Feeling your story.

I’m sure you’ve told your story before. Whether it’s been for a college admissions essay, a blurb on a dating site, possibly on a job interview, first date and maybe even with some close connections. But have you felt it? I get the honor of meeting with incredible individuals who share their story with me, what they’ve endured, right as I meet them. Immediately, I can sense the parts of their story they have created barriers around. The part of their story they choose to laugh, the part where they say “It is what it is.”, the part of their story where I hear the lump in their throat, and the part they shorten to move past it more quickly. We do these things to protect ourselves from discomfort. Feeling can be uncomfortable. However, these are my cues of what needs healing. As we get to a place where there is enough safety between us they are able to feel their story. This is healing. Allowing the emotions to come alive as we share our pain actually changes the way our brain makes connections and functions. 

Reflect.  

What parts of your story have you created barriers around? What parts do you choose to avoid talking about, sharing with others? I invite you to reflect on why these barriers have been built. Was it too much at the time to feel? Can you feel it now? You are stronger now, wiser now and more capable of feeling those painful experiences. You are ready for healing.  

Connect. 

Do you have a person in your life you can trust with your vulnerability? If yes, consider sharing part of your story that is difficult. But this time…tell the story differently. Slow down as you share, be curious with yourself as you tell the story. Allow them to be curious with you. Proceed gently and bravely. You are deserving of healing this part, and all parts, of your story.