Sometimes, what we see isn’t the full story. Whether it’s ancient religious texts, artistic interpretations, or the overwhelming thoughts during a panic attack, applying reality checks can offer powerful clarity.

In my latest blog post, I share how questioning my perceptions transformed my understanding of faith, history, and mental health. From uncovering hidden truths in religious antiquities to grounding techniques for anxiety — this journey is all about growth through curiosity.

The Power of Reality Checks: From Religious Antiquities to Panic Attacks

Reality checks are powerful tools that offer perspective in various aspects of life. Whether navigating ancient religious texts or managing mental health challenges, taking a moment to question our perceptions can lead to profound clarity and growth.

Reality Checks in Religious Antiquities

Exploring religious texts beyond the Bible can be an enlightening but complex journey. Texts like the Gospel of Thomas or the Gospel of Mary Magdalene, as well as other Gnostic writings, provide alternative perspectives on faith and spirituality. However, applying reality checks is essential when analyzing these works.

Contextual Questions to Ask:

• Were these texts written within the claimed historical period?
• Does the material (papyrus, ink) date back accurately?
• Are the names, customs, and events consistent with the era?

For instance, the canonical gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John provide eyewitness accounts or secondhand narratives of Jesus. Comparing these with non-canonical texts raises questions about authenticity and intent. What motivates readers to seek answers outside the Bible? For me, it was a personal journey rooted in trauma and disillusionment with the church.

A Personal Search for Truth

I began reading ancient texts, including the Jewish Talmud and Babylonian historical records, to challenge my faith. My upbringing in a strict Baptist environment left me feeling judged and abandoned by God. I was disenfranchised, especially when life became difficult. “Disenfranchised” refers to the feeling or state of being deprived of rights, privileges, or a sense of belonging. In a broader sense, it can describe feeling alienated or excluded from a group, institution, or system, often accompanied by a loss of power or voice. In your context, it reflects the experience of feeling disconnected or let down by the church or faith community.

Greek antiquities, in particular, captivated me. I carried deep resentment toward the Apostle Paul due to the teachings I received in certain churches. One passage stood out:

“Let a woman learn quietly with all submissiveness. I do not permit a woman to teach or to exercise authority over a man; rather, she is to remain quiet.” — 1 Timothy 2:11-12 (ESV)

These words reinforced my belief that Paul was a chauvinistic follower of Jesus. My interpretation was clouded by personal trauma and experiences in male-dominated environments where questioning authority was discouraged.

The Importance of Historical Context

Reality checks helped me re-examine Paul’s writings with greater clarity. Scholars widely agree that Paul wrote at least seven books of the Bible, including Romans, 1 and 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Philippians, 1 Thessalonians, and Philemon. Understanding the historical context of his letters was transformative. Paul wrote to early Christian churches facing unique cultural challenges. Women in some regions were disrupting services or being targeted for conversion by pagan religions. His instructions addressed specific issues rather than promoting widespread oppression.

Reality Checks in Art

Reality checks extend beyond religious texts to art and culture. I once saw a massive painting of the Last Supper in France, where a guinea pig was served on a platter. This detail, influenced by Portuguese culture, was an artistic liberty meant to make the scene relatable to viewers. However, it is not historically accurate. Asking questions like, “What food was actually served in that time period?” can provide a reality check that reveals cultural context and artistic intent.

Reality Checks in Mental Health

Reality checks aren’t just useful for understanding ancient texts; they are equally powerful in mental health. During a panic attack, perceptions become distorted. Engaging the senses brings us back to the present moment.

Grounding Techniques:

• Physical Awareness: Notice the surfaces you’re touching — the floor beneath your feet, the chair supporting you.
• Breath Control: Take slow, deep breaths. Inhale deeply and make your exhale longer than your inhale to activate the parasympathetic nervous system.
• Mindful Observation: Identify three things you can see, two you can touch, and one you can hear.

These techniques help shift focus from catastrophic thoughts to tangible reality.

Lessons Learned from Reality Checks

One of my most eye-opening experiences came from visiting Greece. I was intrigued by a particular church with a mosaic depicting Apollo and Artemis, which I mistakenly interpreted as Jesus and Mary Magdalene. After reading the Gospel of Mary, I was convinced the church had obscured something profound. However, learning that Apollo and Artemis were siblings, not lovers, shattered my assumptions. A simple reality check of asking, “What is their relationship?” could have saved me months of speculation.

Conclusion

Reality checks are essential tools in both spiritual exploration and emotional well-being. They remind us to approach information with curiosity and humility, allowing for personal growth and greater understanding. Whether reading ancient texts or managing a panic attack, asking the right questions can make all the difference.