Today, some have seriously thought of exchanging a theology once handed down to them by family members for another belief system that in their minds can better tackle the questions that accompany pain. God, as they understand God, just doesn’t seem to ease the emotional and mental anguish brought about by unexpected and vicious events. My hope in this brief letter is to inspire those of you who are experiencing such a theological shift. Unlike a call to maintain the “faith of your fathers,” my goal here is to encourage you to grab hold of whatever new ideas that bring you a sense of lasting peace.
The death of a loved one, the loss of a most intimate relationship, or the unbearable relinquishing of a cherished have caused men and women from all walks of life to think twice about what they have held sacred for some time. In my book, Spiritual Care to Elderly and Dying Loved Ones, I write about a woman who decided to change what she believed after losing not one, not two, but three of her children. This massive loss led the Jewish mother (who I call Diane in the book) into an agnostic theology. She didn’t have animosity toward the divine. She simply could not fathom a loving God allowing a mother to bury all of her children.
Like Diane, I, too, underwent a theological facelift, if you will. After the death of my child, I ventured quietly into an inner dialogue on what constitutes faith for me. Years later, and after much soul searching and turmoil, I reached a new territory, one that has given me a new identity and a more peaceful outlook. I no longer fit into my once conservative views; those shoes no longer snuggle comfortably around my feet. Instead, I embrace a faith that generates love, meaning, and purpose without a need to defend the Almighty. And most of all, it trims down those restless haunting vibrations of the past.
Often we read of how someone drew closer to God as they understand God. This is both common and commendable. However, less attention and praise are given to the new spiritual discoveries that can come out of creating a fresh form of spirituality. Books by great minds on the subject are out there, no doubt. Unfortunately, they receive little popularity unless, that is, someone wants to use the much needed discussion for controversy or for ratings.
As an admirer of spirituality and a soon-to-be practicing psychotherapist, I find it important to create a positive space for clients, young and older, who are looking to make a theological change in the name of finding lasting peace. I want to put into motion a safe atmosphere for individuals who are struggling yet again to make sense out of chaos. Theological surgery is no easy task, especially for those who are moving away from long held beliefs. Thus, I find it imperative to provide a nonjudgmental setting for them to explore. If these words ring true for you, I wish you well in your journey. And know that you are not alone.
Kevin Quiles 2011
Tags: signs and connections
