Burning Beneath

I have always struggled with accepting what I’ve been told as truth. Since late elementary school, during religion studies, I loved the tales of miracles and heroes—so much so that I placed them on pedestals, almost god-like in my admiration. But as I grew older, something shifted.

By the time I reached university, I found myself questioning everything—the histories I read, the rules society lived by, the constructs that governed our daily lives. Social media only amplified this. I saw how easily people shared information, forwarding messages without a second thought, unaware of the impact they might have on those who take things at face value. Some changes in behavior are subtle, but others lead to ignorance, extremism, even violence.

I have made it a habit to verify information, especially if I sense it has the power to mislead or shape minds in dangerous ways. But that brings me back to the core question:

How do we know what is true and what is not?

Is truth something objective, or does it shift based on perspective, culture, or belief? If history is written by the victors, how much of what we accept as fact is merely a narrative shaped to serve an agenda? If science evolves and corrects itself over time, does that mean truth is fluid?

Here’s what I’ve come to understand about seeking truth:

• Question Everything, Even Yourself
  The first step to finding truth is recognizing that we might be wrong. Bias clouds judgment, and sometimes, we see only what we want to see. Truth-seeking requires a willingness to challenge our own beliefs.
• Follow the Evidence, Not the Emotion
  Just because something feels true doesn’t mean it is. Emotion can be a powerful deceiver. Seek sources that provide evidence, data, and logical reasoning rather than relying on stories designed to stir emotions.
• Verify, Always
  In a world of misinformation, checking sources is crucial. Who benefits from this narrative? Is it supported by multiple credible sources? If it’s a claim about science, does it come from a peer-reviewed study? If it’s history, does it align with primary sources?
• Acknowledge That Truth Can Be Complex
  Some things are black and white—facts rooted in science and reality. Others exist in shades of gray, shaped by context, interpretation, and perspective. A single event can have multiple truths depending on who tells the story.
• Seek Wisdom, Not Just Knowledge
  Information is everywhere, but wisdom comes from knowing how to interpret it. Truth isn’t just about facts—it’s about understanding, experience, and discernment.

So, what is true and what is not? Maybe the search for truth is an ongoing journey rather than a final destination. Maybe it’s about asking the right questions rather than settling for easy answers.

What do you think? How do you determine what is true in a world full of conflicting narratives?