Hello—
9/11—one year shy of twenty years ago—all those lives lost too early, dreams crushed and hopes shattered.
Since then, every year, I grapple with what might be the best way to remember that day of huge loss and upheaval: memorials? prayers? meditations? moments of silence? visiting the site?
And every year, I return to the notion that since I have the privilege of still being alive, the best way for me to honor those lost is to create the absolute best life I can for My Self.
To me, that means really digging into the stuff of life to release whatever is standing in the way and preventing me from a level of ease and grace that the victims of 9/11 weren't able to enjoy.
So to that end, this week, let's consider what I call "words to live by" from four powerhouses: William Shakespeare, Herman Hesse, Auguste Rodin and even George Harrison to see what they have to teach us.
When we encounter just the right quote, it can remind us that we are not alone in this human endeavor—that others have grappled in tangled moments just as we are right now—with all the stumbles, upsets and disheartening results we may be encountering. And when we can trace the arc of our healing through just the right words, the process can become much
less daunting:
"Self Care / Selfishness" (3:01)—The first step in choosing to take care of Our Selves is to become a priority in our own lives. It’s counterintuitive to what so many of us were taught, and yet, it is mandatory for growth, evolution and change.
"Within Your Self" (2:27)—During the process, when we find Our Selves stalled at a particular turning point, it can be
so tempting to assume that “someone else” can magically give us the answers to our questions and show us shortcuts along the way. And yet—is that the case? Does someone really know you better than you know Your Self? and is there some secret they have that you don't?
"Patience" (2:04)—Once we’ve been on our healing path for a while, impatience can often set in—especially when we’re slogging through a challenge that seems to be repetitive and has no end in sight. And yet, when we choose to reframe patience into an action instead
of just waiting for something to happen, the act itself takes on a life of its own.
"Life Flows On" (2:24)—Finally, here’s a great reminder that whether or not we choose to do our healing work, in the grand scheme of things, life just keeps on going—with or without us.
How do these words resonate with you? Where are you in your practice?Can you draw on any of these quotes to help you? Share your thoughts by commenting.
"…insightful, incisive and astute."
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In the meantime, may you find the words that truly speak to you, guide you, give you comfort and support you as you move forward in your life.
Here's to You and your continued healing.
Stay safe and well.
Onwards—gently.
Until next time—
Thanks much.
Cheers,
Steph
Stephanie Swafford, BCPP, BFRP
"When It’s Time to Listen To Your Self"
