We are all born into a narrative; a story about the world around us. Seldom do we question what we have been taught and how we think. The story began before us and will continue through us, or change direction.
Byron Katie often asks, "Who would you be without your story?"
Most of us are so embedded into the storyline, we don't even realize it is a story.
It may or may not be the whole story; but rather the parts our parents wanted to share with us.
A water down version of their lives.
Or, the picture perfect view, or what we now call the Facebook image.
There are political narratives, religious narratives, personal and family narratives, the list goes on and on.
But, what is the real truth in the world around us.
Are we not all fake news reporters?
Sharing somethings and being silent about others?
Can we know the wide and vast truths of the planet?
How much do you even know about another person?
Their fears, dreams, goals, secrets, truths, loves, hates, challenges, accomplishments etc.
We are demanding of others, to reveal their truths, while hiding behind our own.
What I have discovered about myself, was that the narrative I was born into would have run smoothly and unchallenged by me, if a small child hadn't pointed out a truth I wasn't able to see; but knew.
The truth of my father.
I feared him; but had no narrative as to why.
It was as if there were two narratives running simultaneously.
One was about the mundaneness of life; the daily routines and surface level activities we all do.
The other was the darker side of humanity.
The combination makes for a much different narrative.
Weaving together abuse and daily routines.
What happens when you leave the story you were born into?
Or challenge it?
Who will exit with you?
In a podcast with Rob Bell, he spoke about there needing to be a more compelling narrative, then the one that is most popular or in power.
For me, the more compelling was the truth of what is; reality.
Reality for me, was by far more compelling than any other narrative.
But it is rare to be a lover of reality. Most are into the narrative they were born into and will stay there until they die. They are not interested in leaving the comfort and ease that the storyline offers.
Truth doesn't have to exist in your life, it is not a pre-requisite.
The heroes journey, is one of self discovery. All are summoned; but not all answer the call. Pain is often the invitation to the journey. But, it is may not be more compelling than being accepted by family and friends.
The journey of exploring the narrative we are born into will often mean leaving or being shunned by, our old lives. It is the dark night of the soul.
Lent, I heard is for reflection. Or to show restraint; by giving up something you love.
I listened to a podcast where someone gave up their belief for Lent, by learning about another way to see God or not see him.
How interesting would Lent be, if we all were to learn about another's life.
To be introduced to another belief
or truth.
40 days of reflection upon a new side of what we don't know.
Perhaps giving up our faith in our belief to entertain another faith.
To see the world from their eyes.
Setting aside our narrative to hear another's.
What narrative do I need to hear?
Or, what narrative do I refuse to listen to?
Can I live a more compelling narrative than the one I was born into?
If we all explored our own narratives to find the narrow spots, imagine how our world would change? Be the change you want to see in the world.
Reflect upon a side you can't understand or believe.
