“This being human is a guest house. Every morning a new arrival. A joy, a depression, a meanness. Some momentary awareness comes, as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all! Even if they are a crowd of sorrows, who violently sweep your house empty of its furniture. Still, treat each guest honourably.
He may be clearing you out for some new delight. The dark thought, the shame, the malice. Meet them at the door laughing and invite them in. Be grateful for whatever comes, because each has been sent as a guide from beyond” Rumi
Found this beautiful and timely passage when I was looking through my library of inspirational quotes. Most of us are going through a roller-coaster of emotions and this text says it all. As always, we aren’t in control of the circumstances around us. But we are in control of our responses to each circumstance.
Next time you’re caught in the thick of it, ask yourself:
“What is happening here? What is ‘this’ trying to teach me?” Take yourself away from your environment. Concentrate on your breath. Mindful breathing calms the nervous system. You’ll be surprised at how much more resourceful you are at dealing with the situation at hand.
It’s so important to honour every emotion, but not let them take control. Being able to recognise and label the emotion is key to how it can be reframed
It’s vital to teach our kids a healthy mental resilience and be the examples they’d want to lead. Discussing our thoughts and our feelings openly will give them permission to recognise and acknowledge their own emotions.
I’ve been working with a number of school aged children, supporting them with their challenges. Reach out if you’d like a chat please.
Love and strong coffee
Vafa
