Hey Guys!
Recently, I read a book called “Lighter” by Yung Pueblo. I wasn’t really expecting much from this book but I was very pleasantly surprised. The book really laid out the importance of taking care of yourself and following a healing journey. I think this book would be a good read for anyone who is looking to start a healing journey but doesn’t know where to begin or someone who is looking to be a little more compassionate and loving in their daily lives. There is truly something for everyone in this book and that’s what I loved most about it.
At the end of each section of the book, there were reflection questions which I also loved. It forced you to recall and reflect upon what you just read instead of blowing through it. Often times, after thinking about these reflection questions, I’d stop reading and really try to reflect. Here are some that really stood out to me.
What was a challenge that surprised you once you started your healing journey?
To be honest, I thought that the healing journey would have moved at a quicker pace. I am finding that healing takes a LOT of work and a LOT of time. Repetitive motions and positive thoughts are what keep you moving forward. This isn’t always easy and definitely doesn’t go perfectly everyday. Healing is a one day at a time, one foot in front of the other kind of thing. It certainly makes sense though. All of these negative thoughts and fears build up over time — why would breaking them down, analyzing them, and correcting them happen overnight?
Can you remember a time since your healing journey began when you were proud of the way you handled a tough situation? How was the way you handled it different from how you would have in the past?
Overall, I’ve noticed myself being less defensive and reactive in conversations or arguments. I honestly thought this would NEVER happen. HA! For as long as I can remember, I’ve been sarcastic and defensive in all arguments. Lately, I find myself trying to really listen to the other person instead of just thinking of a witty comeback. Maybe there’s something I’m missing that is making this person so upset? Maybe this person needs compassion instead of an argument. Hearing someone talk and actually listening to what someone is saying are two totally different things. I’ve been working on and will continue to work on *listening* instead of just hearing and responding.
How have your preferences changed since your journey began? Have you had any trouble letting go of the old you?
This one was tricky to navigate. I always kind of felt like my personality was one way and that’s the role I had to fill. During this short yet eye-opening journey, I’ve learned that I can wake up and do and be whoever I want to be that day (to an extent of course, I do have responsibilities *ahem* children to take care of). But in regards to growth, I learned that everyday you wake up as a new version of you and only YOU have the power to decide what that version is going to look like. It has not been easy at all, but I’m finally putting in the work to pull myself out of these negative head spaces that have consumed me day in and day out for months. In a nurturing way of course, I’m able to say, “get the hell out” to the negative and consuming thoughts that have already taken so much of my precious time.
What are some old pieces of wisdom that used to serve you well but do not quite fit your life at this moment?
Something I used to hide behind was, “this too shall pass”. While I know that storms do come and they will pass, I used to hide behind this in a way that wasn’t productive. I would just wait things out until they went away. This probably started when I was around 15 years old. Fast forward 16 years, and I just ignored and suppressed a bunch of stuff that is now wreaking havoc on my life. I was always just waiting for things to go away instead of acknowledging them and working through them. It’s important to be able to feel your feelings, acknowledge that they are there, but not live in that space. That is the hardest part for me, not living in those spaces and pulling myself out.
We are ALL a work in progress whether you want to admit it or not. We’re all making changes (hopefully for the better) and that is one thing that will never change. If you guys don’t know where to start on your healing journey, I would suggest reading “Lighter” by Yung Pueblo. It was an easy to read book and a perfect way to get started. I also encourage you to try to be more reflective. Whenever you exhibit a behavior that doesn’t sit well with you, think about where it’s coming from. Start to look for the root of these things and you’ll unfold a mountain of understanding toward yourself.
Keep healing
-A