On Friday, May 29, I woke up to find my phone flooded with stories of a country on fire. I was so upset and disoriented by what I was reading and feeling that I completely forgot to show up for one of my clients during our weekly scheduled coaching call.
Since then, my state of mind has continued to be one of agitation and angry judgment, as I react to what I am reading, watching, and hearing around me.
After living from this place of wounded agitation for two weeks, I see the way in which my reactivity is spilling into my personal life, draining me, and leading to disconnection with myself and others - rather than to wisdom and connection.
Over the past 5 days, I have spent time exploring the teachings of Gandhi and Dr. King; listening to the words of Pema Chodron; and dipping my toes into some Tonglen meditation (where we breathe in darkness/pain and breathe out lightness/relief for others).
This has led me to have a feeling of clarity - probably temporary, as all clarity seems to be for me :) - that living in reactivity and judgment will neither give me wisdom about right action, nor sustain me for the long haul of co-creating the world in which I want to live.
I'd love to hear from you. Drop me a line by replying to this email or by emailing: Elaine@Conflict180.com
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Daily Reflections are glimmerings and notes to self based on my personal experiments with conflict, communication, and connection. Follow at Facebook/Conflict180 & Instagram/Conflict180