Wow...I was so relaxed at times that I almost dozed off. Envisioning the wise person, was amazing. I realized that I have always felt that I lacked wisdom in certain areas. I have a tendency (not so much anymore) to leap before I look. Which isn't always a bad thing, but it has gotten me into trouble. I have carried around inferiority because of this, and when I have acted on something too quickly, I would get defensive and lash out. I realized today, how far I have actually come in that "fault". I don't react in that way, anymore. I am more humble and willing to laugh at myself when I make a mistake. The person I chose was my husband, who is very wise and very even tempered. He has never purposely made me feel "stupid" or "un-wise", but I had felt that way when I would make a bad decision and feel attacked...and he wouldn't have to say a word to provoke those feelings. It was self-accusing statements I would say to myself. This exercise made me realize that I had actually become wiser, more patient, and more likely to look BEFORE I leap, now.
In describing he saying, "One cannot lead where one has not gone himself", I believe that the health and wellness professional should be someone who has walked through the places they are asking me to walk. It's a like most rehab centers' counselors are recovered addicts/alcoholics. I believe that empathy is greater,when you have been there and done that, and gives you a credibility that reading it out of a book or brochure cannot give. I think they should also be practicing what they preach, too. If they are expecting me to make healthy choices, they should have that in their own lives, as well.
I absolutely feel that I have an obligation to my clients to be developing my health psychologically, physically, and spiritually. I can only take them where I have been, and if my journey ends, then so does theirs. I implement psychological and spiritual growth by praying, reading my Bible, going to church regularly, meeting with my pastors/leaders to see if there are areas they see that I need to work on. I take care of myself physically, and give myself time to do the things I enjoy, that feed my mind and keep me smiling inside and out. Those things are as simple as having coffee with a friend, running/walking with a friend, or just spending time with friends/family.
That's just what I think :)
Pam,
ReplyDeleteI am gald that this worked so well for you. You are truly blessed to have someone like your husband. I think part of integral health is making sure we surround ourselves with the right people.
I think as far as the meaning of the statement, you have nailed it. I also think it is of extreme importance to listen to our clients and not pass judgement on what they feel would work for them. I think that a client would feel most comfortable surrounded by people that are open to their thoughts and ideas...don't you?
Rose
I absolutely do, ROse. Thanks for your coment on my post. I was hoping it didn't sound as though I was rambling.
DeleteI think that being able to sit down and concentrate on a decision or a problem with no other thoughts, is very beneficial. Having that ability will foster your spiritual and psychological health for years to come.
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