There was a time when a typical exchange with a friend might be, “How are you doing?” My response would be something like, “Good…I’m feeling fine, or I’m OK, how are you”? Although I made an effort to reach out, I did not experience a meaningful connection with that person or with myself.
Much has changed since then, but this reflection reminds me of why I have become passionate about my journey of discovering the power of feelings and how it is the bedrock of lasting transformative change. I have had the joy and privilege to pass on this awareness to my clients at the Center for Christian Life Enrichment (CLE). Come along with me on this journey.
I have noticed that clients come in with a problem that they hope I can help them fix. Initially, their motivation is to “feel better.” We might spend some time on their identified issue, yet I seek to pass on to them a more sustaining and satisfying vision for change, which goes beyond simply “fixing a problem.”
I have found that learning to identify and express my feelings moves me towards the illuminating journey of connecting to myself on a heart (process) level. Awareness of our feelings points us towards our inner emotional hungers and yearnings. As you are better connected to yourself, you will discover how to communicate in a more meaningful way to the people in your life. Thus, clients who hope I will help them “fix their problem” are pleasantly surprised to find that the fix is often hidden within themselves. As they learn to express their feelings, they learn what is needed to create the life they want. Connecting on this transformative level sets in motion, our God-given wiring to create the satisfying relationships we long for.
Whether this is a new thought or something you have discovered and seek to practice, come join us at CLE and be on the journey of learning how you can be your most heart-filled and alive self. Remember, you don’t need to do life alone–we can always accomplish much more in community.
Contact me to set up a session at Nancy.rollins@cle.us.com or call me at 224-217-0279.