Finding the balance between expressing and encroaching,
between stepping back and leaning in.
There are moments to blend
and times to expand.
Expressing one’s colors
requires softness and boldness,
the ability to complement and hold up another and still stand fully on your own.
Today, will it be accent or statement?
There are places to be both.
I didn’t listen to myself.
I didn’t present myself clearly.
My primary goal to avoid conflict,
I jeopardized my safety to ensure my survival.
And just like that I feel devalued.
My experience is in direct contrast with my values.
I chose inner conflict rather than anger.
Oh, I get angry, but I turn it all on me,
Suppressing outward expression out of fear,
For the sake of compliance.
Meeting the needs of others supplants
My capacity to meet my own needs.
Sacrificing my internal sense of security for connection
Causes an internal disconnection between my own heart and mind.
My body bristles at the assault and becomes a harbor for my anger
Disappointment surfaces as dis-ease and lingers
In my consciousness and beyond.
Suddenly, the sweet voice within that I so defiantly ignored
Grabs my full attention as it says,
“You did your best…
And they did too.”
“You are capable of keeping yourself safe now.
Be strong, consistent, and clear.
Make choices that preserve your freedom and safety.
Love yourself above all else
And you will never have to sacrifice your values for security.”
A new state of being immerges
Free of disappointment
Free of feeling wronged, hurt, and weak.
Free of resentment.
Free to be grateful.
Free to forgive.
Free of burdens
and unconditionally loved.
Boundaries add to the architecture of the landscape.
Boundaries provide protective edges.
Boundaries tame the wild nature in such a way as to contain but not limit.
Boundaries provide soft and gentle guidance to ensure safety and prevent harm.
Boundaries do not need to be solid, heavy walls, or impassible fortresses.
Optimal boundaries leave room to move and breathe and gaps through which opportunities can peek through.
Whether meticulously trimmed and groomed or allowed to fill and empty on their own, the edges of the boundaries remain clear.
Boundaries can always be created or dissolved, but their imprint lingers, forever a path of protection.
Well-built boundaries are exceptionally beautiful.
Monday Mindfulness 