The most inspiring people’s struggles took them into a dark place; ultimately transforming and changing world views and lives of others. New talents were born from the darkness and most important, they found their voice. They found their shadow self. We are artists, musicians, inventors, writers, creators, thinkers, feelers, believers; we are all a part of something enormously fabulous and that is life on earth. New life journeys are started and re-started, new hobbies, friends, relationships, jobs, beliefs. The opportunity for change is endless. These new beginnings are cycles of change by focusing on yourself. Often this means focusing on the unconscious mind such as painful behaviors, patterns, or events. These are uncomfortable areas of your own life. During this process, it is ok to give yourself permission to just “be”. Doing nothing is doing something; still, silence, peace, clarity.
Hellen Keller, Maya Angelou, Temple Grandin inspire me because something that happened to them is relatable to me. Pieces are my story, your story, our story that allows us to relate to the power in their words. The benefit of learning about yourself is that it helps build confidence, self-love, acceptance, and ultimately improve your relationships with other people. The words of the “greats” give you the courage to find your whole self. The action you take to start the journey is brave, powerful, beautiful, and empowering. I have increased my empathy in life and have humbly learned the meaning of being thankful and grateful for all that is provided in this life. I have made the choice to learn more about my newfound gratitude and this means I am starting another new journey.
During a hospitalization stay, all the famous people with mental illness were painted on an entire wall. Every patient’s name should be placed on that wall and given a gold star for any return visit! There is something positive for everyone to contribute to this world. Illness does not discriminate, and you can achieve and learn your purpose. Everyone’s life journey is challenging. Begin with small steps of self-discovery and self-honesty. Take responsibility for your wellbeing.
It is more comfortable for people to accept a genetic mental illness diagnosis than a diagnosis that could be caused by other people. This is why I recommend therapy for a healing journey. Some families have generational challenges ranging from alcoholism, nicotine addition, substance abuse (marijuana, meth, opioid), abandonment, physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, narcissism, perfectionism, control issues, self-esteem issues, autism, and various mental health issues such as Bipolar, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia, anxiety, eating disorders, personality disorders, agoraphobia, and depression. By nature, I seek to rid the world of ruthlessness, brutality, warfare, and cold-blooded cruelty. I seek various kinds of violence to stop. I am personally affected by witnessing this in the world and truly seek peace on earth.
Each of us have gifts and talents. Sometimes it means digging in and journaling about the possibilities and expressing what you have overcome and where it has guided you. Be your own inspiration and become the best version of you. Give yourself permission to be human along the way.
“You are not what has happened to you. You are what you choose to become.” Chuck Norris
What is Shadow Work?
“Shadow work is a practice that involves exploring and integrating the parts of your personality that you have repressed or rejected. The shadow is the part of your unconscious mind that contains everything that you are not aware of. It includes all the thoughts, beliefs, and emotions that you have pushed away because they are deemed unacceptable by society or yourself. This process can help you gain a deeper understanding of yourself, your motivations, and your behaviors. By embracing your shadow, you can also tap into your creativity and intuition.
There are many ways to do shadow work, including journaling, meditation, and therapy. It’s important to approach shadow work with compassion and curiosity, rather than judgment or shame. Remember that everyone has a shadow, and it’s a natural part of the human experience.”
Jenny Dinovi
References
- Alicia Gilbert
- Inner Shadow Work
- Amanda Linette Meder
- Rediscovering Sacredness
- Psychology Today
- Guide to Shadow Work
- https://eggshelltherapy.com/shadow-work/
- https://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/shadow-work-emotional-suffering/
- https://www.readytogroove.com/shadow-work/other-methods-of-healing
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/what-is-shadow-work
- https://www.betterup.com/blog/shadow-work
- https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapy-types/schema-therapy
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