Haddon - Spiral (feat. Hannah Tackett)

Reflection

A spiral can move in two directions, downward into confusion or despair, or, less often discussed, upward into growth and clarity, and much of the emotional language people use naturally reflects this same image. Scripture is honest about the downward pull; the psalmist describes feeling as though he were 'sinking in deep mire, where there is no foothold' (Psalm 69:2), a vivid image for the disorientation of spiralling thoughts or circumstances. What is significant is that this same psalm does not end in the mire, but moves towards a cry for rescue and eventual praise. A song exploring the sensation of spiralling, whether emotionally, mentally or spiritually, gives voice to an experience many people recognise but rarely name aloud, especially within faith communities where struggle can feel like it should be hidden. Naming a spiral honestly is often the first step towards finding footing again, and music that does this without rushing to a tidy resolution can offer real companionship to anyone currently in the middle of one.

Questions to sit with

• Have you experienced a spiral, emotionally or mentally, that felt hard to name at the time?
• What has helped you find footing again during a difficult season?
• How comfortable is your faith community with honest struggle rather than tidy resolutions?