2,500 YEARS ago young Indian prince and Buddha-to-be Siddhartha Gautama, decided to explore beyond the palace gates, where he saw an old man, a sick man and a human corpse.
Protected in the palace, he hadn’t witnessed such horrors and was devastated that these sufferings would befall him too.
Then he saw a holy man, seeking the meaning of life, and was greatly comforted and inspired.
Trust in life is essential.
Modern society thrives on cynicism despite research indicating it damages health.
Without trust in life it’s hard to accept the reality of loss, and we’re likely to focus on achievement.
And when loss does occur – as it will – life has no fundamental meaning to steady us.
Jesus told the story of a man who built his house on sand.
He and it were washed away in a storm, whereas the man who built his house on rock was safe, and survived.
My faith is in the Christian God – for me the rock of reality, assuring me of life’s meaningfulness.
Faith is trust – the opposite of fear.
It brings confidence, creativity, love and freedom.
Indeed, research shows that people of faith have better emotional and psychological health, and can live seven to10 years longer than those without it.
Anthony Hare is a member of Wokingham Quakers, which meets at Denton Road, on Sundays at 10.30am.
For information, visit: midthamesquakers.org.uk
