Integrating a balance that includes time alone and time with others is valuable. Some of us thrive when we are leading with social connection. Some of us may prefer our quiet time alone. When we integrate togetherness with self-reflection, in a balance that works for us we begin to thrive.
There is a gift of seeing our own wholeness. It is in the space of self-reflection that we begin to truly know what we need and value. It is in the space of self-reflection that we truly have the opportunity to deepen our relationship with ourselves compassionately and openheartedly.
Taking time to journal, day dream, ponder, sit quietly by the water, meditate, stretch, bask in the sunshine, get lost in nature, set intentions, and pray, are ways we may choose to listen to our deeper knowing.
Creating community also is a gift. Community fosters a sense of connection and belonging. When we join together in community, we are able to build relationships, share experiences, and support one another.
Nurturing our interpersonal life helps to cultivate self-compassion and self-acceptance. Seeing ourselves through the eyes of others offers the opportunity to feel validated, understood, and appreciated.
We all have a part in creating a healthy community for ourselves and eachother. It is up to each and every one of us to decide how we can do our part in creating a healthy community for our people, for all people.
Liberation can create healthy access to a range of opportunities, resources, and services that are necessary for individuals and communities to thrive.
Oppression can create divisions and barriers between members of a community. When certain groups are marginalized or discriminated against, they may be excluded from social, economic, or political opportunities that are available to others. This can create a sense of resentment, mistrust, and isolation among members of the community.
Practice:
Take a minute to journal about what you are grateful for in your life. Who are the people, the places, the things in your life that you are grateful for?
Allow yourself to ask some potentially hard questions with an open heart. Let go of self-judgment and allow yourself to hear your own truth.
How have you played part in liberating yourself and allowing yourself the freedom of acceptance and belonging? How have you played a part of liberating others?
How have you played a part in the oppression of yourself? What are the patterns and behaviors that bind you and keep you from connecting to your wholeness? How have you played a part in the oppression others? How does this make you feel?
liberation is a collective effort, and it takes everyone working together to create real change. We all benefit from the empowerment and safety within ourselves and eachother.
This blog inspired by a quote from the book, The Hidden Wholeness
The Journey Toward An Undivided Life
"We have much to learn from within, but it is easy to get lost in the labyrinth of the inner life. We have much to learn from others, but it is easy to get lost in the confusion of the crowd. So we need solitude and community simultaneously"
~Parker J. Palmer
Comments