Unity, such a beautiful word. During these times of deep division, many of us have been calling for it. But, let’s face it, it can be hard to find common ground with those we call our enemies. At a time when it might feel easy to dehumanize, condemn, or ‘cancel’ those whom we judge, why on Earth would we want unity?
It’s all very understandable — this ‘us and them’ mentality. Yet, our lack of unity leaves us polarized. And it’s difficult, if not impossible, to move forward when we’re feeling polarized.
Now I’m not suggesting that we befriend or agree with everyone. Rather, what I am suggesting is that we seize this moment to befriend those parts of ourselves which we’ve condemned, hidden, neglected, and judged. It’s when we make peace with ourselves that we find it easier to find peace with others.
We all live with some degree of inner polarization. It shows up as that struggle to accept ourselves just as we are. That habit of hiding who we really are. The masks we wear to please and impress. The lies we tell to save face.
However, it’s when we reintegrate the shadowy places within us, that we find profound inner peace.
Sometimes we’re so afraid of our shadows, we’ll do everything possible to get away from them. But, alas, we can’t outrun our shadows. Avoidance won’t make them disappear. In fact, they usually come back even stronger, popping into our lives when we least expect it. As long as we’re driven to avoid our shadows, they will continue to sabotage our lives.
It’s when we turn to embrace our shadows, that they help us transform our lives.
During times of stress, it’s easy to fall back into our shadow patterns. Those habits, behaviors, and moods, we’d rather not admit to. So, what if, instead of judging ourselves, we pause to notice what’s happening. As painful as it might feel, our shadows are calling for healing. When we move into acceptance, we can take a deeper dive to see what’s hiding beneath the surface.
So, how do we embrace what we don’t want to embrace? How do we feel compassion for a part ourselves that we truly dislike?
A good start is to approach our shadows as we would a scared child. When we approach ourselves with gentleness, compassion, and non-judgement, we can listen on a deeper level. This simple act of compassion helps illuminate what’s truly needed to feel better, happier, and empowered to transform our lives.
It takes time, and commitment to work with our shadows. But it’s worth it. EFT Tapping and Matrix Reimprinting are particularly helpful tools in shadow work. Contact me to learn more.
Peace,
Marian
Interested in shadow work? Learn more about my new Shadow Love Programs.
Centering, it’s what we need more of right now. The holiday season is full of distractions, pulling us here, pulling us there. Top it off with a contentious election season, and the seemingly non-stop series of tumultuous events — it can feel nearly impossible to stay centered, calm, and relaxed.