I’ve noticed a pattern of behavior in my career as a small group trainer. When going around a group to do a check-in session, I will more often hear people describe their current hardships for several minutes and then finish their check-in with “but, other than that, I’m ok.”
We’re all, most likely, guilty of doing this at one time or another. In one sentence, we rationalize, accommodate, and negate all of our previous experiences with the simple phrase, “but I’m ok.”
What does “ok” even mean anyway? Does “ok” mean, we stuff the feelings associated with all the negative things for just a few minutes to get through it, but in reality, the stress of everything shows up in other ways; like eating, shopping, alcohol, anger, or drugs? Maybe “ok” means, we acknowledge all the difficulties going on in our life, but we also acknowledge there are some pretty good things; like good health, satisfying relationships, and a good friend.
Whatever “ok” means, speak your truth. If something is difficult, sit with the difficulty, acknowledge it by name, and describe it. Iyanla Vanzant is quoted saying, “The truth will set you free, but you have to endure the labor pains of birthing it.”[1]
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego not only knew their truth, they spoke it clearly to the King knowing full well the consequences to such a bold stance, “we will not serve your god or worship the golden statue” (Dn 3:18). In the Gospel, Jesus argues with the religious leaders as he claims his the truth of his identity as the Son of God with true authority to set others free and they will look to kill him for this truth.
As we move closer to Holy Week, while we are reflecting on the truth of our faith journey, we might also face consequences—including marginalization and conflict—if we remain true to our calling as Christians. What is the truth we need to confidently and lovingly speak? More importantly, how can we be patient through the process of birthing the truth of our faith?
As we approach the Sacraments in these last days of Lent and look forward to the Easter glory to come, let us consider, “What is going right with our faith life and what could be going more right?” This truth will set us free.
[1] Psychology Today, “The Truth Will Set You Free. Being honest about life’s hardships and using
what’s working to fix what’s not.” By Rubin Khoddam. Posted August 20, 2014.
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