HOW DO I WANT TO SHOW UP?
I am in the process of sorting out my life because we are moving. I have hung on to treasures that are connected to old relationships, old times, and old ways. And yet all these ‘treasures’ are from my past.
Since last week’s election, my inner fear shot off like a rocket. I was raised in a fear-based household so I am familiar with fear. I have lived my life feeling fear and taking chances, jumping off many proverbial cliffs only to find I can land on my feet. I trust I will find my footing again.
Add into the mix, moving, I feel fear and freedom at the same time. Sitting in familiar silence grounds me and I can relax. Silence holds comfort, space, familiarity, and acceptance. Sitting in silence helps me breathe and remember I am okay. In silence I can let go.
I recently connected with a UU community in Cedar Park, Texas. This UU community is unambiguously, unapologetically progressive in the red state of Texas. They live and preach what they believe, with a Covenant that affirms it is welcoming, vibrant, and a caring community for all ages. What an inspiration!
The minister asks in her online weekly check-in, “How Do I Want to Show Up?” I know how I do not want to show up. I know how I do not want to live.
I feel better when I do service, helping others in times of struggle, always remembering to take care of myself first so I can show up for others.
The Minister recently shared: “On Friday, I wanted to show up … well, mean. Mad. Not with anyone I know, mind you. But out in public. At the grocery store, at the gym. I relaxed into a scowl that didn’t move. Especially toward those who I suspected voted against the rights of my loved ones.”
“But I am committing myself to be softer, to move through my day without assuming the worst of everyone whose path I cross. To open my heart to the stranger. To listen first. And to be helpful where I can, even if it’s just talking to people about exercise, socks, and curls.”
How do I want to show up?
I am committed to love myself. I am committed to helping others. I am committed to modeling behavior with the choices I make in my life. I am committed.
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