Faith is often understood as a belief in something otherwise deemed unbelievable. This usually covers most, if not all, metaphysical, religious and supernatural considerations. Some sort of redemption seems to play a big part of finding faith in all the world religions. Whether by awakening, baptism or rebirth, this redeeming quality salves the emotional pain of living with fear, moral cowardice and regret.

For me, faith is the willingness to face an uncertain future with some measure of accountability. Statements of faith are usually fairly simple, if not entirely comprehendible, much less provable. Nonetheless, it's easier to simply ignore what I don't understand, than be willing to be mistaken about, humbled or challenged by it. When there is a heartfelt conviction, true faith does not weaken in the face of challenge and ridicule. Such strength comes from the focus and pure intention of the heart's innermost longing.

This intuitive quality of faith can also be dangerous. If my heart's longings become unhinged, I'll forget to consider the causes and effects of my actions. Simply put, this common act of losing myself in desire is the cause of all my suffering and mistaken beliefs. Nonetheless, I can learn to trust faith in the same way I've learned to do everything else: try, try again. This is the true power of my faith, it's the part of me that never gives up.

Learning to harness the willingness to go forward and never give up is the light that faith shines upon my path. When beliefs conflict, I let the mind sort itself out. These are often the most important times to have faith and be an honest witness to my own life decisions. Meditate. I will feel much better than if I become lost in the hope and fear of distracted mind. If my faith can't even help me do that, then what's the point?