It seems that ‘everything’ has layers. This is neither ‘good’ or ‘bad’ it is a given. Example: in school first you learn 2+2=4, and as foundation then you graduate to multiplication and division, and then on to algebra and trig, etc. You can catch my point – that everything really is a building block for the next stage, the next phase of growth. And, I tend to believe that it is sequential. The math example: you certainly wouldn’t be expecting someone in the 3rd grade to be able to understand differential calculus because the foundation hasn’t been built yet.
There is a scripture in Isaiah (28) that speaks to this. Beginning in verse 9: “Whom will he teach knowledge? And whom will he make to understand…For precept must be upon precept…Line upon line.” Personally I’ve always been intrigued with those verses but I also recognize their relevance and applicability. It’s how we learn. It’s how we apply what we learn. As one level, layer or plateau is understood, we test it out and as it stands the test we begin to rely on it. We use the level as a basis to grow and build upon. But everything begins with the foundation… which must be firm and understood.
From that basis I formed my own belief that we never stop learning – we can stop ourselves from growing and we can attempt to ignore our new learnings and discoveries but that is counter productive. As we apply precept upon precept and line upon line we build our own frame of reference, our philosophical foundation. We too are layered. The problem can be when we begin to believe that the layers no longer seem relevant. Before eliminating them, we really should determine if they still have value and in what context. We all tend to throw the baby out with the bathwater… and then too often we eventually retrace our steps.
Layers, plateaus, line upon line are all meant for us to experience a consistent and congruous growth. The fact that these exist tells us that we have time to absorb the learnings and apply them – to ‘know’ them without rushing. It really is important to focus on what’s being taught in our now that we can build on and use. My advice has always been to enjoy what you are learning now, regardless of the difficulty, because it is part of your structure. What you choose to build, those learnings you retain and those you choose to disavow are your decision. Do choose wisely.
