The Power of Contemplation—Initiating Rational Self-Dialogue through Questions

Sister Chen Yu An is a philosophy dialogue coach who has long been dedicated to the education of philosophical thinking and dialogue, focusing on issues of parenting, marriage, and personal growth. She is committed to integrating philosophical thought into family education, accompanying people in reflecting, conversing, and growing together in important relationships.

She specializes in guiding people through questions and reflection, helping them rediscover the deeper meanings behind the issues they face. In her classes, she enjoys using gentle questions, scripture reflection, and self-dialogue exercises to accompany participants on a journey that brings spiritual peace and mental clarity. Sister Chen Yu An was baptized in 2019. She has served as a Sunday School teacher in the church and is currently still serving in this role.

In the spiritual journey, stillness is not about escaping the noise, but is a power to maintain sober and calm in the midst of chaos. This course will guide participants through questions and reflection, and teach them how to apply rational thinking and a contemplative mindset when reading scripture or facing life’s challenges, opening up a spiritual dialogue and exploration within oneself.

We will explore the structure of questions and learn how to distill core concepts, allowing thought to become an ally of faith. Through rational contemplation, it brings calm insights, strengthens inner stillness, and transforms it into clear insights and the power to take action.

1. Stillness and Preparation: Entering the State of Contemplation
   • Prayer: Cultivating presence and awareness through breathing and brief meditation.
   • Understanding “Stillness” as a spiritual force.

2. The Art of Asking Questions: From Scripture to Self-Reflection
   • The structure and layers of questions: Introducing different types of questions, including factual, meaningful, and value-based questions.
   • Extracting questions from scriptures and life experiences.

3. Distilling Concepts: From Thoughts to Insights
   • Identifying key concepts in self-questioning.
   • Building a Concept Matrix to clarify the relationship between thought and faith.

4. Practicing Contemplation: Rational Stillness and Faith in Action
   • Transforming questions into spiritual practices.
   • Maintaining sober and calm, and still in everyday life.