Looking Beyond The Surface
Life has a way of teaching us profound lessons through the simplest and most unexpected experiences. For me, one of those lessons came in January 2014, when I found myself in a dental chair, facing the dreaded prospect of a root canal. What started as a routine procedure turned into three grueling visits, hours of discomfort, and ultimately, a decision to pull the tooth after all.
At the time, I couldn’t understand why the dentist insisted on saving the tooth. I was exhausted from the pain and trauma, and their reasoning didn’t seem worth the effort. When they finally removed the tooth, they discovered the real problem: a deep cavity that had gone unnoticed, burrowing into the bone and causing my relentless pain.
Looking back, I realize this ordeal was more than just a physical experience—it was a mirror reflecting a deeper truth about life.
The Surface vs. The Source
In life, we often focus on symptoms, those visible signs of discomfort, pain, or dysfunction. Whether it’s in relationships, careers, or our personal growth, we tend to address what’s immediately apparent—an argument, a setback, or a moment of insecurity—without pausing to dig deeper.
But symptoms are just the surface. Beneath them lies the root cause, the hidden cavity eating away at our peace and progress. Often, this root is something we’ve ignored, overlooked, or avoided because confronting it feels too overwhelming.
The Courage to Confront
Why do we avoid looking beyond the surface? Sometimes, it’s fear. Fear of what we’ll uncover if we dig deeper. Fear of confronting truths about ourselves—our insecurities, past traumas, or unmet needs. It’s easier to blame external circumstances or others than to acknowledge that the source of our pain might be within us.
But here’s the truth: we can never conquer what we refuse to confront. Healing and growth require courage—the courage to face the uncomfortable, to address the root cause, and to allow ourselves to grow through the process.
A Path to Freedom
When my tooth was finally removed, the relief was immediate. The source of my pain was gone, and I could begin to heal. In the same way, when we address the deeper issues in our lives, we open the door to freedom and victory.
This process isn’t easy. It takes time, self-reflection, and sometimes the guidance of trusted friends, mentors, or professionals. But the reward is worth it: a life free from the recurring pain of unresolved issues and a deeper understanding of ourselves.
Moving Forward
As we journey through life, let’s commit to looking beyond the surface. Let’s refuse to settle for temporary fixes or superficial solutions. Instead, let’s have the courage to confront the root causes of our struggles and embrace the growth that comes with healing.
Because when we deal with the real source, we’re not just fixing what’s broken—we’re building a foundation for lasting freedom, joy, and victory.
What areas in your life might need a deeper look? Take a moment to reflect and be brave enough to start the process. Freedom awaits on the other side.
