Living With Ambiguity And Mystery
This past Saturday, I began a study of G. K. Chesterton. I am beginning my study by rereading Chesterton’s Orthodoxy. As an English writer, philosopher, and critic, G. K. Chesterton was known for his wit, literary style, and insightful commentary on religion, culture, and society. He is best remembered for his works such as Father Brown detective stories and Orthodoxy, where he explores Christian faith and the mysteries of life with humor and depth. Chesterton is also a featured author of the Marion E. Wade Center at Wheaton College. While G. K. Chesterton and C. S. Lewis never met, Chesterton had a huge influence on Lewis. In fact, in Surprised by Joy Lewis recalled the impact of reading The Everlasting Man by Chesterton. Lewis said of Chesterton’s essays that they “made such an immediate conquest of” him.
In Orthodoxy, Chesterton wrote, “We need so to view the world as to combine an idea of wonder and an idea of welcome. We need to be happy in this wonderland without once being merely comfortable.” With this statement he was emphasizing the importance of approaching the world with a sense of awe and appreciation, while also remaining open and receptive—what he called “welcome.” He suggested that true engagement with life isn’t about seeking comfort or complacency but about maintaining a kind of joyful wonderment. I believe this is an important leadership lesson in all we do.
Chesterton was advocating for a perspective that balances admiration and curiosity (“wonder”) with warmth and hospitality (“welcome”). This approach allows us to be genuinely happy and engaged in the mysteries and complexities of life without becoming passive or overly secure in comfort. It encourages embracing the richness of existence, appreciating its marvels, and remaining open to new experiences and truths rather than retreating into familiarity or complacency.
A great example of all this is Chesterton’s exploration of the paradoxes inherent in faith. Chesterton described how embracing paradoxes—such as Christ being both divine and human—helps us to appreciate the richness and depth of reality. Rather than simplifying complex truths into neat formulas, he encouraged us to live with ambiguity and mystery, which keeps life vibrant and meaningful. This is what I call being comfortable with being uncomfortable. I still remember as a child trying to get my head wrapped around the Holy Trinity.
The view provided by Chesterton that an open-hearted acceptance of life’s complexities enriches our experience and keeps us engaged with the world, aligns well with the idea of embracing life’s marvels without becoming passive or overly secure in comfort.
Sincerely Egotistical
The phrase “he has been forced to be egotistical only in order to be sincere” from the preface of G. K. Chesterton’s Orthodoxy suggested that Chesterton believed he must embrace certain aspects of his own personality—perhaps his individuality, strong opinions, or distinctive style—to genuinely express his beliefs and convictions.
In other words, Chesterton was implying that when someone is committed to honesty and sincerity about their worldview, they may need to highlight or even assert their own perspective strongly. This assertion might come across as egotistical, but it’s a necessary part of being truthful and authentic. So, the statement recognizes that sincerity sometimes requires one to be confidently self-assured, even if that appears egotistical on the surface.
Leaders Try Crickets
This past Wednesday night I worked with students at our annual “Dinner With A Story” during National FFA Convention, at Ulen Country Club. Chef Nick Townsend and I did this for students from Montana, Kansas, and Indiana. This is something I love doing on the Wednesday evening of convention each year. We used the FFA Convention theme of “Empower” as our throughline for the story. It was such an incredible evening as we served students a four course dinner, one of which included oven roasted crickets on salad wraps. 🦗 Yes, you heard me right – crickets. We always have something that is a little outside of the norm.
The students had some insightful reflections during the story/meal. As they said, trying new foods like crickets can contribute to feeling empowered in several meaningful ways. It encourages stepping outside of your comfort zone, which can boost confidence and foster a sense of bravery. Making a conscious choice to explore unfamiliar foods also reflects a willingness to embrace new experiences, cultivating curiosity and adaptability.
Additionally, the students recognized that sometimes not trying new foods because of preconceived notions is similar to not empowering someone due to stereotypes or biases. In both cases, assumptions prevent us from seeing the full potential—whether it’s discovering delicious, nutritious foods or recognizing someone’s capability and value. Challenging those preconceived beliefs allows for growth, open-mindedness, and the opportunity to experience positive change, whether it’s expanding your palate or fostering understanding and empowerment in others.
Trying new foods can be a metaphorical and literal act of self-empowerment by challenging perceptions, broadening horizons, and reinforcing your ability to make conscious, adventurous choices.
Leadership Outcast
The lyrics from Dorothy’s great song “Black Sheep” convey a powerful message of resilience, individuality, and unwavering self-acceptance. The first verse in “Black Sheep” goes like this: “Call me an outcast, call me a freak; Watch those bullets ricochet straight off of me; ‘Cause I belong; Where right is wrong; No lost cause like the good book say; Don’t give a damn what people think; I march alone; To a different song.” As a person who relates to being a black sheep at times, I was intrigued to dig in on the lyrics.
The song embraces the identity of an outcast or “freak,” rejecting societal judgments and criticisms symbolized by the “bullets” that bounce off them. I love that line because in my education policy life I have joked at times that it was time to put on the Kevlar jacket.
The lines “I belong where right is wrong” suggest a defiance of conventional norms and an affirmation of personal truth. By stating “No lost cause like the good book say,” they acknowledge the biblical notion that hope and redemption are always possible, reinforcing that even those perceived as outsiders can find their place and purpose.
As a Christian I did a little digging on exactly what the Bible has to say. So, the Bible doesn’t explicitly say “there is no lost cause,” but it does contain themes that suggest hope and redemption are always possible, regardless of how dire a situation may seem. Here are three of those themes:
- Luke 15:4-7 (The Parable of the Lost Sheep), in the NIV version it goes like this:
4 “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? 5 And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders 6 and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ 7 I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” Jesus emphasizes that there is joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, indicating that no one is beyond God’s mercy. - In Romans 8:38-39, Paul writes that nothing can separate us from God’s love, reinforcing the idea that hope remains even in difficult circumstances. The NIV version says,
38 “For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, 39 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” - Jeremiah 29:11 says,
11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.God declares plans to give hope and a future, reassuring believers that hope persists despite setbacks.” Here, God declares plans to give hope and a future, reassuring believers that hope persists despite setbacks.
While the phrase “no lost cause” isn’t directly in the Bible, these passages reflect a core biblical principle that redemption, hope, and restoration are always within reach for those who seek them.
This all reminded me of the great show from the 1970’s, Black Sheep Squadron. I loved that show because it was inspired by a highly effective South Pacific World War II fighter squadron led by Gregory “Pappy” Boyington, played by Robert Conrad. Boyington was an outcast and unconventional, but effective leader who, along with his squadron were known as “black sheep.” Kind of interesting how any time we don’t fit the conventional and societal norms (who gets to pick those, anyway?) we are considered a “freak” or “black sheep.”
Finally, the last line of the first verse of “Black Sheep,” “I march alone; to a different song” emphasizes independence and the courage to follow one’s unique path despite opposition. Overall, the verse celebrates strength, individuality, and the idea that standing firm in oneself aligns with a deeper sense of hope and personal sovereignty.
The Allure Of Power
I just finished The Fellowship of the Ring by J. R. R. Tolkien. This is the book we are focusing on studying as Marion E. Wade Continuing Scholars at Wheaton College this year. It has been fascinating to read this book using a scholarly lens. It has also been interesting, as a person who loves to use fiction works as a learning tool, to study this book knowing that Tolkien did not like, nor use allegory. That said, there are still so many lessons to be pulled from this book. I still have several notes and reflections that may make their way into blog posts.
Today, I want to focus on a leadership lesson in a statement by Boromir at the end of The Fellowship of the Ring: “The fearless, the ruthless, these alone will achieve victory. What could not a warrior do in this hour, a great leader? What could not Aragorn do? Or if he refuses, why not Boromir? The Ring would give me power of Command. How I would drive the hosts of Mordor, and all men would flock to my banner!” I’m specifically pondering the idea of a leader putting all his faith in the power of a ring. The ring can serve as a metaphor for other sources of power or perceived power.
Boromir’s statement highlights a common temptation for leaders: the allure of power as a means to achieve victory. His belief that the Ring could bestow unmatched command reflects both his desire to protect his people and the dangerous misconception that power alone can ensure success.
The leadership lesson here is about the importance of integrity, humility, and understanding the true source of effective leadership. Relying solely on power, even if it promises immediate results, can lead to corruption and failure in the long run. Aragorn exemplifies the opposite approach: leading through wisdom, humility, and trust in a higher purpose rather than wielding power for its own sake. Aragorn, is a member of the Fellowship of the Ring. He resists the corrupting influence of power, showing great moral strength.
Boromir’s temptation serves as a reminder to us that true leadership isn’t just about exerting control or brute force but about inspiring trust, making wise decisions, and understanding the moral dimensions of power.
Leading By Starting
“‘It’s the job that’s never started as takes longest to finish,’ as my old gaffer used to say.” The leadership lesson in this phrase from J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Fellowship of the Ring is that procrastination or hesitation often causes tasks to become more daunting and time-consuming than they need to be.
Effective leaders understand the importance of taking initiative and starting work promptly. By beginning sooner rather than later, we can manage challenges more effectively, maintain momentum, and reduce the risk of projects becoming overwhelming. This quote emphasizes that decisive action and early engagement are key to successful leadership and accomplishing goals efficiently.
Leading On The Path Toward A Clear Goal
As I was reading The Fellowship Of The Ring by J. R. R. Tolkien yesterday I was struck by this description of Gandalf by Tolkien: “To Gandalf the far-off memories of a journey long before were now of little help, but even in the gloom and despite all windings of the road he knew whither he wished to go, and he did not falter, as long as there was a path that led towards his goal.” Tolkien created a great leadership example in Gandalf. He modeled that hope is preserved through small consistent actions.
From Tolkien’s statement about Gandalf, we can learn the importance of perseverance and clarity of purpose. Despite facing darkness and complex obstacles (“gloom” and “windings of the road”), Gandalf remains steadfast because he knows his destination and the path to achieve it. This highlights that having a clear goal and unwavering resolve can help us navigate through life’s uncertainties and challenges without faltering. It reminds us to stay focused on our objectives, trust in our direction, and persist even when the journey becomes difficult.
Creating Our Own Cages
I am a huge Asking Alexandria fan and their song “Into The Fire” which was released in 2017 has always caused me to do some heavy reflection every time I hear it. After hearing it again while spending some quality time in the tractor cab recently, I even pulled out my highlighted and heavily annotated copies of C. S. Lewis’s The Great Divorce and The Problem of Pain while reflecting on the song. I’ll get to the notes I pulled in from those works in a moment. For now let’s discuss “Into the Fire” as a powerful and emotionally charged song that I believe explores themes of inner struggle, pain, and seeking redemption. That is the beauty of great art and artists like the members of Asking Alexandria; it allows us to make our own interpretations. The lyrics allow the listener a dynamic interaction between artist and listener with meaning not always fixed by the artist.
In my reflection and thoughts, the song conveys a sense of facing darkness and trying to overcome personal demons or difficult circumstances. The metaphor of going “into the fire” suggests enduring hardship or confronting intense emotions in the hope of eventual healing or growth. Sometimes we have to realize we are who we are and that we must go into the fire.
Verse 1 of “Into the Fire” says, “I’m not too sure what I’m supposed to do with this; These hands, this mind, this instability; From a cage I created to a Hell that Heaven made.” Here, the lyrics express confusion and uncertainty about how to handle our own abilities and mental state. “These hands” and “this mind” symbolize our physical actions and thoughts, respectively, suggesting we may feel overwhelmed or unprepared to control or utilize them effectively. The mention of “instability” indicates inner turmoil or emotional instability, highlighting inner conflict.
The line, “From a cage I created to a Hell that Heaven made” reflects a sense of self-imprisonment—we’ve created limitations or barriers (“a cage”) around ourselves, perhaps through fears, doubts, or negative patterns. The phrase “to a Hell that Heaven made” suggests that despite the potential for goodness or salvation (“Heaven”), the circumstances or internal struggles have transformed that potential into suffering (“Hell”). It could imply that one’s own actions or perceptions have turned a positive environment into a painful one.
This all reminded me that C. S. Lewis said, “I willingly believe that the damned are, in one sense, successful, rebels to the end; that the doors of hell are locked on the inside” in The Problem of Pain. Many times we do create our own “cages” that are mentioned in “Into the Fire.” As a Christian, I am reminded we have a choice between Heaven or Hell.
In Mere Christianity C. S. Lewis taught us that pride was the “great sin” that leads to every other vice. The characters in Lewis’s The Great Divorce were reluctant to let go of their sins and attachments, showcasing how pride, resentment, and selfishness can prevent one from achieving redemption. This could be true of the character represented in “Into the Fire.”
My big takeaway from pondering all of this is the reminder of what C. S. Lewis told us in the preface to The Great Divorce: “I think earth, if chosen instead of Heaven, will turn out to have been, all along, only a region in Hell: and earth, if put second to Heaven, to have been from the beginning a part of Heaven itself.” God lets us choose!
You Cannot Trust Us To Let You Face Trouble Alone
I loved this from Frodo’s friends as he was preparing for a difficult and dangerous journey in J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Fellowship of the Ring: “‘You can trust us to stick to you through thick and thin – to the bitter end. And you can trust us to keep any secret of yours – closer than you keep it yourself. But you cannot trust us to let you face trouble alone, and go off without a word. We are your friends, Frodo. Anyway: there it is.” This declaration of friendship from Frodo’s fellow Hobbits underscores that real friendship involves loyalty, trust, confidentiality, and a willingness to face hardships together—lessons that are valuable in our everyday relationships.
Frodo’s friends were highlighting key qualities of true friendship. It reminds us that genuine friends are loyal and dependable—they stand by you “through thick and thin,” offering unwavering support and trust. They also respect our privacy, being trusted to keep secrets confidential. Importantly, true friends don’t abandon us in difficult times; instead, they face challenges together with us, ensuring we’re never alone in trouble. Are you being a true friend?
Advice Is A Dangerous Gift
As I continue reading J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Fellowship of the Ring I keep reminding myself that Tolkien did not use nor like allegory. However, I still can’t help myself from being intrigued by scenes in the book and wanting to connect them to some lesson. One such scene was the conversation between Frodo and Gildor. Here is what they said: “‘And it is also said,’ answered Frodo: ‘Go not to the Elves for counsel, for they will say both no and yes.’ ‘Is it indeed?’ laughed Gildor. ‘Elves seldom give unguarded advice, for advice is a dangerous gift, even from the wise to the wise, and all courses may run ill. But what would you? You have not told me all concerning yourself; and how then shall I choose better than you? But if you demand advice, I will for friendship’s sake give it. I think you should now go at once, without delay;…” (p. 84). Frodo’s and Gildor’s words highlight the cautious nature of the Elves when giving advice, emphasizing how even the wise can be guarded.
The elves are wise and experienced, but also careful about sharing their knowledge and advice, knowing that words can have unintended consequences or that their insights might be misunderstood or misused. The quote recognizes importance of discretion: Sometimes, it’s better to be cautious about what we share, especially when the information could be sensitive or misunderstood.
There is wisdom in silence. Silence or restraint can be powerful, allowing us to observe and understand before speaking. We need to Recognizing that different people may interpret advice differently, and that sometimes holding back is a sign of wisdom.
Byron's Babbles 
leave a comment