“Transform yourself to transform the world.”
– Grace Lee Boggs by way of adrienne maree brown
We use a lot of external markers to show progress in our society. I’ve really been thinking about traditional relationship markers: getting together, declaring exclusivity, then a ring, a wedding, buying a house, 2.5 kids (maybe a pooch or cat in there), and… retirement. When we let society dictate the markers, we forget to bring in the important markers our souls need. We don’t examine our own markers required by our hearts for a life well lived. Often, these are not in the tangible things we procure. They are in the relationships, the communities, and the legacies left behind. They require deep, personal work. It requires us really knowing and understanding our values and choosing work, relationships, and service that’s in line with those values. It requires looking at our shadow selves and learning to compassionately be with the parts of ourselves we don’t like, so that we can be with others in all their glory. The biggest gift that you could receive and give in this world is your own transformation. Do your internal work. It is then that you’ll have even more to give.
These Soulful Sunday blogs go out weekly on Sundays to be used as a place to step back from the hustle and bustle and explore what your soul might be saying to you. Some folks use these as journal prompts and let loose amidst pages. Some folks bring them to the kitchen table and jam over coffee. Do you, boo.
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