What and where exactly are we?

Since jumping in head-first to the Social network, I have gained a great deal through reading the thoughts of other Quakers. Since these Friends have gone to some trouble sharing their insights, it would seem appropriate for me to begin this entry by thanking them. All ministry is I believe given to us for a reason.

Some of the comments I read concern me since they would suggest insecurity among some Quakers, making them unhappy. At times this feeling is reflected in very strongly expressed opinions. Whether this be towards Quakers, or others within the wider community, an intolerant approach inevitably creates barriers. Since Quakers believe that there is that of God in everyone, this form of expression would seem more of a panic reaction. The world is not always a thoughtful, kind and loving place, so at times, quite understandably, even Quakers are afraid.

Where trust would seem to be an issue, it is usually necessary for organisations to look at both their defenses and their foundations.

The first part of this process is not at all encouraging because from the onset we always have been a totally defenceless people. Through reading about the fatalities, inability to fight back and intense unpopularity of Early Quakers, it would seem quite remarkable that we did not all die out during those early years.

The foundations for Quakerism are however quite reassuring for those of us who have ever felt intimidated by the language, culture and priorities of seventeenth century England. They are not, I believe its history. Instead it would seem that any stable organisation needs to be triangular with its widest point at the base. Our continued commitment to be inclusive, welcoming and loving provides Quakerism with a strong stable foundation, grounded very firmly on this earth.

At times there would seem a temptation for Quakers to focus merely upon the base layer believing themselves to be an entirely a social group. Instead, as with any triangular shape, there should be a natural progression upwards. This process will involve some kind of spiritual journey. Our tolerance, diversity, and absence of creeds it will enable us to remain "open to new light, from whatever source it may come?" Traditionally those brave, honest Quakers at the start of a spiritual journey are defined as being "Seekers after Truth."

It can be very easy to feel an outsider among Quakers, even perhaps at a somewhat lower level to the rest. At times it is also possible to get lost and there will be times of poor visibility in Meeting. To reassure those who feel on the peripherals, it would seem of relevance to note how Early Quakers were particularly inspired (at times down-right lyrical!) by the presence of honest enquirers who were ready and receptive to their teaching.

A Quaker life involves progression. We learn through experience. I do not believe we should be too proscriptive about the travel aids each chooses to adopt, other than through the offer to share those we have found useful.

At times there may be a tendency to focus on unnecessary items for that journey. It would seem to me the search for God has very little to do with having a good imagination, intellectual superiority of being able to express yourself in a particular way. Through being humble, we might also dispense with reason. By putting our own egos on a back burner, we travel light and so there is a greater incentive to listen out for God. Having silent Meetings would seem a pretty pointless exercise were it not for this opportunity of guidance. This mountain to climb may require the support of Friends. It has many paths although, if everyone heads for the summit, we will all get to the same place given time.

No one could possibly expect to see God although at some point on this journey, a Quaker may reach a stage of "being convinced."  This very seventeenth century phrase refers to having had an awareness of God's presence.
Although there are a great many ways in which this can happen, it is always individual, tends to involve clarity, wonder, transformation and a continued sense of guidance. There is no doubt of its power, relevance and permanence to the human condition.

To me Quakerism has very little to do with appearance, sharing a particular way of life or our ability to campaign. We are vertebrates by nature and that the search for truth continues to provide us with a backbone.
In recent years we may have become a little quiet, even quite confused about our identity, but there is still is a need for unconditional love for the whole of humanity, the opportunity to be a Seeker after Truth, a shared spiritual journey, and that unchangeable focus for all of our lives at the top of the Mountain.