The Wisdom of Uncertainty

Contrary to popular opinion, we, as human beings, don’t really know much at all. I’m aware that might cause the mind to bristle a little, perhaps even bring out a little righteous indignation in some of you, but it’s impossible to deny when you look a little deeper. In uncertain times, it is only natural for us to search for certainty. It provides a feeling of comfort, of safety, perhaps even a sense of belonging. In a world where everything is constantly changing—where people, places, politics, situations, and even our own mind is in a constant state of flux—the illusion of certainty is highly appealing…and reassuring. It’s important to differentiate between what we know and what we believe, what we know and what we suspect, and what we know and what we’ve been told. What we know is only what we experience, no more and no less. If we let go of everything we’ve ever read, ever heard, or ever been told, then we are left with nothing but our experience. And even this is constantly changing as each moment and each experience gives way to the next. So, when all said and done, we are left with nothing but the experience of the present moment. The certainty of now. For some, this type of reflection is a revelation—an opportunity to let go of old baggage, and a vehicle to a renewed sense of wonder and curiosity in life. They can almost hear collective consciousness breathe an enormous sigh of relief as each and every one of us realizes that we no longer need to pretend to have all the answers. Phew! For others, this reflection is the cause of heart palpitations, rising blood pressure, and sweaty palms; in short, it is too much to consider and they prefer to cling to well-rehearsed opinions and the remnants of certain beliefs—to the illusion of certainty. It's probably more comfortable than peering into the chasm of uncertainty.