“The only journey is the journey within.” (Rilke)
Give to others what you need the most! This simple truth is like Ariadne’s thread leading me through storm, conflict, or choice.
Obviously, none of us received much attention in my large, Irish, catholic, very dysfunctional family of ten, unless it was negative. I was never good at clamouring for a few scraps. Only the loudest voices were heard, the bullying, violent or hysterical. I spent my childhood reasoning with ogres, being diminished by screams of, “Look at me, look at me! I’m much more important than you.”
I carried my yearning to be seen and valued out into the world. The more I needed recognition, the more it eluded me. This constant ache clawed at my soul. I could either remain a victim of my family’s madness, thereby, allowing it to define me, or I could try something else.
Something else ~ what might that be? As a child, I was aware of a light within me. I also had a powerful imagination that enabled me to escape my harsh, everyday life and find solace by exploring other realities. As I grew, I was able to make the journey within ~ to shadow realms where I came face-to-face with all that I am ~ light as well as dark. Among other family members, I met my father within me ~ the violent, raging, frustrated spirit, which in him was so misdirected, and which later became my best friend.
As a starting point, I decided to give to others what I could not have myself, whether a kind word, or recognition of talent. This changed the course of my life from needer to giver. I became a healer, a Doctor of Psychotherapy, a social entrepreneur, an environmental campaigner. I travelled to Africa during the war-torn nineties, where I was fortunate enough to work for Oxfam, UNICEF, and World Food Programme. I lived among those who gave their all with true modesty. The spirit of giving was the mucilage that held Aid and Development teams together. We were free to open our hearts to those much less fortunate than ourselves. I was happy then.
These days, I write children’s books in celebration of the brilliance of childhood imagination. A well-developed imagination can literally save us from all manner of tragedies. So, here’s to childhood imagination!
I write other stuff too ~ self-help/spiritual psychology for all the adult, wounded children out there. After all, the greatest journey is the one we make within, into the deepest recesses of our soul-world. It’s wondrous what we find there ~ all manner of insights that help us not to pass on negative, destructive bloodline issues to the beautiful future. So, here’s to all of you who overcome against all the odds. I wish you all a fulfilling 2014!
Childhood imagination is a powerful thing. And, I think I think the saving grace for so many kids. Thank you for sharing. It’s your past that sent you searching withing. I agree that the journey within and knowing the self as one with all life, is the most important journey. Very lovely post. I hope your 2014 is one of inner fulfillment.
LikeLike
Thank you, dear Patricia. You too! Have a great New Year in every way.
LikeLike
Beautifully written, Niamh! As a recently widowed woman, I’ve found that one of my practical needs is for help with internal combustion engines. I have learned to change the oil, the fuel filter, and the air cleaner on my riding lawnmower. Next, I’m taking a course on DVD on basic auto mechanics so I can learn to maintain (possibly even repair) my car. When I get comfortable with my abilities, I’ll be offering help to my girlfriends and others — giving to others what I need. It’s a beautiful concept. Thank you for sharing your insights.
LikeLike
It sometimes changes the course os a life. Thank you, Deborah.
LikeLike
Such a beautiful and insightful post…it really spoke to me. It’s difficult to be the odd one out in a world of ‘gimme, gimme, look at me, look at me’ when we are built for inner journeys. I would love to share your post on my new website if that’s okay with you.
LikeLike
Miss Min, thank you for your comments. It is more than alright. 🙂
LikeLike
Well written, and said. This gives me something to think about – giving others what I need. Important point!
LikeLike
Thank you, Erik! This is a lot for a young man to take in!
LikeLike
The world is a better place because of individuals like yourself who turn negative situations into positive actions. If only there were more like you. I wish you and your family a fabulous 2014 full of much love and many joys. I wish you continued success with your wonderful little books.
LikeLike
Darlene, that is a really lovely message. I wish you and yours a wonderful 2014 also.
LikeLike