Authenticity

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The theme of authenticity surfaces for people as they search for their Powerful Question. “What is it to be authentic?”

We can substitute the words “real” or “true” for authentic, as it refers to our naked, unvarnished self. Most of us prefer not to expose ourselves to that level of scrutiny, but a Powerful Question calls us to that task.

Socrates said it point-blank, “An unexamined life is not worth living.” He was referencing our need to live a purposeful life.

Once found, our Powerful Question begins to strip away and free ourselves from the layers of self-image and illusion we construct to “fit in,” and at times, hide. What is left is the naked child God brought into the world, perfectly vulnerable, perfectly beautiful, and perfectly loving.

I think that is what the season of Lent is calling us to do, be authentic.

Brokenness

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Continuing to explore the life-changing impact of a Powerful Question, I note that the theme of“brokenness” appears from time to time. “Must I be broken?” and “Why must I be broken?”

The answer, to the first question is, of course, yes. In order to become a person who can fulfill God’s plan, we must be “broken” enough that God’s grace can pour in and glue us back together from the inside out. What we must not do is accept this as being powerless. This is power derived from a deep connection with Christ’s own suffering.

Jesus Christ submitted himself to the most demeaning and tortuous brokenness imaginable. It was his testament to what love requires and does.

As a theme that emerges in your life, reflect on whether you are resisting or embracing brokenness. If you have been resisting brokenness, what is it costing you? What fear is holding you back?

Your Thoughts?

Life Changing Benefits

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Second installment of the life-changing benefits of a Powerful Question.

Boundary has surfaced as a theme for a few people in the Powerful Question process. “What is boundary?” and, “What are my boundaries?” can indicate an inability to fully feel one’s own life, both its limits, and its possibilities.

Poor attachment experiences during early childhood can diminish the emotional skin needed for a healthy level of boundary and self-worth. That makes genuine connection with others difficult. Relationships become more like looking in a mirror than connecting. “I see you, but only as I see myself reflected in you,” and, “Your expression of affection means I have an obligation I will have to figure out.”

Connecting in meaningful relationship is seeing ourselves and others as more than just reflections. It is accepting that we need others, not because they can give us what we want, but because we cannot create a purposeful life without them. This is letting go of false pride and embracing true humility.

Boundary, the space we occupy as “us” is co-created!