On this path of growth, we want to become more aware and more curious about how we put what we see into mental pictures. What have we loaded into these observations? We will perceive– that is a feature of our humanity- like the characteristic of the sun radiating heat.
Let’s notice our perceptions and the emotions that “seeing that” generates. Do we feel some discomfort in an awareness—a sure sign that some part of ourselves is loaded in there. It’s a flag to pause and review, to learn more.
An Example
Lucille had had one date with Mr X. Soon after she discovered that he had posted a profile on a dating site. L said, “Well, I’m glad to have the information.”
Later that week she interacted with Wise Counsel. Active in her growth process, L was open to hearing some feedback.
WC: “I see you used the word “information” as an attempt to be neutral to discovering aspects of this man’s dating behavior. Are you feeling more open now? I sense yes.
Actually, I perceive that you felt upset, maybe anxious and hurt, in viewing his posting on a dating site. In fact, I would guess that you made an assumption: That man wants another woman and is rejecting me. The word “information” was your attempt to reach for more calm and balance than you felt.
At this point you might as well admit what went on with you, and take the opportunity for self-discovery.
Lucille: Yes I was upset. Yes, I do want to learn.
WC: Let’s imagine what could possibly be going on with Mr X. Perhaps he has an intense job, family issues with grown children, guilt over backed up chores. Possibly, the man may be confused about what he wants. Maybe, Mr X feels impatient with getting to know another– just wants to get to the closeness and skip all this other stuff :). As he grows, he may get scared to face certain parts of himself. He is full of his own emotions! The guy may have no clue that you were interested in him.
Lucille: Wow I had not looked at this situation from all his possible perspectives! Your offering offers so much less sting to me! I see now how I invented stories from my own past hurts: I feel soothed now. I feel a lot better when I allow the wider view.
Another Illustration
Janice recounted a incident unfolding this week with her family. Her father defended her sister to the sister’s husband. The sister had not felt loved and respected by the father but after this incident she realized she had been misperceiving for years.
J said, “We feel an emotion and then we made up a story that becomes our “go-to” perception about the matter.” That incident had a profound impact on the sister and on her relationship with her father. She changed how she saw things and felt enormously better.
Take away for readers:
- Pay more attention to our emotions. Ask how do I feel?
- What story did we just create? Can we shift our perception, even a little.
- Can we see more “Good” in this account. Is there an opportunity to give the benefit of the doubt or to look for something to appreciate? Can we refocus my lens on some bit to enjoy?
Do you have some stories of how you changed your view of events and then felt better? Please share them at jpearl@streamofyes.com. With every reframe you are progressing for yourself and contributing to All That Is!
Janet Pearlman is a spiritual teacher, counselor, healer and artist. These posts demonstrate everyday applications of the path to greater self knowledge and mastery. Opportunities for greater empowerment abound in the moments of our lives. As we all go for operating from a centered and loving space, we are creating a world where peace can prevail. In her forty-six year journey of self-discovery, Janet has deeply studied the teachings of Abraham-Hicks, Ernest Holmes, Inayat Khan and more. Janet offers individual sessions by phone and in person. Please contact her at jpearl555@earthink.net to arrange an appointment.