Practicing rest and reflection during change

Hello Friends,

How are you faring amidst the winds of change? Are you managing your secret multiple personality disorder well?! I’ve decided to name my alter egos to make it more fun. Let’s see, there’s Raging Rita, Bossy Betsy, Nervous Nellie, Curious Carol, Nerdy Nancy, Silly Sally, Caring Carrie, Loving Linda and many, many more!

Times of change can feel difficult and excruciating, even if we know we need it or really want it. We are likely to experience a plethora of emotions in a short period of time, and this is normal. Rest and reflection are essential during this time. You will feel tired and need to check in with yourself along the way. Rest often, practice extreme self-care and acknowledge how far you’ve come, where you are now and where you’re heading. If you try to bulldoze your way through change you may self-destruct.

The key is to remember that emotions are information. So when one of your least preferable alter egos show up, they are there to help; there is something you need to know that will aid you along your journey. Simply take time to sit with them and hear what they have to say – usually it’s something you are not seeing or acknowledging that can hurt you in the long run. For instance, Raging Rita has been visiting with me recently and I realize that she is here to protect me, ensure that I express my truth, and respect my boundaries. Now, I do have to keep her in check because she approaches things like it’s a war zone where all hell has broken loose and it’s every man for himself, and that can create a bit of trouble. But, I appreciate her input and once I’ve acknowledge and addressed how I’m hurting or sabotaging myself, she leaves satisfied that she’s done her job.

Mel’s Two Cents: Embrace all your emotions; let them inform you of how to love, accept and respect yourself. Rest often. Reflect on your journey: be proud of how far you’ve come, express gratitude for where you are and what you have now, and get excited about where you’re going. Life is an exhilarating adventure but you won’t make it unscathed or enjoy it much unless you take time to rest and reflect along the way.

Until next time.

Mel

P.S. I once again share one of my favorite poems that beautifully sums up our chat today:

The Guest House by Rumi
This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they are a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.
Be grateful for whatever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.