Words of Wisdom, Email Newsletter
Plant seeds of wisdom today
Take the next 23 or so breaths slowly and reflect deeply on your life. I hope these words help you grow in you the most valuable treasure in life: wisdom. Wisdom grows imperceptibly but flourishes like a mighty oak, standing the test of time.
WoW 137: On the flywheel of disconnection
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Connection is at the core of human flourishing. When we are deeply connected to God, ourselves, and others, we thrive and grow in profound ways. However, the true power and importance of connection is often underestimated or overlooked.
Growth through connection is not a straightforward, linear process. It's a complex interplay of factors that influence and build upon each other over time. In the early stages, it can be incredibly difficult to see how all the pieces fit together. This is especially true when we are trapped in a state of disconnection, where the negative effects compound and obscure our vision of a better future.
Disconnection breeds more disconnection in a self-perpetuating and compounding cycle. The more isolated and out of sync we become with God, our authentic selves, and healthy relationships, the harder it is to break free. We get caught in distorted thinking, fear, and resentment which leads us to try to selfishly control our own lives.
This leads to isolation, which includes dishonesty with ourselves and others. Sin and chaos then grow in your life which of course grows your distorted thinking, fear, and resentment. The more you sin, the more shame you feel, the more you avoid God, and lie to yourself and others about your selfish behavior. This essentially guarantees the cycle will continue and things will get worse in time, not better.
But there is hope. We can begin to unravel the insidious influence of disconnection by understanding its dynamics.Awareness is the first step towards embracing the healing power of connection. A new pattern emerges as we turn towards God, pursue self-honesty, and engage authentically with others - a flywheel of connection, restoration and growth. Though it always starts small, each turn of the wheel builds momentum, transforming our lives from the inside out.
The path of connection is not always easy, but it is immensely worthwhile. As we commit to the process, we tap into richer relationships, greater purpose, and a life aligned with God's design. Slowly but surely, everything starts to piece together in a coherent whole, revealing the masterful way growth through connection unfolds.
Quotes
"The greatest disease in the West today is not TB or leprosy; it is being unwanted, unloved, and uncared for. We can cure physical diseases with medicine, but the only cure for loneliness, despair, and hopelessness is love."
Attributed to Mother Teresa
"Sin demands to have a man by himself. It withdraws him from the community. The more isolated a person is, the more destructive will be the power of sin over him."
Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Life Together
Questions
In what areas of my life do I feel most disconnected from God, myself, or others? What are the root causes of this disconnection?
Which relationships in my life need attention and nurturing? How can I engage more authentically and vulnerably, even when it feels uncomfortable?
(Use these questions as journal prompts and to guide your prayers this week)
Endnote
Disconnection is a deadly disease. Fight against it with all your might.
Live wisely,
Josh
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