: a system of religious beliefs <the Protestant faith>
Okay. So there are a few ways we can 'view' faith from an intellectual perspective. But is it really 'intellectual'? Or is faith called faith because we can't prove it? Do we really know that God exists? How do we know this? There is no proof, per se, but still we have zillions of folks on the planet who insist there is a God. Even using a capital 'G' is sort of a given here. I mean, where did THAT come from? Is it that fear that was learned at some distant, young age when we were taught to 'fear God' or else? Or is it merely a learned respect (through that same fear) that we honor this 'entity' that is called God?
I remember some years ago, while watching Oprah, she had Maya Angelou's son on prior to Maya herself coming on the show. He spoke of his mother with the deepest reverence; it was apparent that he held her in very high regard and that his love for her was deep beyond words. One thing about his 'interview' always stuck with me. He said that of all the things he loved and admired about her, the one that was utmost was her faith. He called it 'faith like a rock'. He said that of all the things he wished to have, it was faith such as hers. I never forgot that. FAITH LIKE A ROCK.
For years since then, I've thought about this. I've pondered the meaning of faith and prayed that I'd have it 'one day'. I've imagined what it might be like to trust so deeply in something that there is never a moment's doubt. I've tried my best to let go of all those years of Catholic 'terrorism' (which is what it felt like to me when I attended Catholic school!) and asked this God to show me what it means to honor without fear, to trust wholly, to KNOW that I am in the arms of Love. Still I wonder....what does it feel like?
There have been moments in my Life when I had that knowing. That true, unwaverable knowing that I AM a child of God and that it's called 'faith' BECAUSE there is no proof. As it's been said, 'that's why they call it faith'! Is there a separate God for those who 'over-analyze'? Is there a separate kind of faith? If God gave me this brain that wants 'proof', then how can it be 'wrong'? Is my brain not a part of this God? Did he (she?) not give me these remarkable inner workings so that I could expand further? Was Thomas really Jesus' favorite????
I don't have any answers here. I do know, for long moments sometimes, that my faith in this Power is utterly secure. I find myself basking in the peace of this knowing and don't try to overthink any of it. I just allow myself to BE. This, I believe, is what faith is. It is that feeling that comes with KNOWING. It's not about thought or intellect or proof. It's about mere knowing. And there are no words for such a feeling. Maybe that's where 'faith' came from.
Camille Olivia Strate is an author and coach who takes great pleasure in helping folks 'remember' what they already 'know'. She spends much of her time with her beloved animals, maintaining that they are her greatest connection to Source. When she's not 'coaching' or writing, she can be found in the garden or on a trail, soaking in the marvels of Nature's offerings. Her latest book, "Whispers" is now available in eBook format. Hardcopy to follow soon! Visit her personal site at
http://www.joyzachoice.com
