Searching for Wise Questions Again
Almost a decade ago, in the aftermath of September 11, 2001, I was haunted by unanswerable questions. At that time, I was reminded of an exchange in Elie Wiesel’s Night, his memoir about the Holocaust. Young Elie’s spiritual master, Moche, tells him that every question possesses a power that does not lie in its answer.
"Man raises himself toward God by the questions he asks Him," Moche explains. He adds that he cannot understand God’s answers. When Wiesel asks him why, then, he prays, Moche replies: "I pray to the God within me that He will give me the strength to ask Him the right questions."
Why would it be wise to pray for this kind of strength? Why are “right” questions so powerful?
My experience conducting dialogues among those who have fierce differences about issues such as abortion and homosexuality has made me acutely aware that questions have unsung constructive power.
They focus our attention and strengthen our capacity for self-reflection. They also can open a door or turn on a light. They can remind us of what we once knew or what we most value. They can build a bridge or identify an unmet need. They can help us imagine a hoped for future and discern a path to realizing it.
I am once again a haunted person in search of questions that enlighten and empower. What, I have been wondering, are the “right” questions for these post-Tucson-massacre days and by what “fruits” would I know them?
Today I am on the lookout for questions that have one or both of these effects:
- Empower ALL OF US to transform those habits of our hearts, minds and tongues that resemble the polarizing attitudes and comments that we deplore in the media and our political leaders.
- Catalyze direct, respectful and enlightening conversations among citizens who have passionately different political loyalties.
This is as close as I have come to framing a question likely to serve both of these ends.
In your heart of hearts, what future do you foresee for this country if the polarizing viciousness in our political life continues or increases?
(This is a genuine question. I really want to know what you envision when you project the patterns and dynamics of our public life into our collective future.)
I cannot imagine any scenario that does not frighten me and make me grieve for what my grandchildren are likely to face when they come of age. Because I cannot, my vision insists that I ask: what can each of us do to turn the tide? Though unanswered, this question has given me focus, resolve—and hope.
However black or rosy or multi-colored your vision, what question does it invite you to live with in the days ahead?
I may have other questions tomorrow. What are yours today?