I watch others expressing their doubts. In multiple forums, television, op-ed articles, public discourse, unresolved doubt can evolve into fear and cynicism. Yet the conundrum for many, myself included, is how to resolve doubt. It seems that the process of choice is often to deny or suppress the reality of doubts. Individuals are not allowed to have doubts, or at least express them. If doubts are expressed, they are resolved expeditiously. It does not matter if the resolution is superficial. One need not worry about the view of the person who expressed the thoughts. What is critical is that the status quo is maintained and the core continues as it was.
If I sound cynical, it is not my intent. It is likely the lingering impact of unresolved doubt in the lives of those around me on top of my personal doubts. Life reminds me that doubts need to be addressed. The Spirit whispers that the journey will require elements often in short supply.
Trust is required from everyone involved. Some must trust that the intent in honorable. The fact that someone, even one in a position of trust and authority, has doubts does not mean that the person does not believe. Equally, the doubter needs to trust the intent and actions of the person working with them to process the doubts.
Transparency is essential, from beginning to the end. This begins with includes the source of the doubts through the examination process, analysis and conclusions that follow.
Resolution will require a willingness to walk together, even if one disagrees. It is easy to work together when there is uniform agreement. Working through doubts is hard, especially when trust is emerging and transparency is still an aspiration.
I have seen the upside of a community working through concerns, questions, and doubts. When each is addressed, the seeds of anger and frustration change. “Instead of smoldering rage – God-praise! All that sputtering rage – now a garland for God!” (Psalm 76.10) As ellusive as the goal is, working honestly with doubts has the potential for great rewards.
