DYNAMIC STABILITY
Today’s post is the last of this “Heading Out or Holding On” series.The subject has not been exhausted, but I am. I want to conclude with some general thoughts and observations about dynamic stability.
Dynamic stability is oxymoronic, paradoxical and counter-intuitive. I think Jesus might have liked the idea. Using metaphors is always risky, they are powerful teaching tools but ultimately break down under the scrutiny of disenchanted, either/or reasoning.
As I have continued to think about dynamic stability, in particular…what is the [spiritual] equivalent of paddling as fast as the water or maintaining dynamic stability?
Then the conflicting idea of anchors comes to mind. I recall much emphasis in my religious heritage about having a solid anchor…
Will your anchor hold in the storms of life
Will your anchor hold in the storms of life,
When the clouds unfold their wings of strife?
When the strong tides lift, and the cables strain,
Will your anchor drift or firm remain?
We have an anchor that keeps the soul
Stedfast and sure while the billows roll,
Fastened to the Rock which cannot move,
Grounded firm and deep in the Savior’s love.
That song, deeply embedded in my soul, is the essence of holding on. I remember countless sermons on anchors, steadfastness, solid rock, et al. The objective of faith as I was taught was to grasp and hold on… firmly. As I remember those years, it occurred to me what a radical contrast the idea of heading out is compared to holding on. Holding on is clearly a biblical concept, as is Heading Out. Our inability to reconcile them reflects enlightenment thinking which requires either/or. I have come to understand the importance of embracing paradox…the ability to hold lightly apparently contradictory truths.
Allowing paradox to exist without trying to explain it away or simplify is a sign of a mature faith. It seems to me that a great deal of heretical thinking begins with a discomfort with tension and a need to simplify, clarify, and reduce complexity. Paradox, like harmony, elevates each distinct idea without calling for a compromise.
Jen Pollock Michel “Surprised by Paradox”
I am increasingly convinced choosing to hold on or head out is a critical juncture in one’s spiritual journey.
[Writing this post has made me realize, my decision to make this the last post in this series was premature , too many side trips to explore . Sorry for the detour today]
I have chosen to head out. Making that decision has not exempt me perils of the journey, ie rapids. Dynamic stability becomes relevant to those negotiating rapids or riding a bicycle.
Having failed as promised in my previous post, my next post will explore dynamic stability in more detail and what it looks like for me negotiating the turbulent waters of these days.
Still on the journey.