The statement "one cannot lead another where one has not gone" is true in so many aspects. I think we can reference it to simple things like education. One cannot teach others without the experience or education to do so. It can also be related to the fact that we are clearly more influential as empathizers than sympathizers. Empathy means that we have experienced their pain, their same trials, or even their happiness. You've been there, done that, so to speak. Sympathy as humans is the understanding of how they could feel that way, but never actually going through the same experience. Or what about the simple recommendation for that restaurant you've been wanting to try. Who would you rather listen to....the one who has actually ate there, or the one who heard it was good? Schlitz & Amorok (2005) relate it as "The ability to see the divine in everyone and treat each individual as though he or she were Christ or the Buddha himself can transform the suffering of illness into the grace of healing." (p. 477). Always seeking out the other side of the story, being non-judgmental, and carrying yourself with loving-kindness and grace will allow you to lead and use the wisdom to speak fairly, and cultivate our free spirit to human flourishing. We will be able to be looked at with having our own wisdom and inner calmness that many will seek.
I believe that recognizing and cultivating a oneness with the wisdom and kindness of others will not only enhance our well being, but nurture our growth to integral health. I will not only be able to utilize this in my personal relationships, but also with my patients by keeping an open mind and foster an attitude that will ensure trust and a positive influence on others. By doing this I will be a more effective patient educator, I will lead by example, and I will reap what I sow. Schlitz & Amorok (2005) sum up these rewards by saying "This tarnish, which is manifested as disease ("dis-ease") in our patients, can be the grace through which both healer and patient can transform their respective lives." (p. 477). How fortunate for me and any other lucky individual to recognize and bring the practices of integral health and human flourishing into their lives and the lives of their patients/clients. I know people with these capabilities....I am anxious and humbled to be considered to be a part of this elite group!
Have an awesome week everyone!
Katie
References:
Schlitz, M., Amorok, T. & Micozzi, M.S. (2005). Consciousness & healing: Integral
approaches to mind-body medicine. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier.
Hi Kate,
ReplyDeleteNice post. Your point on seeing the potential in other is so important in the world today. We can get so caught up in our own daily lives and our own problems and pain that we forget that there are other hurting people around us. Taking care to care for our own needs and then extending those to other goes a long way in making our world a better place to be. Think about it, what if everyone that you know did one small thing a day to make someone day, and then those people did the same? And so on…What would happen to our world? When you stop to think about it, it really can blow your mind!
Think about it…”Improve you health and your world…be kind to others!”
Thanks,
Darlene
Katie,
ReplyDeleteGreat insight from this weeks activities. That is wonderful that you were able to make the connection with your wise ancestor. I agree with the process of learning and experiencing in order to help others with their experiences and that is why sometimes we must learn difficult lessons because we then can help others.
Katie,
ReplyDeleteAnother great post! I did do the exercise with my mother in mind, and I still feel the calmness that I do every time I talk with her, she moved on from this life in 1999. It is hard to picture her face but I see a yellow light that always has been representative of her to me.
I agree, the best way to teach or tell someone about something is to do it from experience. That is why I am glad my kids can see the changes I am going through and see how better I am.
Have a great week!! Keep on your bright path..
Tammy
Katie,
ReplyDeleteI think it is real wonderful that you were able to bring your great grandmother back into your life in such a positive a peaceful way. I think it will serve you as you take the steps toward health and well being. Empathy is exactly the word to use when you talk about helping others participate in these contemplative practices. Its hard to have empathy if you have no idea how hard it can be to do these practices. I think as therapists we will be able to understand frustrations that happen when you are just learning how to use these practices in your daily life. Good job.
It is so great to see that you pictured your great grandma. I myself still talk to my dad and find myself talking to him when I am in difficult times. It is such a source of strength to be able to go to someone in your time of need and feel their presence so fully in your life.
ReplyDelete