The idea that everyone is unique and brings value is basic but rarely actualized. Everyone is unique and brings value. I have been attending an acting training every Saturday morning and it has become my sanctuary. I have learned so much about how to treat people in the last six weeks. I am blown away by how much more beautiful the world can be when you change the filter.
In the workshop, complete trust is required by all that participate or the exercises will fail. To be able to accomplish the work everyone has to feel safe. I don't even know these people and yet there is such a feeling of respect, a love for our discipline that spills out of us and spreads across the floor, soon we are all connected. We get into awkward positions, make strange noises and when we are finished are so satisfied. (Stop it.) What I really want to express is the feeling of worth that is endowed upon each person in that room. No two people think alike and it is such a beautiful thing that we so rarely get to see. It's unfortunate how much we seek to fit in and conform. How often are you applauded for making the most interesting shape with your body? How about encouraged to continue spewing stream-of-conscientiousness garble while others are trying to work? Or being complimented on how you helped provide different levels, that were so appealing to the audience, because at just the precise moment you crawled across the floor? To be unguarded and vulnerable is so rewarding. To know what you offer makes a difference and brings joy is priceless. Generosity and kindness are no respecter of persons in this class. It is truly an amazing experience.
However, we don't live in the world of Viewpoints. The world we live in is much less rosey and much more fifty different shades of grey. (What is wrong with you?) Wouldn't it be nice if we had the time to validate each person's feelings and then thoughtfully move on to an appropriate plan of action void of any negative residual? Or what if we were as invested in another's well being as much as our own? What if we truly saw each person's endeavors as worthwhile whether we agreed with them or not?
And onto the children. While driving back to Star last Saturday morning, I figured out what type of mom I want to be. I want to be the kind of mom that makes my kids feel good about themselves. I want them to remember me listening to them intently not halfheartedly. I want them to know I value them regardless of their choices.
That night I had a moment with one of the boys. I sat on his bed and got a run down of how the Lego car he had built came to fruition from the initial design thru all the revisions and why it is still so incredible that it can balance. I made funny faces with him. I tucked him in tight and gave him a kiss good night. Having made a connection with one of our kids, I went to bed accomplished. I really just want them to know Mom's arms are a safe place. And no matter what they are valued, especially when they are doing something unique.
