CLARITY
I was in group counseling a couple of days ago and we were working on a series of exercises centered around boundaries. Big, big subject with survivors of domestic violence! The emotions that each of us were feeling stretched the length of the spectrum...some were feeling pain, some confusion, etc. When I was working on the exercise, prior to when the floor was open to share our experiences with it, what I had written on paper was clear and I understood it. But, when I had the opportunity to share it, what was missing stood out in my mind. This brought a clarity that I wasn’t aware of but appreciated knowing that had I not shared, I wouldn’t have been shown what I need to consider and work on in this area.
Clarity is something that we are in short supply of right now and that is totally understandable. It is also something that we all desperately need. It could bring us up out of despair and lead us along the path to healing and a new life that one couldn’t have imagined without it. Clarity, and the way we achieve it, potentially looks different for each person. For me, I get clarity from God (continually seeking Him, a growing relationship with Him, and His wisdom), from counseling and therapy (so awesome!), and having what I call a “meeting of the minds” with people who not only share my views, but also people who don’t.
In general, clarity can be achieved by seeking out knowledge and sharing with others. This proves to be risky business for everyone right now because we, as a collective unit, are all probably experiencing the most negatively impactful experience of our lifetime. We are feeling extremely vulnerable and full of fear. The last thing most of us want to do is be more vulnerable...the thought is that one might not survive. For me, this is where faith comes in...pushing myself beyond what I know I don’t have the capacity to do on my own. In this vulnerable space is where clarity lies. Having faith helps to keep me from spiraling irrevocably into darkness. I couldn’t have survived the last four years of my life without faith and I surely would find it impossible to remain positive and focused on the silver lining in the midst of a pandemic without it.
Gaining clarity is something that would not only benefit you, it would benefit everyone within your intimate circle and radiate outward. It is definitely worth taking that step of faith. AND it is A step. ONE step at a time every day. Just one step a day. It could look like placing a phone call to a trusted friend and sharing how you’re feeling. Just one conversation. Not only would that make you feel better, your friend would feel honored that you trusted him/her with your personal experience in such a vulnerable time for everyone. It would also potentially inspire them to do the same thing. Now see? You have created a chain reaction just by sharing your feelings. People need this type of intimacy...to be heard and felt. You will become aware of a pattern forming: you feel better, your friend feels good that you trust them, a friendship is building and growing. You now are experiencing the silver lining in the midst of a pandemic and helping someone else along the way.
Please try this. I know it seems simple, and it is. You know how they say, “it’s the simple things”? That’s true! It’s a series of simple things done by each person one day at a time to gain clarity for themselves that will help others in return and radiate outward. Who would think that searching for something for yourself could potentially change the world? It’s true! It’s in your hands. Reach out. Share. It’ll work...I promise :)!