Beliefs and Transformation
by Tim Brunson, PhD
Living in the southern United States frequently I am asked by compassionate neighbors to which church I "belong" and what is my political persuasion. Despite their being driven by a strong sense of community, a factor that makes living here so enjoyable, over the years I have become increasingly uncomfortable answering them. By doing so, I feel that I have been summarily boxed into a one-dimensional identification. Frankly, I would like to believe that I am just a tad more complex.
Over the years I have come to examine my beliefs, especially those that seem to refer to concepts and ideas that are clearly beyond my control. For instance, although as a pilot many times I found opportunities to appreciate the existence of God and the effects of gravity, spending time arguing about either is simply a waste of time that prevents me pursuing more relevant opportunities. Let's face it. My strongly held opinions in these matters will never change the truth. Therefore, I would like to spend my time pursuing more relevant activities such as working for the benefit of others or striving for my own self-actualization.
