The necessity of confusion...

Rebbe Nachman constantly refers to those moments when we seem completely turned around and disoriented, and their value and necessity for growth.

For example, in Likutei MoHaran II - 12, he describes how confusion is an active ingredient in original Torah ideas. Before one can produce novel insights in their study of Torah, he first has to go through a period of doubt, where there is no crystal understanding. Only by removing those doubts through striving for understanding can he reach any clarity.

Also, sometimes when a person sincerely wishes to grow, he is subjected to enormous amounts of pressure by the Evil Inclination. Tests which he previously believed he had passed suddenly rear their ugly heads again, and casts upon this person a shadow of self doubt and confusion. Not so, says Rebbe Nachman - one must realize that when he is being tested, it is because he is moving upward, to the next level! To progress further, one must experience a certain amount of negative energy, a trial that tests his resolve and confronts him with the very things he rails against so much. The resulting confusion can result in a much stronger clarity, as he cuts away the layers of confusion and delves deeper into the heart of the matter, recognizing the tests and tribulations for what they are.

This idea can be a tremendous source of positive reinforcement for us all, if we utilize this teaching correctly...