Calling for an Anti-Protectionist Strategy to Go with Rhetoric

03/16/12 at 04:03 pm

Really nice article Karen- I cautiprlarly love what an open forum you make. If I were to put my gut into words, I think the answer as to whether believing in other people is a gift or a talent is two parts. The first comes right from the mantra atop your site- wake up to the amazing you . I think self-actualization is the most exciting part about being human; that I can not only hear the call to my own greatness and possibility, but work to heed that call. Its obvious from your writing talent that you've already taken that mantle up in stride- but the transition from your own hearing to heeding was probably facilitated by your belief that you COULD. Belief is usually the gas in my engine too- its amazing what that kind of faith can inspire.Now, if that logic rings true, than believing in other people indicates two more things to me: First, when I believe in other people, there's usually a motive, a why, that's either internal (believing in them as a projection of something I need to believe in more in ME) or external (seeing evidence of their goodness that they may truly not see). If its internal, I try to figure out if the reason. Why do I want so badly for so-and-so to step it up? Is there something I'm overlooking in myself that needs a little love? If, however, it really is just a resonance I feel, or even a Hey! I've been there- and I did it! kinship, I try to move forward with clarity. All of those things though- that introspection? Such a gift! But now, part two! I feel like whether that journey from hearing to heeding lies in me or in someone else, the gift becomes a TALENT when it's worked on. I think talent, by definition, is something practiced, of pure intent and dedicated focus, for my betterment or the betterment of those I love (which, still, betters me). So when I recognize a potential gift, and develop a system that works for me, I find I get faster and faster at polishing those gemstones I've found on the path. Once I develop that talent, I feel like the next step in actualization is helping other people to find their own gemstones- but any need to do so before is probably the mote in my own eye itching. I think the evidence I have my own work to do first is usually shown in my approach. If I'm simply pointing gems out, that's superiority because of my own inferiority, if I've latched too much on to hope without action, I'm likely hoping for someone else to come along and scoop up ME.I think Ghandi and all the other graceful leaders really wrote the page here- the gift that lies beyond the talent is in walking with your talents in arm for all to see, to learn from as they see fit as THEY self-actualize. Remember G-Stars march to the sea? He was 60 years old and fasting with more non-believers at the start of his walk. By the time he picked up the first chunk of salt, he had more followers than any other leader in the world- and just by walking tall. I guess this one really hits home for me. I try to always consider myself a work in progress, and I have good days and bad, but pushing' others because I see their potential greatness' or falling in love because I see the real (you) that (you) can't even see!' has always been my quicksand. I'm growing more aware of projections like these, as well as other signposts to the self-love I'm seeing as I dig for my own gemstones. But in learning to turn believing in yourself into a gift, by developing your talent for it the right way, and by acknowledging why you see that shine in others when you do, I think it's a real affirmation of what it means to be alive and a great step towards the final evolution- the gift of believing in others AS you do yourself. Or as you much more keenly put it- being awake Thanks for the uplifting read!

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