Yes, the Center Space is key. In my life I have made rash decisions while in emotional mind. The opposite is reasonable mind, which is too logical. And I think that we all must strive for the combination, wise mind.
I have experienced trauma yet didn't admit that I truly needed therapy. As others have written, there is power in sharing your story with people who have had similar experiences (or with an empathetic therapist).
But I was in denial, so my suppressed feelings then burst out with much more intensity. There is an astute Buddhist saying: "Three things cannot remain long hidden; the sun, the moon, and the truth."
Another expression that resonates with me: "What are the three hardest words in the English language for a man to say? The answer is not I love you. It's I need help!"
I love that Buddhist saying so much—it's so true. Also it seems like what you're pointing to is the middle way, which is also very Buddhist. Thank you for these insights, Barry. It can feel daunting to tell our stories, it can make us feel so vulnerable, like we're letting down our guard. But once you do, it's such a relief, and you realize it's what gives you the power to move forward. Sending love <3
Thank you for sharing this, and for your kind words about the book. I'm always amazed at how sharing our stories connects us, even when the details are different. So glad you're here, and sending love <3
Yes, the Center Space is key. In my life I have made rash decisions while in emotional mind. The opposite is reasonable mind, which is too logical. And I think that we all must strive for the combination, wise mind.
I have experienced trauma yet didn't admit that I truly needed therapy. As others have written, there is power in sharing your story with people who have had similar experiences (or with an empathetic therapist).
But I was in denial, so my suppressed feelings then burst out with much more intensity. There is an astute Buddhist saying: "Three things cannot remain long hidden; the sun, the moon, and the truth."
Another expression that resonates with me: "What are the three hardest words in the English language for a man to say? The answer is not I love you. It's I need help!"
Barry Hantman
I love that Buddhist saying so much—it's so true. Also it seems like what you're pointing to is the middle way, which is also very Buddhist. Thank you for these insights, Barry. It can feel daunting to tell our stories, it can make us feel so vulnerable, like we're letting down our guard. But once you do, it's such a relief, and you realize it's what gives you the power to move forward. Sending love <3
Thank you for sharing this, and for your kind words about the book. I'm always amazed at how sharing our stories connects us, even when the details are different. So glad you're here, and sending love <3