Words Heal
Whenever I have a client who is newly stepping into their role as a healing practitioner, I offer this advice:
“Most people need to be heard and witnessed. They need to know that they, and their stories, matter.
If you can listen to them with presence, most of the work is already done.”
I believe this applies to everyone. Yet, the challenge is often being in presence with someone, and not being in your own head. Have you ever told a story to someone who constantly interrupts you? Do you feel seen and heard in that situation? I don’t believe the cause of that is malevolent, but simply that the other person also really needs to hear their own words, as well.
What about with mentors and role models? - Don’t you find them so much better when they also show you they are human, and not perfect? Isn’t it healing just to know that they struggle too? The pedestalization of another leads to loss of their humanity.
Our greatest connections are in listening to each other’s stories, for you never know how even one word can impact another. We used to know this in ancient times when we gathered around a fire and told stories. In it, our ancestors weren’t posturing to look as good as they could, they were sharing what they were struggling with so they could find support and solidarity.
I once held an online event where I gave a prompt to look back on a certain year and see what that year brought up. One participant shared early and mentioned that it had been a particularly good year for her. Another participant, who had had a difficult year that year, clammed up and didn’t share. Afterward, her impression was that she was the only one who had a tough year. If she had shared her truth, very likely others would have had the permission to share that their years were difficult too.
It can be so hard to be vulnerable at all, and particularly difficult in spaces where you are unfamiliar. The gold is in the sharing, though. That’s where the transformation and healing happens.
Please know that if you are in a healing space with me, I will ensure that you are safe in your vulnerability. Your words matter. For you, and for everyone else. I learn from my clients all the time. We each have an important perspective and knowledge-base to share for the good of all.
Your vibration begins in your throat. It is time to open up and expand.
