Open Your Heart to Limitless Possibilities and Clarity

Chapter 1: Embracing Uncertainty

Recognizing that we don’t possess all the answers can lead to unexpected opportunities. Accepting uncertainty can reveal new pathways in life.

As I prepare to resume my doctoral studies, I’m prompted to reflect on the question, “What if I’m mistaken?” This inquiry encourages me to remain open to various possibilities that I may not yet recognize, ultimately guiding me toward clarity in my journey.

This question also invites me to keep my heart receptive to the diverse perspectives that will influence my research. It fosters humility and reinforces the importance of focusing on divine wisdom rather than solely my own thoughts. During my interview to return to the program, the administrator posed a significant question: Could I have been pursuing the wrong questions? My response? Certainly!

We gain strength by listening and wisdom by sharing. — Rania Al-Abdullah

Spirit, guide me in keeping my heart open to the possibilities that will illuminate my path. Help me to relinquish my ego and acknowledge that I am not infallible. Life thrives in community, and to keep my heart open, I must accept the unknown and the possibility of being wrong.

Perhaps you are someone who prides themselves on being open-minded—or maybe you are convinced of your correctness. But what if that belief is misguided? We all possess blind spots. Recognizing these can enhance our self-awareness and clarify how we engage with the world.

How do you confront your blind spots? The exercise below can help illuminate these areas. What you choose to do with this awareness is a personal journey between you and your God.

But consider this: if you confront your blind spots and allow them to guide you toward growth and change, wouldn’t that be a worthwhile goal? Let’s explore!

Remember, blind spots correspond to our weaknesses.

Perhaps your blind spot is indulging in unhealthy snacks.
Maybe you spend excessive time binge-watching shows or gaming.
Could it be that you frequently tell loved ones you’re too busy?
Are you overly critical of others (and yourself)?

It's perfectly valid if you’re uncertain about your blind spots.

Exercise

Find a quiet space where you can sit comfortably for 15 to 30 minutes. You can either use a journal to organize your thoughts or close your eyes and embrace the stillness. Pose this question: "God, what are my blind spots?"

Everyone has blind spots, so there’s no reason for shame. Acknowledging this is an essential step in your journey. Keep in mind that each person's blind spots differ, which is what makes you unique. This diversity enables each of us to contribute our strengths and weaknesses within a community.

After you pose the question, allow time for answers to surface. If no insights emerge immediately, don't be discouraged. Sometimes it takes days or weeks for clarity to arrive.

Don’t be surprised if the revelations challenge your previous beliefs.

The Blind Men and the Elephant (A Lesson in Perspective)

A group of blind men encounters an elephant, each tasked with describing it based on their limited experience.

Blind Man 1 touches the ears and declares the elephant resembles a large fan.
Blind Man 2 feels the leg and insists it’s akin to a tree trunk.
Blind Man 3 encounters the trunk and claims it resembles a thick snake.
Blind Man 4 touches the tail and asserts it’s like a brush.

Is one of them wrong? Are they all incorrect? Or is there a grain of truth in each description?

Ultimately, it all boils down to perspective.

Reflection Questions

List your blind spots—areas where you feel less competent. For example, I lack a knack for math or science, which my father excelled in.
Identify your strengths. Personally, I thrive in creativity and find that quiet, contemplative settings benefit me greatly. What about you?
How have your blind spots and strengths shaped your life path? I enjoyed a successful career in graphic design before returning to writing, steering clear of scientific fields that overwhelmed me.
What aspirations have you set aside due to your blind spots? I sometimes regret not pursuing photojournalism but now aim to blend art and theology through my meditations.

Summary

I have no regrets about my journey as a graphic designer/art director; perhaps it simply wasn't the right time for me to chase photojournalism. What once felt daunting has become manageable through awareness.

What about you? Are there dreams you've shelved? They still exist, waiting for you to acknowledge them. What’s holding you back? Are you resisting the unknown?

Putting it into Practice

Three times a day—at home, work, and leisure—recognize the unknown and the uncertainties in life. Remind yourself daily that it’s acceptable to be incorrect and to not have all the answers.

After two weeks of this practice, reflect on any changes in your perspective. What has become clearer? What insights about yourself have emerged?