Self-love
Fellow Climate Warriors,
Another quick personal note here as I prepare to embark on this wild idea of a HERE WE ARE tour. I’ve been clouded by self doubt over the past week that I may have bitten off too much while dealing with the recurring waves of personal stuff. The only things keeping me sane are daily check-ins and meditation. I come back to the belief that as long as I have positive intentions and give it my all, everything will work out—at least what will happen, will happen. That being said, a massive thank you to those of you who have had a collaborative spirit throughout this journey so far—you know who you are—and you’re why humanity will solve climate change. I received the nudge below from Hoffman yesterday—talk about great timing for a self-love reminder—and wanted to share it with you all because I know I’m not the only one out there struggling these days—and the effectiveness of the action step below can’t be understated:
Most of us have been deeply conditioned to patterns of self-abandonment, of withholding love and care from ourselves. So often in life, when we are in pain or upset of some kind, we move away from our self. Perhaps we distract, ignore, shut down, or scold our self for the feelings we are having.
Self-compassion and self-love, recognizing our own worthiness and beauty, is at the root of our healing process. Even the smallest gesture of kindness, even the intention of kindness, can dramatically change your biochemistry and your sense of who you are.
At times, you may find your Emotional Self has regressed back to a frightened, angry, sad, or wounded child. You can imagine holding and comforting that child like the most loving of parents. Our Spiritual Self is, by nature, deeply loving and compassionate, and can comfort and listen. As the Sufi poet, Rumi, says, “Don’t turn away, keep your gaze on the bandage place, that’s where the light enters you.”
Today’s action step: Take a moment and place your hands on your heart, become present to yourself, feel the warmth of your touch, then gently and kindly speak to yourself using the phrases below (adapted from John Wellwood):
May I feel loved
May I know that I am held in love
May I know that love is my intrinsic nature May I know that I am love, loving, and loveable
See you soon.
Much love,
Matthew
Hi Matthew - thank you for sharing so vulnerably and with compassion for others in the community. Choosing to work on climate, environment, and sustainability is to pursue an unusually challenging path. Please trust yourself and believe in the impact you are creating.