Life
Voices of Female Celebrities on Body Image
Over the last twenty-five years or so, my attention has been drawn to the issues and challenges of those with eating disorders and the possible sources of their existence in modern American culture. I have experienced countless friends, colleagues, and clients who have been in various stages of the disease and recovery from disordered eating. We have learned a lot since then, and we have a better understanding of treatment, support, and the probable cause of these issues.
One would have been to be very naïve to not include female body image issues as a major cause and root of the widespread problem that hits many young women and adults. It is less common, but men are not exempt. I am focusing just on women for this particular discussion, specifically female celebrities and their influence on young women and their body images....
Providence Spiritual Life Coaching – Helping, Fixing or Serving?
I recently read an incredible article in Shambala Sun titled Helping, Fixing or Serving? by Rachel Naomi Remen. This article inspired an opportunity to reflect on the differences between helping, fixing, or serving. As a Providence Holistic Counselor, the distinctions are important and valuable in my work.
During periods of my life when I received support from professionals in the Mental Health and Spiritual Communities, I was fortunate to be directed to people who wanted my best interest first. The way they interacted with and guided me was clear. I somehow knew this, even from those I paid for their services. I think we can feel at a deeper level when we are served than when we are being helped or fixed by someone. ...
The Art of Knowing is Knowing What to Ignore
"The art of knowing is knowing what to ignore" Rumi
I saw this posted recently by a friend on Facebook, yes Facebook. Again, from Rumi, "The art of knowing is knowing what to ignore." I appreciate the simplicity of this illustration and how it depicts the lens we each view life, and what we see or do not see....
Spiritual Change: Tie Your Shoes Differently
It was 1989, and I was feeling ready for life to move forward for me after a series of very challenging years. I asked an old friend named Bill, while sharing thoughts on life and spiritual growth, “What do I need to do to begin the process of change in my life in a profound way?” Bill was one of the most trusted and supportive men in my life when I was beginning this process of spiritual development. He was a wise, gentle, and loving person who made a great life for himself after a messy beginning. You could always count on “Old Bill” to offer a warm hug and caring advice. At this point in my life, I did not trust many people and took even less advice. Asking for help was not one of my strengths....
Spiritual Teachings on Smiling – The Janitor: Part II
I began working with the Urban League of Greater Madison in October of 2003 as a Social Worker serving adolescents' mental, emotional, social, cultural, and academic needs of the student population in Madison, Wisconsin. I loved the work and the kids.
Spiritual Teachings on Smiling and Humility
After being at the school for a little while, I began to build a relationship with one of the janitors. His name is Oscar, and he is a beautiful man born and raised in Costa Rica. He has a dark complexion often seen on the Caribbean Coast of Costa Rican with a graying beard, sideburns, and short, wavy, balding hair. He typically wears bright-colored T-shirts. Oscar’s brown eyes are full and deep. He moved to the States as an adult several years ago. He is friendly in such a warm and genuine way that it is hard not to want to be around him. His smile beams greater than almost anyone I’ve ever seen, radiating the hallway during casual conversation. Oscar always finds a minute to engage in brief interactions, each filled with his presence and sweetness. ...Spiritual Training in Humility: The Janitor Part I
“Pride is concerned with who is right. Humility is concerned with what is right.” Ezra Taft Benson
