We’re bombarded by messages every day—through news, social media, family, culture, and religion. How do we sift through all that noise to find what’s genuinely true for us? That’s a challenge Lyle Simpson tackles in “Fully Human/Fully Alive,” urging each of us to take up the lifelong work of examining beliefs and claiming what’s authentically real.
Simpson notes that much of what passes for “truth” in society is inherited, repeated, and rarely questioned. We accept stories from authority figures or our social group, often without examining the evidence or emotional cost. But to live fully awake, he argues, we must ask: Why do I believe what I believe? What is truth for me, not just what’s handed down?
The process begins with leaving behind “blind faith.” Instead of letting so-called Control Persons (be they religious leaders, politicians, or parents) tell you how things are, Simpson recommends cultivating inquiry and healthy skepticism. This is not cynicism, but a loving act of responsibility—taking charge of your own mind and conscience.
Crafting your own truth can be a little scary. It may mean disagreeing with family, friends, or even the prevailing culture. But it is the only way to become truly free, and truly yourself. Simpson encourages journaling, open debate, and exploration of diverse perspectives as pathways to greater self-understanding and clarity.
Importantly, personal truth is dynamic, not static. You grow, you learn, and your perspective changes. Don’t be afraid to revise long-held beliefs when new information (or even a new feeling) arises. That adaptability, according to Simpson, is a hallmark of the fully alive mind.
By determining your path with intention, you equip yourself to live with authenticity and integrity. Personal truth doesn’t always lead to easy answers, but it will nourish a life that feels honest, awake, and deeply fulfilling.
