by Kim Patty

Created on: October 24, 2009   Last Updated: October 27, 2009

In this life, uncertainty is the only thing that we can count on. It is uncertainty that keeps us from going mad in the face of a dilemma. Uncertainty then becomes hope. It also allows us to smile in anticipation for what might come. Uncertainty can turn a deaf ear to thoughts of anything less than our hopeful desires. Uncertainty again becomes hope.

Without uncertainty, the world becomes black and white and dull. Everything would be determined. Variables would make little difference in a world of certainty.

Uncertainty drives some of us to keep trying. Inventors, composers, dreamers and the like, operate on the premise of uncertainty when each step, note or effort is unknown and its source hopeful of a successful or beautiful return on efforts. For the optimist, uncertainty is welcome. There is always another way, another chance to attain our goals. Expectations can be exceeded with glory because of uncertainty.

For the pessimist, uncertainty springs fear. Uncertainty can wake you up at 4:00 am in the morning sweating with panic, scared to face the day because you are uncertain about outcome. Uncertainty can cripple us. Uncertainty does not allow the person who lacks confidence to speak up and show the world what they have to offer. It can hold us back and keep us from exploring and dreaming. Fear of uncertainty can steal away some of the greatest moments of our lives. However, because of uncertainty, expectations for failure can turn completely around and bestow grace upon our fears.

Mankind tends to limit its thinking to what is seen, known and certain. We are fortunate to have little control over what is possible, what is certain. We can change our thoughts, behaviors, or methods. We can affect the outcome with our efforts, but still we cannot be certain that all will go as we plan. However, we continue to try to plan and hope. This is what keeps us moving forward, discovering, growing, and expanding. It is also, what humbles us, brings us to our knees and forces us to surrender to possibility and love. If not for uncertainty, all fears would come to fruition. With uncertainty, all things are possible.

Our concept of uncertainty is an important factor on how we are affected by it. It is in our best interest to accept uncertainty as a positive part of humanity. Feeling certain, that uncertainty just could be better.

Learn more about this author, Kim Patty.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.