The Hard Work of Self-Confrontation

So far this blog has just been a bundle of optimism! Rethink loneliness I suggested! Don’t run from suffering! What pain are you avoiding? I inquired. These are the words people seeking maturity and wisdom need to hear. They are not easy words. But they are necessary words.

We will not heal as a nation, we will not unify as a people, we will not deny our baser instincts, unless a few of us are willing to do the hard work of self-confrontation. So. In order to do this work, we need to find a sanctuary.

I cannot tell you what your sanctuary looks like or where to find it. But I can tell you my understanding of the concept.

“Sanctuary is finding a place to regain our bearings, reclaim our soul, heal our wounds and return to the world as a wounded healer. It’s not merely about finding shelter from the story - it’s about spiritual survival and the capacity to carry on.”

Parker Palmer

My sanctuary is mostly solitary, but when necessary, I have trusted mentors who I ask to join me. I do this by inviting them to hear my story. I share my pain. I tell them the things I hope no one ever knows about me, because these truths embarrass me. I’ve made some whopper mistakes when it comes to trusting people but for the most part, as I age, I get a bit better at finding trustworthy mentors.

May we find sanctuary, one and all!