Unlearning Isolation

Becoming Active Participants Instead of Lonely Observers, Part 1

For the next few posts, were’ returning to my work in progress, “The Art of Unlearning.” The chapter we’re running here will be broken up into four segments, all focusing on how we must unlearn the natural urge to isolate ourselves, and learn the biblical priority of deeply and honestly relating to others.

In the Broadway performance based on his life and music, Bruce Springsteen walks the audience through a dysfunctional childhood with a cold, often menacing father who likely struggled with some degree of mental illness. In such a home, a child often assumes the role of survivor rather than thriver (what we’ve been calling the abundant life). But it’s the language Springsteen uses that intrigues me. He talks about being an “observer” rather than a “participant.”

The best life, the life God wants us to live, is a life of deep and rich relationship—with him first flowing into grace-filled, honest, mutually encouraging relationships with others. It’s not easy to live this life. At times, it feels impossibly hard and seeking it may at times break our heart with disappointment and even betrayal. Even so, until we are participants instead of observers, we will feel like we are stuck in a vicious eddy.