A couple weeks ago I wrote an entry called, “Preparation.” It described the steps necessary to increase one’s capacity for receiving, containing, and expressing spiritual energy. One of these steps is to get some healthy distance from toxic people who might otherwise impede our growth. I was asked to expand on this point.
We develop ways of interacting with others at a very young age. Some of these patterns are healthy and support our growth, while others undermine our development. The first step is to become aware of any interactions with others that leave you feeling wilted, deflated, or agitated. Once you are aware, it is time to take responsibility for your contribution to the dynamic and change it.
Some people in your life will support your growth and honor your new boundaries or ways of communicating, others will not. Our job is to express our needs to everyone in our lives. If they are unwilling to respect these needs, the appropriate choice is to back up a little. Sometimes it’s simply talking less or talking about less intimate subjects. Other times it involves ending a relationship completely.
Every relationship challenge is an opportunity for growth, so NEVER throw one away without learning your lesson first – otherwise you’ll attract the same thing over and over…
As you take care of yourself the way a mother would protect her baby, you create the space and security necessary for growth to occur.