Well Adjusted: Finding Balance in Faith and Life

Some days, I find myself confronted with countless "should" and "should not" options. Society often dictates norms and expectations, yet I am reminded of Jiddu Krishnamurti’s words: "It is no measure of health to be well adjusted to a profoundly sick society." True well-being is not about conforming blindly but about aligning ourselves with truth, purpose, and faith.

When faced with these choices, I anchor myself in the assurance that "God’s will never takes me where His grace will not sustain me." (Ruth Humlecker). Life is not about striving to meet arbitrary standards; as Edna Ferber wisely put it, "Big doesn't necessarily mean better. Sunflowers aren't better than violets." Each of us has a unique path and purpose, and our worth is not determined by societal comparisons.

In Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) meetings, we often hear the phrase, "stay in the middle of the herd." While there is wisdom in the support and accountability of a community, does it mean we must always conform, avoiding risks and challenges? Is safety, security, or social acceptance the ultimate goal? I would argue otherwise. Faith calls us to step beyond comfort, to challenge limiting beliefs, and to walk a path of integrity and purpose. It is not about reckless rebellion but about choosing an independent path led by faith and dignity.

Step 5 of AA reminds us: "Admitted to God, to ourselves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs." In this context, we must also admit and clarify our values. What do we stand for? How do our choices reflect our beliefs? True well-adjustment is not about passive acceptance but about taking meaningful actions that align with our spiritual convictions.

A Spiritual Perspective

The scriptures provide powerful guidance on resisting conformity and standing firm in faith:

• Romans 12:2: "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect."

• 1 John 2:15-17: "Do not love the world or the things in the world... For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world."

• Standing Firm in Faith: "We are called to resist the temptations and pressures that seek to draw us away from God, while also being reassured of our identity in Christ."

• Elder D. Todd Christofferson: "To persevere firm and steadfast in the faith of Christ requires that the gospel of Jesus Christ penetrate one’s heart and soul."

True adjustment is not about adapting to the dysfunction of the world but about rooting ourselves in faith, seeking God’s will, and walking with courage. May we each find the balance between community and individuality, between guidance and self-discovery, and ultimately, between worldly expectations and divine purpose.