“There’s nothing that can help you understand your beliefs more than trying to explain them to an inquisitive child.” ~ Frank A Clark
One of my greatest daily pleasures is driving my eldest son to school. Like every five year old he is full of questions, some mundane, but others spring quite obviously from his desire to understand the world, himself and life. Answering him can be challenging, not because I am unclear about my beliefs, but due to the need to find points of connection in his young, yet inquisitive mind.
How clearly can you articulate your beliefs? Do you understand your beliefs? I’ve spent the last year sharing my beliefs day after day on this blog and it has been quite a daunting, yet fulfilling process. Beliefs are more fundamental than opinions. Opinions are fleeting, not necessarily tied to your fundamental beliefs and a dime a dozen. Beliefs, on the other hand, are born of your underlying orientation.
Goethe once said that “Man is made by his belief. As he believes, so is he.” It is worth taking time to consider your beliefs. Conflicting beliefs lead to tension and ineffectiveness. Poorly understood beliefs result in reactions, behaviors and modi operandi that take their owners by surprise. A well understood, orderly and coherent belief system results in an uncommon life, provided that the pattern of belief is consistent with the truth.
Gregory Hake 
Great post, Gregg! Thought provoking for sure.
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Great post! Thanks.
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Gregg, over this past year I have found a tremendous freedom contained in the re-ordering of my foundational belief system, somewhat of a watershed experience. Your provision here has provided the setting of an amazing foundation, from which many blessings will come I’m sure. Thanks for your consistent diligence in ensuring that the word be delivered!
Your insights have changed my world for the better, I can only hope to provide the same for others as a result of this inspiration!
Thanks again!
Josh.
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So precious and so true!
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As a teacher I recognize the influence I have on young people’s lives, and no matter what differences there may be in cultures or religions, for example, there still remain universal principles from which I know I can soundly teach and lead. I appreciate this post as a reminder in some ways and a catalyst in other ways. Regardless I am really going to take the opportunity to sharpen my understanding. Thank you!
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I agree that especially with children it is important to have a well understood belief system as the foundation from which you support their developmental growth. Kids absorb opinions very easily, in which case they may quickly absorb a distorted view or concept from a parent. Whether well meaning or thoughtless or reactionary, etc. a child’s foundation will be built on the belief system of the parents so it most certainly is worth taking a closer look at.
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I find that when considering my beliefs, it pays to see if my actions have been consistent to what my beliefs are. If not, either I don’t actually believe my beliefs, or (more likely) there are other, hidden beliefs that I may need to clear out. Usually those hidden beliefs are the less noble ones, that might not be so easy to look at. Also, there could be assumptions that help create a paradigm that acts as a barrier between belief and action. There are so many facets to this post today. Thanks for your thoughts.
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I think we might be surprised as to what we really believe in. This is so important to have a realistic understanding of. What we believe in comes out of our mouths when we’re just being ourselves. Listening to what is being said can be a shocker!
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Really great subject for personal meditation!
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I only recently started following your blog and wanted to convey that I appreciate your thoughtful posts. Thanks!
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Thank you Gregg!
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