Gender

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 allow ourselves to 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 move through the uncharted cultural territory, we all have 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 circle, community, school, and places of work. This is where we can make connections and build positive relationships. We want to feel a sense of belonging, value, and acceptance. Gender has an incredible impact on how we can 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