Do you think you have been abused in your life? No? Well, read on. Most of us have developed a high tolerance for what I call wacky abuse. We're becoming accustomed these days to using the word "abuse," although for many it is still an uncomfortable term. Many of us believe abuse is a normal part of child rearing. In fact, let's consider that term, child rearing. Some parents view their … [Read more...]
Setting free your inner child
In everyone's subconscious there is an abiding world. It is a place where our essential creative treasures lie and where all of the memories, experiences, and emotions that belong to our unique selves are stored. It is important, however, not to presume that everyone is aware of, or connected to, him or herself, and that not everyone is mindful of both an outer and an inner world. Often, … [Read more...]
The child as adult: a balancing act
In a wonderful world we have balance. We achieve balance with the presence of two structures. 1. The outer world: The love of our family, the value of our jobs, our responsibilities, our important relationships and our not-so-important relationships. The outward important manifestation of our daily lives. 2. The inner world, which possesses and reflects our creative lives. Also our … [Read more...]
A teen can be your greatest teacher
Treat your children and teens with compassion, and take what they have to say seriously. Admit and come to terms with the fact that your children feel pain and loneliness and shame more than you know. Realize that you have been instrumental in creating their pain and loneliness -- not entirely responsible, but you certainly have contributed. You have a shadow too, one that was created as a … [Read more...]
Helping teens cross the great divide
Contrary to belief, teenagers suffer from a great deal of loneliness and confusion. They need the guidance, love and support of parents as well as older neighbors and friends. Erik Erikson identified this developmental stage as "identity vs. role confusion," explaining why we often see teens experimenting with new ways of communicating -- clothing styles, music, creativity and offbeat … [Read more...]