Who Are You? A Thoughtful Short Story

This article explores the essence of self-identity and its profound connection to spirituality and the world around us. As we journeyed toward 2020, I found myself contemplating a pivotal question: “Who are you?” This introspection was driven by a desire to deepen my understanding of myself, which I believed was intrinsically linked to my comprehension of the divine. It is my conviction that by gaining insight into the nature of God, one can, in turn, achieve greater self-awareness. This post aims to serve as a catalyst for your own self-discovery.

The quest for self-knowledge is a path to broader wisdom. By understanding ourselves, we open the door to understanding others and the wider universe, paving the way for a life filled with meaning, tranquility, and fulfillment.

However, the emergence of the coronavirus pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, has cast a shadow over the world. This global crisis has claimed the lives of countless individuals and led to widespread lockdowns and travel restrictions.

Amidst these tumultuous times, the question persists: “But, who are you?”

The narrative that follows is a reflective tale intended to provoke thought about your role in life. I invite you to delve deeper into this exploration by accessing “Your Self-Discovery Guide” available for download at www.johnshalom.com.

Continue reading for a glimpse into a personal account:

For as long as I can remember, punctuality has been my guiding principle. I have always favored arriving early rather than late, a preference that seems at odds with the habits of many in my community.

Despite the tendency of others to arrive late or not at all, the church service commenced after a customary period of waiting. The conductor, standing at a modestly adorned pulpit, signaled the start of the Sunday service to those who had made the effort to arrive on time, whether by foot or by paying the rising costs of transportation.

The service began at 9:10 a.m., a mere ten minutes behind schedule, marking the earliest start in the church’s history.

The conductor diligently adhered to a program reminiscent of Presbyterian traditions, a common origin for many South Sudanese churches.

When the time came for the sermon, the preacher greeted the congregation and unexpectedly steered the discourse toward the realm of government politics, a trend that has become commonplace among preachers, regardless of their training.

A new acquaintance seated beside me offered insight into this phenomenon, explaining that political commentary has become an expected element of sermons, particularly in a congregation where many are government officials or politically informed.

Despite the preacher’s focus on politics, a sentiment shared by the majority, a few of us felt a dissonance between the spiritual teachings expected in church and the political narratives presented.

The church, for some, has become a platform for both spiritual guidance and community updates, including political discourse. Understanding oneself is crucial in any context, and the church is no exception.

Observing the societal landscape, it became evident that political and tribal divisions run deep, infiltrating every aspect of communal life, from religious gatherings to family conversations.

Amidst this division, neutral individuals—those who choose not to align with any side—are often caught in the crossfire, labeled as traitors or dismissed as irrational.

The prevailing belief is that neutrality is not an option; one must choose a side.

As I journeyed home, the city braced for unrest following a contentious government decision to alter the number of states. Yet, for some of us, the focus remains not on political boundaries but on fostering peace and coexistence within our ancestral lands.

The debate rages on, with some willing to fight for their perceived tribal territories, while others threaten resignation over changes to state configurations.

Amidst these tensions, I witnessed military movements, a potential harbinger of conflict, prompting questions about the future of our nation.

In this climate of uncertainty, my message is clear: I yearn for preachers to embody their spiritual calling, for politicians to engage in politics within educational settings, for teachers to impart knowledge in their areas of expertise, for students to immerse themselves in their chosen fields, and for journalists to report objectively.

Peace and harmony begin with a commitment to one’s vocation, for not all are destined for political life.

I am a writer, an independent author, not a politician.

Now, I pose the question to you: Who are you?