Spaces of Truth

"..I am the way, the truth, and the life..."
-John 14:6-

In our world of increasing technological options and their use at break-neck speeds, the polarization of truth versus deceit in AI applications and search engines and apps and media and every other piece of information at our fingertips is becoming an insurmountable beast.

We also observe societies in our world where integrity and honesty no longer guide an individual's decisions, and words and actions against truth in the quest for power and fame smash moral compasses, thus impacting the interactions and outcomes of communities and nations. 

When we are increasingly surrounded with deceit and falsehoods and lies:
How do we know what and who is real?
How do we know what and who is honest?
How do we know what is true?

And if we're not sure, how and where do we seek truth in all things?
How do we create a space and sanctuary for truth in our lives and the lives of those whom we love?

I'm not going to profess to have an exact answer for these questions; however, I do have ideas to ponder, try, and observe to fit for your specific situations.

"To say of what is that it is not, or of what is not that it is, is false; but say of what is that it is, and of what is not that is not, is true."
-Aristotle-

Truth is a principle studied, discussed, and applied since the creation of this world and its first humans. For many people, truth is an eternal and spiritual principle that stands as a foundational pillar to the life of the individual, the family, and society.

Whether or not you believe in God, we start with Deity to understand the source of truth. In multiple religions and philosophies across centuries, truth has always existed and continues to exist, regardless of societal conventions or laws . It was not created by man, cannot be altered to replace one's preferences (Example, "I'm living my truth.") and applies to every living organism. 

In most faiths, the creation of our universe and our physical bodies and spiritual souls is directed by a Creator who is the arbiter of truth and from whom all knowledge and understanding about truth flows. Thus, in seeking truth in the most important or mundane of tasks or situations, we direct our attention and queries to the Source of truth. And we take a leap of belief and faith in an expectation to receive that which we are seeking.

Being a constant seeker of truth provides the opportunity for increased practice in asking questions in all situations that lead to given answers - typically manifesting themselves through thoughts, feelings, and even influential experiences.

We then must act or experiment upon the truth we observe and obtain. Abiding by or refusing truth's dictates results in universal outcomes. For example, when you step off a cliff gravity pulls you towards the earth's core - regardless of your preference and strongest wishes to float or fly. A good seed, if planted and nourished properly, will bear fruit of its origin. We cannot plant watermelon seeds and expect oak trees to grow, no matter our desired preferences and sheer stance. If we consistently consume poor (unhealthy) food and water, poor education and training, poor entertainment (language, visual scenes, ideas), poor social interactions, and so on - the outputs in our life will be commensurate with these inputs and also be "poor."

As a believer in and receiver of miracles, I attest that direct correlations between efforts and results can be magnified where 2+2 = 10. However, these occurrences that appear to alter the "input = output" axiom are also based in truths associated with the working of miracles. 

It's crucial to continue to hone our skills of recognizing those feelings - known as intuition, our "gut", vibes, and the Holy Spirit - as we continue to seek truth. By doing so, we create a hallowed space within and around us that invites more manifestation of truth and allows us to influence others within our sphere. We're able to share our own experiences that encourage others to follow the pattern of seeking and recognizing truth. In doing so, we gain confidence in boldly and lovingly speaking in support of truth.

These spaces can become sanctuaries of truth both in our homes and in our minds. When we focus on this space of truth, strength and power to persist through darkness and deceit and lies - wherever we may be - will increase.   

So, let's get specific on what and how we can observe, ask, and ponder in our efforts to seek truth. Consider the following: 

*Check your sources. We should be seeking with an expectation that the source of all truth - God - will lead us to truth as we ask to receive. And within this quest, we need to use the intelligence we have been given when evaluating the earthly sources of information all around us. Are the sources credible (and what gives them credibility)? A scroll through headlines or a 60-second Tik-Tok video rant is not a wise method to ensure the real from the false. Do the work to review the source. Your efforts will allow you to parse out the reputable from the scheming and manipulative and guide you toward who and where to seek information.
*Check your gut. How do you feel? Truth offers clarity, calm, and peace. Deceit and lies offer uneasiness and uncertainty. If you take a moment to be still, to limit noise and distractions, you will recognize the inner voice which illuminates truth and warns of lies.
*Be aware of subtle shifts. Often, truth is eroded instead of blasted in one shot. Meaning, if truth can be mixed with mild deceit or false information, the resulting concoction is easier to believe and the lies easier to miss. And then more distortions are added to the mix until verity is absent. 
*Be intentional. Sincerity applied in any effort produces greater results. 
*Be diligent. We're going to fumble and fall in the pursuit of truth. We may be duped, cheated, and disinformed. So expect this, accept it, and know it's part of the process. The beautiful recognition about stumbling as you pursue truth - is that you're still moving forward toward the very thing you are seeking. 

Truth is a beautiful principle of our existence, friends. Indeed, it is the foundation of our existence. It desires to be sought, lived, and shared. Power is ours to navigate our lives and create goodness when we align ourselves with truth. Go forward and seek truth.

And remember - you are divine and loved. You are beautiful, worthy, and strong.

Lovingly,