I have been reflecting a lot on "mistakes" and I am wondering what is classified as a mistake? There's a book I want to read: Adventures in the Margin of Error. I have a feeling it celebrates, or at least tolerates, failure. It's like I just need someone to say everything will be okay.
I usually do not regret anything I do, but something I did this past year negatively affected someone very close to me and it stings deeply. I had never really affected another person directly with my behavior. This is new for me and much more painful.
We all affect each other. It's hard to know sometimes if what we are doing is straying from the truth or if it is revealing it in unexpected ways. Sometimes "mistakes" produce an irreplaceable outcome for the better. And other times, of course, they merely create suffering. Even suffering, though, can be questioned for its usefulness. With this knowledge, I find myself questioning almost everything I do, yet trying to find the peaceful place of not second-guessing too much. How much monitoring is helpful? When does it become hurtful? I am aware of my face, my body, the tone of my voice, my words, my breath. I guess there is a price to pay for enlightenment even. Is this price the feeling of being isolated? I know we are all connected, but I also know there is a complete universe inside of me and I am responsible for its government.
Any thoughts to share? Mistakes you might think were helpful? Tips for letting things go?
I think that to believe in God, in the death of Jesus Christ because of love, and victory through his resurrection, to save all people from sin is a thing done right that is worth more than any mistake.
ReplyDelete"Sin" here is not so much the deeds we do, "the mistakes", but the imperfect nature of people. A realistic and healthy understanding of our spiritual poverty, limits, and how we aren't God allows us to appreciate what Jesus did for us and continues to do.
I think what you speak of in your second to last paragraph is spiritual maturity, making progress in being near to God. What does it look like to me?
To me it is loving God, and loving others as we love ourselves, and having enough discernment to know how to do so, without being "scrupulous" or too hard on ourselves about things that aren't sinful, that aren't separating us from God (based on the bible teachings.) At the same time, we can always come to God for forgiveness as we try our best to obey Him.
It has always helped me to read the Scriptures to know God better. There comes a time when we embody the Scriptures (without being God), although I believe it is always beautiful and necessary to read them. I like a mix of contemplative prayer, spoken prayer, memorized prayer, and bible reading.
It is often a matter of being honest with ourselves, and if we truly don't know the right thing to do, ask for God's guidance and read the Scriptures. I believe the standards are in the bible and the rest is a matter of discernment and having faith that God is truly good.
:) You always ask such interesting, meaningful questions. <3
Thanks for the time you took to give me such insight, Jade. <3
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