverbs 18:15 TPT)
Our identities and social standing are intertwined with our lifestyle choices. Our religion, politics, nationality, ethnicity, careers, homes, cars, leisure activities, hobbies, whether we wear masks, get vaccinated, smoke, drink alcohol, eat meat, exercise, carry guns, recycle--all are part of our identity. We are more likely to affirm those who share our values and vilify those who do not. We assign meaning and purpose to our choices. Furthermore, we conclude that life would not be worth living if we could not continue to live in ways that uphold this identity.
Why do we cling to certain perspectives and habits, even when they are not beneficial in the long term?
It takes months to develop a new beneficial habit. It takes years to shift perspectives that may result in inconvenience or loss of status. Anytime we try to change long-held habits or beliefs, our initial reaction is one of resistance. We do not want to go through the discomfort of doing things differently. Even challenging our current perspectives leads to cognitive dissonance.
New truths can only be discovered by those with an inner hunger to learn. This requires reevaluating our comfortable viewpoints and traditions. Our identities may unravel in the process. Deconstruction is messy. Like occupants in a home that is being remodeled, we feel unsettled and inconvenienced. Yet, we tolerate discomfort when we know it leads to beneficial change. It takes a while for the dust to settle and new identities to form. If we can remain receptive and disciplined during the process, we discover meaning and purpose in transformation.
No comments:
Post a Comment