Under the Umbrella: Compassion Fatigue + Noticing Narrative
We are standing under the umbrella with others.
Whether it's to shade from the intense sun
Or protection from the fierce storm.
We are under the umbrella together. At peace.
Sometimes, folks can hold the umbrella on their own. Sometimes we hold it for them.
Standing together under the umbrella.
When I recognize that I am holding the umbrella handle longer than I can tollerate, that's when I use the RAIN of Self Comassion model. Whether it's sparkles of sunshine or sprinkles of water, we are choosing how to respond rather than react. I slow down to listen with curiosity.
When I practice RAIN with others, it is often by coaching them past a story and towards a timeless truth. When I practice RAIN for myself, I'm reconnecting to my very presence. What is the story within this storm? The structure of the storm story is often one of lack; not enough energy, time or resources. We might internalize that story as part of our own narrative- we are lacking, inadequate, not good enough. Yet beyond the story of this storm is the limitless open sky. Sun appears and disappears to take turns with the moon. Life around us changes and so can the stories we live with and learn from. The timeless truth that emerges as we stand under the umbrella and practice the RAIN of Self Compassion is that we are as limitless as the sky. Connecting to truth beyond story opens our hearts, energizes our minds and heals our bodies.
Focus on the story, and I focus on the storm. I grip the umbrella tighter, I feel tenser. Yet, the storm is merely a weather condition. It is around me, not in me. Inside I release the tightness and delight in an internal quiet calm.
May we all reconnect to the calm beyond the storm:
R: Recognize what you are thinking and feeling (name it to tame it!)
A: Allow your body to be just as it is in this moment
I: Investigate with care and concern, what is going on inside us?
N: Nurture and Nourish- what is the next smallest act of kindness you can offer yourself?
Shake that umbrella off, let the sun shine, let the raindrops fall and enjoy your reflective and brilliant life!
