Living in the Question

Our quality of life is determined by the quality of questions we ask. – Joel Goldsmith

Life is a magnificent tapestry woven with threads of mystery, uncertainty, and endless possibilities. At every turn, we encounter questions that beckon us to explore, to seek, and to discover the deeper truths that lie beneath the surface of existence. But how do we navigate this intricate web of uncertainty with grace and wisdom? How do we embrace the mysteries of life without succumbing to fear or doubt?

New Thought philosophy teaches us that the key lies in shifting our perspective from one of resistance to one of acceptance and curiosity. Instead of viewing questions as obstacles to be overcome, we can see them as invitations to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth. In the words of Rainer Maria Rilke, "Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves."

Living in the questions requires us to cultivate a mindset of openness and receptivity. Rather than clinging to rigid beliefs and dogmas, we must be willing to entertain new ideas and perspectives. This doesn't mean abandoning our principles; rather, it means approaching life with a sense of humility and wonder, recognizing that our understanding is always evolving.

This concept of “living in the question" encourages us to embrace the uncertainty of life and to approach every experience with an open mind and a curious heart. Instead of seeking rigid answers, we learn to dwell in the questions themselves, exploring them with a sense of wonder and possibility. Instead of seeking definitive answers, we learn to ask empowering questions that guide us on our journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth. Living in the question is an invitation to explore the depths of our own consciousness and to uncover the hidden truths that lie beyond our limited perception.

Learning how to effectively live in the question, can be accomplished by looking at where we are in our conscious evolution in each particular situation we face. Most spiritual teachers agree that we move through four Stages of Spiritual Development. They are commonly referred to this way:

VICTIM CONSCIOUSNESS (Things happen to me)

MANIFESTER CONSCIOUSNESS (I control things by making them happen)

CHANNEL CONSCIOUSNESS (Life moves through me creating the right experiences)

UNITIVE CONSCIOUSNESS (I experience Life from a state of Oneness)

Victim Consciousness Questions:

• Why me?

• Why is this happening to me?

• What did I do wrong?

• How did I cause/create that?

Manifester Consciousness Questions:

• What is here for me to know?

• What do I need to shift?

• How am I called to grow?

Channel Consciousness Questions:

• What do I need to forgive?

• What do I need to release?

• For what should I give thanks?

Unitive Consciousness Questions:

The answer is known before the question is asked.

Asking quality questions will keep us moving in the direction of spiritual discernment and the embodiment of spiritual truth.

• Michael Beckwith

One of the fundamental principles of New Thought is the power of the mind to shape our reality. As we navigate life's mysteries, we must harness the creative potential of our thoughts and beliefs. By cultivating a positive and empowering mindset and asking quality questions, we can transform challenges into opportunities and obstacles into stepping-stones.

But living in the questions isn't just about intellectual inquiry; it's also about embracing the mysteries of the heart and soul. It's about learning to trust the whispers of intuition and the guidance of our inner wisdom. As we journey through life, we encounter moments of profound synchronicity and serendipity that remind us of the interconnectedness of all things. These are the moments when we glimpse the deeper currents that flow beneath the surface of reality, guiding us on our path.

In the face of uncertainty, it's natural to seek certainty and security. True security comes from within, from knowing that we are connected to something greater than ourselves. It's about finding peace in the midst of chaos, and strength in the face of adversity. It’s asking quality questions from an empowered consciousness.

As we navigate the labyrinth of life's mysteries, let us remember that we are not alone. We are part of a vast cosmic dance, intricately woven together with the threads of existence. Each question we encounter is an opportunity to deepen our understanding and expand our consciousness.

We are continuously given the opportunity to embrace the mysteries of life with open arms and an open heart. Let us approach each question with curiosity and wonder, knowing that the answers we seek are waiting to be discovered within us. And may we remember, as the poet Pablo Neruda once wrote, "Perhaps the answers to all our questions are simpler than we think, and closer than we imagine."

Laura Hallett is a professional educator, curriculum designer, author, artist and illustrator of four books. Laura regularly speaks, conducts workshops, leads spiritual retreats and teaches on meditation and transformational spirituality. Rev Laura is the senior minister at Centre for Spiritual Living Greater Las Vegas.

https://www.lauratopper.com