Looking for answers?

A strong and heavy wind was rending the mountains and crushing rocks before the LORD— but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake — but the LORD was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake there was fire— but the LORD was not in the fire. After the fire there was a tiny whispering sound. When he heard this, Elijah hid his face in his cloak and went and stood at the entrance of the cave. 1 Kings 19:11-13

I set out on a run before sunrise at the same time my head was preoccupied with a number of life events. While I pray and meditate for wisdom and guidance often, I was at a point in my life in which I needed more than wisdom. I needed answers.

The sun broke over the horizon towards the end of my run and I noticed clouds in the area began to glow to a brilliance that stood in sharp contrast to the surrounding desert. I had never seen such brilliant colors emanate from a cloud that close to me. I paused to take a picture, which is attached to this post. As I took the picture, I became conscious of the moment and expected to hear a voice with the answers I was seeking. I stood there for what seemed an eternity but there was no voice and no answer.

I returned to my worries as I walked home, but this time with a certain clarity I didn’t have before. I understood the situation better. I thought of additional perspectives that helped me get a better handle on the path ahead. I identified and accepted things out of my control at peace. I acknowledged where I was being stubborn and inappropriately righteous. I smiled as I got home, and was reminded of the Bible passage above.

—> Think of the most consequential questions facing you. How are you going about getting answers? Are you truly seeking answers or are you, like is human nature, seeking validation? Be honest with yourself. Take time to write down the biggest questions facing you. Step through the situation methodically, multiple times, from opposing angles, constantly reminding yourself that you seek a path and not validation. Pray for guidance and wisdom, or if you are not a person of faith, meditate deeply for peace and balance. The soft whispers will come when we are looking for them deep within.