In her poignant assertion, "Your knowing is older than your fear," Glennon Doyle invites us to recognize the profound depth of our innate wisdom, which often lies obscured beneath layers of anxiety and trepidation. This statement serves as a reminder that our true understanding and intuition predate the fears that can so easily overwhelm us. By acknowledging this, we can begin to navigate our lives with a sense of clarity and purpose, rather than being paralyzed by the uncertainties that fear brings. The stakes are high; in a world rife with challenges, reconnecting with our deeper knowing can be the key to living authentically and courageously.
Delving deeper into this idea, we find that the essence of our knowing is not merely a cognitive understanding but a profound, almost primal awareness that resides within us. This knowing is shaped by our experiences, our truths, and the wisdom passed down through generations. Fear, on the other hand, is often a construct of the mind, a reaction to perceived threats that can distort our perception of reality. By recognizing that our knowing is older and more foundational than our fears, we can cultivate a sense of empowerment, allowing us to rise above the noise of anxiety and embrace the clarity that comes from within.
The image / the metaphor
The imagery in Doyle's quote evokes a sense of timelessness and depth. The phrase "older than" suggests a lineage, a wisdom that has been present long before our fears took shape. It conjures the image of a deep well of knowledge, one that has been nurtured over time, waiting patiently for us to draw from it. The verbs "knowing" and "fear" are particularly striking; knowing implies a sense of certainty and understanding, while fear denotes a state of apprehension and uncertainty. This juxtaposition highlights the contrast between our inherent wisdom and the often transient nature of our fears.
In the speaker's tradition
Glennon Doyle's insights resonate deeply within the modern-spirituality tradition, which emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and inner wisdom. Concepts such as dharma, or one's true path, and prajna, or wisdom, align closely with her assertion. In this context, knowing can be seen as an expression of our dharma, guiding us toward our authentic selves, while fear often distracts us from this path. The journey of self-discovery is one of peeling back the layers of fear to reveal the wisdom that has always been present within us.
In her book "Untamed," Doyle draws on personal experiences and societal observations to illustrate the struggle between fear and knowing. This mirrors the teachings found in various spiritual texts, such as the Tao Te Ching, which speaks to the importance of aligning with our true nature. Just as the Tao encourages us to flow with the natural order of things, Doyle's message invites us to trust in our inner knowing, allowing it to guide us through the complexities of life. The interplay between fear and knowing becomes a central theme in our quest for authenticity and fulfillment.
Living the teaching
Consider a modern scenario where this teaching might resonate: a person facing a significant career change. The fear of the unknown looms large, creating a sense of paralysis that prevents them from taking the leap. Yet, if they pause to connect with their deeper knowing—the skills they possess, the passions that drive them—they may find the courage to embrace the change. This moment of clarity can serve as a powerful reminder that their innate wisdom has the potential to guide them through uncertainty, transforming fear into an opportunity for growth.
In relationships, this teaching can manifest in moments of conflict or misunderstanding. When fear arises—fear of rejection, fear of vulnerability—individuals may retreat or react defensively. However, by tapping into their deeper knowing, they can approach the situation with empathy and openness. This shift allows for authentic communication and connection, fostering deeper bonds and understanding. In both personal and professional realms, the practice of returning to our knowing can illuminate paths obscured by fear, enabling us to live more fully and authentically.
A reflection
As we contemplate the wisdom of Glennon Doyle's words, we are invited to ask ourselves: What fears are currently clouding my judgment, and how might I reconnect with my deeper knowing to navigate these challenges? This question encourages introspection and invites us to explore the layers of our own experiences, seeking the wisdom that lies beneath the surface. By engaging with this inquiry, we can begin to cultivate a more profound understanding of ourselves and our place in the world, allowing our knowing to guide us toward a more authentic existence.
