Soul

Soul

By April McQueen

Soul. It binds and releases us. It distinguishes us. It is light and deep, unique by definition. A complex combination of experiences and emotion, our soul is precious. It is with us always: in the give and take of everyday life; in that mysterious quality where we alternate between being extraordinary failures and surprise success stories. After that “one more try” or request for yet another “second chance,” at that moment we are broken, but also vulnerable, honest, and true. We are the nexus of all that we are, have been, or could become. Although it lies within each of us, our soul can become a neglected muscle that would benefit from equal parts spiritual exercise and tender, loving care.

How many prayers have formed it?  How many times have we tried to silence it by secular reinvention for the umpteenth time?

We are insane to expect a different and positive result in this dance, forever strong in its repetition, with a collapsing security in each step. The white flag surrender of war-torn wisdom from a soul-battle is a historical lesson. Few are willing to learn it to their detriment. It is  easier to lift the mirror than to look in the looking glass for reconciliation of who we think we are and who we really are.  Once we clear away the artifice and strip away the mask we show others, the real work begins.

Look. It is not for vanity, but for accountability. Dare we stand without a believer’s reverent fear of the Holy? However, no matter how many times The Bible tells us to “Be not afraid,” we are. If it ever got out that peace dwells there, in our soul, that might cause an eviction. As it is now, courage informs a quiet revolution to stand ready to get right.