Scattering Our Interfering Thoughts

In 1880 George MacDonald self-published an incredible book of daily reflective poems, Diary of an Old Soul. I am reading this book one daily entry at a time this year. In his April 10th entry in the book he said, “Might I but scatter interfering things—Questions and doubts, distrusts and anxious pride.” MacDonald was referring to removing “mental clutter” before that was actually the thing we now have a term for. He was offering a profound reflection on the barriers that can hinder our personal growth and spiritual development.

From this quote, we can learn that:

Self-Reflection is Key: The “interfering things” such as doubts, questions, distrusts, and anxious pride often cloud our understanding and hinder our progress. Recognizing these internal obstacles is the first step toward overcoming them.
Letting Go of Overanalyzing and Worry: MacDonald seemed to be suggesting that excessive questioning or doubting can become barriers rather than pathways to truth. Sometimes, by calming these mental and emotional disturbances, we create space for clarity and peace.
Humility and Trust: “Anxious pride” indicates a kind of overconfidence or stubbornness that can prevent us from learning or accepting new truths. Cultivating humility opens us up to growth and understanding.
Inner Peace Enhances Growth: Scattering these interfering thoughts signifies clearing the mind and heart of unnecessary hindrances that keep us from discovering deeper truths or connecting with something greater.

Now, here is the entire April 10 entry in the Diary of an Old Soul: “Might I but scatter interfering things—Questions and doubts, distrusts and anxious pride, And in thy garment, as under gathering wings, Nestle obedient to thy living side, Easy it were to love thee. But when thou Send’st me to think and labor from thee wide, Love falls to asking many a why and how.”In its entirety, I believe the poem encourages us, through MacDonald’s own encouragement to himself, to free ourselves from the mental clutter of doubts, pride, and distrust, enabling us to grow spiritually and personally. He underscored the importance of inner calm and humility in the journey toward wisdom and self-discovery.

Byron's Babbles