It is easy to think of gender as separating or identifying us. Sometimes gender can create differences in identities. Gender plays a role in many aspects of our lives, and on a broad spectrum. Often, these roles are difficult to see unless we look deeper. Gender can encourage us to act one way while discouraging us from expressing ourselves another way. Gender is part of our social and political landscape. The social revolution in the Sixties had gender at the core of the equal rights movement. Today, we are experiencing another significant wave of motion toward equality for all of us. This movement inspires and energizes some people; others feel demonized and lost. Together, we can navigate through this period of change through respect and connection.
I am aware that many people do not feel like gender plays an important role in their daily lives. Our collective programming tells us that men are “this” and women are “that”. This type of cultural programming creates differing opportunities and imbalances of power and safety. These imbalances have manifested as violence, disconnection, wealth, health, resentment, bitterness, anger, and exploitation in our relationships. These social roles decide who gets to smile and who gets to cry, who can safely express desire and sexuality, and who has to hide or repress these, and many other emotions. Only about one hundred years ago, women were not allowed to vote. I invite you to breathe that in for a minute. Women were allowed to bear and raise children, but not to vote.
As we navigate uncharted cultural territory, we all face questions and challenges. Many do not feel safe asking questions or expressing their concerns, fearing how others may respond. This is normal and makes complete sense, but it can, unfortunately, lead to issues such as fear, confusion, and distrust. We all want healthy and safe relationships in our homes, social circles, communities, schools, and workplaces. This is where we can make connections and build positive relationships. We want to feel a sense of belonging, value, and acceptance. Gender has a significant impact on how we fulfill these basic needs. Everybody deserves to feel approved, accepted, and safe.
“I have been working with Michael for six months, and I can’t fully explain how much my life has changed. I was feeling desperate in nearly every aspect of my life and I knew that I was ready for a significant spiritual shift. During our first session, I liked him immediately but I’ve rarely felt so much fear at one time. I think it was a sign that I had begun down a path that I could not reverse. I saw him every week for about four months and, after moving out of state two months ago, have continued to work with him in staying on track. To say that Michael “gets me” is an understatement. He has the most profound ability to know you and make you feel safe. Without that, I never would have gotten as far as I have. I have since become increasingly trusting of myself and my intuition, so as to make more fulfilling life decisions. I’m thankful for his guidance every day.” Jessica W
- Growing Together Personal & Spiritual Development Group (Online)!
Come Join The Circle! What are we doing? We are a group of people discussing our honest feelings on safety, trauma, healing, boundaries, connection, relationships, drugs, love, sex, money, mental health, wellbeing, gender, race, culture, and work, or whatever feels alive for us. Basically, being human. We’ll pick a topic, trade stories, have a moderated discussion, and start and close the group with meditation or… - Second Degree Reiki Training on March 30 & 31, 2026!
I am excited to offer a Second Degree Reiki Training on March 30 & 31, 2026, from 1:00 – 6:00! Anyone who has completed First Degree Reiki Training (Reiki Level One) is invited to participate and move to the next level in your practice. This Reiki Training will be located in North Kingstown, RI. - First Degree Reiki Training March 21 & 22, 2026!
A Special First Degree Reiki Training on Saturday and Sunday, March 21 & 22, 2026, from 1:00-6:00. First Degree Traditional Usui Reiki Training is where all new Reiki students begin their Reiki Training. In this class, students receive all four First Degree Reiki Attunements, practice sharing and receiving Reiki, and are ready to share Reiki with friends, family, and emergencies. - We Need Friends Of All Genders, Especially When Partnered
I am an adult. As an adult, I want and need friends. We need friends from all genders, especially when partnered. It is 2026, and we know we need people and connections to survive and thrive in the world today. Couples were never meant to do this alone. Why would we want to put this much pressure and burden on one person? At some point,… - Walking for Peace: Monks, Mystics and Michaels
In response to the Tibetan Monks Walking for Peace, I wrote a reflection on my experiences with monks, walking for peace, and non-violent protest. “In 1995, I received Reiki training for the first time. During the training, I received a message to leave the job that I loved working with kids and families in crisis, my home by a brook, give everything I had away,… - Reedsy Discovery Book ReviewHere is the Reedsy Discovery Book Review submitted on December 14, 2024. Loved it! ? Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Heavy, raw, emotional and vulnerable, but ultimately inspiring and hopeful
