So what is this thing we call "doubt"?

Doubt, as you may have guessed I would say given the last two posts, is the result of unresolved feelings about our imperfections. In the same way our rejection of our imperfections is completely dysfunctional and can lead us to desperate solutions (i.e sins) that distance us from God, others, and our true selves (i.e. the result of our sin), the continuation of the unresolved feelings leads us to replay those feelings in our minds without resolution. This is guilt.

If our sins hurt other people, this guilt intensifies. It's often intermingled with a sense of responsibility and/or justice which can lead people to confuse the two. Letting go of our negative associations with imperfection is different than letting go of responsibility. One can be done without the other. Since we are more familiar with a clear definition of responsibility, we sometimes let go of that thinking it will solve the guilt and fix the underlying association with our distrust of things imperfect. The truth is the exact opposite.

Realizing that God will forgive your sins and then making amends for how those sins hurt everyone (including yourself) is the first step. After that, the more nebulous, complex, difficult, and rewarding step is to embrace your imperfections and love yourself. This allows you to love others and God more fully as well. You take responsibility for your sins and also take the steps necessary to resolve your guilt.

So what's the most important commandment? Say it with me...

I'm rambling again, aren't I? Help me out here!