We used to think about whether a person's word was their bond: could their truth be trusted? That question was always important because what's true shapes the world and guides the choices we make. Now, with these AI programs making pictures, videos, and all kinds of stuff, we're back to that same question. Except now, it's about trusting the machines.
Before, when you saw a picture, you figured it captured a real moment (unless it was crazy weird). AI changed that. Now, unless someone swears it's real, it's safer to assume a picture is a cool invention, not a window into the world. This is kinda scary because truth is more than just facts – it's about what we believe is right or wrong. Made-up stuff can feel real, muddling that up for us. Doubt can feel like it's tearing things down, but it's actually a helper.
Here is a blessing of doubt I've been rolling around in my head for the last few months, something to help as I walk through this dark and confusing path:
May we make peace with questions that shake our certainty. Doubt shows care for truth and filters out lies. Its honest asking draws wisdom near.
Even long ago, doubt helped faith, not just harmed it. Blind faith loses power, but bold inquiry wins it back.
It's okay to feel ready at the edge of what we believe, and patiently lean into the unknown instead of rushing to conclusions. Truths, not facts, can teach. Sometimes, it works better to just hide there.
Now, thinking machines unsettle what is real. Old bonds between images and truth weaken.
We who trust reason's light must gently retrain our senses. We'll learn how to sit with confusion while we wait for clarity. We'll admit to not-knowing, expecting new insights to come.
This is the holy doubt we need today. May it change our beliefs into living quests for answers. In this strange new world, may it gently grow wisdom within us.
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