It feels so good when someone meets you where you are – no advice giving, no fixing, just allowing you to be, exactly as you are. To feel heard, seen, and accepted. It is one of the most nourishing experiences I have had, and to be met this way allows me to drop deeper into myself, to become more vulnerable, and to accept myself.
I am sometimes surprised by how few people are actually able to do this. We humans have such a strong tendency to want to help, to offer advice or solutions. Perhaps because we are uncomfortable with our own struggles, our own vulnerability. Or we want to be useful to others, a good intention. But it can feel negative on the receiving end, because it implies that you are not ok, just as you are.
As I have been met by others and allowed to be just as I am, I have grown my capacity to be with my internal experience, to meet myself and allow myself to be. And that has grown my capacity to meet others where they are and allow them to be. A virtuous feedback loop. Sometimes I have a part that wants to jump in and give advice – and when I notice that “fix-it” energy I invite it to give me space just to be with the other in an open-hearted way. Nothing to do, except to offer my compassionate presence. Healing begins with acceptance.
May you find ease today with wherever you are in your own journey.
