Little kids are fantastic with the “why” question. There are no rules when the question can be asked. There are no limits to how many times one can follow-up an answer with an another “why” question in the quest to dig deeper. It is as if the child knows that until s/he understands that they do not understand and hence the rationale for another “why”! Sometimes adults fall into the same loop.
“Should I use this for my motorcycle.”
“I do not think that is a good idea. They will scratch the paint. I suggest soft cotton.”
“Why do you need these then?”
“Because they are good for cleaning other things.”
“Why?”
“In other situations, cleaning grease or oil needs an absorbent cloth but it does not need to be smooth. In fact, a bit tougher often works better.”
“Why?”
“Are you interested in the answer or do you just need to question why I have them?”
The questioning stopped, at least for a time. I doubt this is the final conversation on the subject. I found myself wondering how often I play the questioning role. In the context of knowing the answer when it comes to using different kinds of cloth to clean bikes, I am sympathetic to the challenge to those in the know when it comes to my ability to understand and trust.
The challenge is more than just those around me. In old stories and new, the need for the instructor to give experiential confidence to what they are sharing plays out. One writer records the rationale for a gift was “so they could do everything he told them – could follow his instructions to the letter. Hallelujah!” (Psalm 105.45) Although generations have passed, I am far more similar to my ancestors than I am willing to admit.
To anyone willing to ask “why”, I offer my congratulations. You are taking the first step towards understanding, trust, and growth. Keep asking. Even when you think you understand, ask some more! Ask, listen deeply, and wonder. Each question is a window to more.
