The Gift of Connected, Courageous Conversations

I’ve learned throughout the years that what’s happening in my outside world, is often (if not always), a reflection of what’s going on in my inner life.

I’ve also learned to pay attention to the messages and reflect on the lessons being offered.  In the past, if I haven’t listened, I was presented with an even bigger lesson, warning sign or wake up call.  It’s not always a 2×4 knock over the head, but often the consequences are greater and require a bigger “recovery period.”

As of late, one of the opportunities that keeps coming my way is I find myself being drawn to have courageous conversations.  You know the type that you’d rather avoid at all costs.  Most of them feel uneasy and scary.  All of them have a certain degree of discomfort.

I grew up in an environment where I learned to act happy. My feelings of anger and sadness were uncomfortable and having a conversation could lead to a confrontation.  I often stayed quiet in my quest to act happy….struggling within to find the answers and solutions versus getting support or just feeling safe talking it out.

I also suffered (& still do at times) from being too hard on myself and making myself the bad girl or responsible one (any one relate?).

As this holiday season rolled around, I found myself having a deep desire to connect more from the heart with the people I am blessed to spend time with.  I made a commitment to myself to Soul Play with giving the gift of having courageous conversations. Some of these conversations require digging deep within to muster the courage to speak my truth in hopes of banishing the elephant in the room (unfinished business).  The one we can all feel but don’t usually talk about.

download-1Other conversations require me to be willing to be vulnerable and let someone know just how much they mean to me.  All of the conversations require me to listen to and trust my heart and to be emotionally connected….first to myself and then another.

I find myself feeling uncomfortable as I write this because of my old pattern of attempting to act happy or be positive instead of allowing myself to embrace my true feelings.  This is me having a connected, courageous conversation with you.

I always say “the truth heals.”  Having a connected, courageous conversation not only clears the air, but it also shifts the energy and allows for a deeper level of intimacy.  It creates more space in your body, mind and spirit.

My personal guidelines for Soul Playing with having a connected, courageous conversation are approaching it with Truth, Simplicity, and Love.  I breathe deeply into my heart, ground and center myself, and set a clear intention.

My intention is to give the gift of myself…the gift of communication, tenderness, undivided attention, heart connection, gratitude, peaceful surroundings, wonder and joy.

This time of year (and especially the Winter Solstice this Thursday), is about going inside, getting quiet and listening.   It’s also about gathering with friends and family, sharing memories and creating new beginnings.

In the spirit of this season, I invite you to give the gift of yourself by having connected, courageous conversations with people.  This is truly a gift that keeps on giving.

Please enjoy my complimentary gift of a Winter Solstice Ritual to honor and connect you to your amazing spirit within, and have more ease, joy, and gratitude this holiday season.

With connection and courage,


This is dedicated to my mother- in- law Helen Podvia Perry who loved to read my blogs.

 

1921-2017

Thank you Helen for the gift of knowing you and for all of the connected and courageous conversations we shared.  I will cherish them and you always!

8 Comments on The Gift of Connected, Courageous Conversations

  1. Deborah
    December 19, 2017 at 11:30 pm (6 years ago)

    As always your words are beautifully written, thought provoking and filled with wisdom and of course wonderful guidance and with love. Thank you for sharing your heart and wisdom with us all. I am a better person for knowing you. xoxo

    Reply
    • Melanie
      April 12, 2018 at 7:39 pm (6 years ago)

      Thank you so much Deborah! Sharing our hearts and wisdom is such a gift to each other!

      Reply
  2. Jennifer
    December 27, 2017 at 7:37 pm (6 years ago)

    Thank you for speaking up on this topic, encouraging courageous conversations, one of the hardest I know for myself!! You inspire me!
    I love the tribute to Helen. What a special lady. I adore you for sharing your open heart and inspiring more rituals for us all! You are amazing! xx

    Reply
    • Melanie
      April 12, 2018 at 7:41 pm (6 years ago)

      Speaking up and using our voices is quite a journey for many of us….may YOUR courageous conversations inspire others as well!

      Reply
  3. Jennifer
    December 27, 2017 at 7:38 pm (6 years ago)

    You are so inspiring! I love the tribute to Helen. x

    Reply
    • Melanie
      April 12, 2018 at 7:42 pm (6 years ago)

      Helen was truly an inspiration to me! A fabulous listener who created a sense of safety…

      Reply
  4. Margarita
    January 31, 2018 at 2:03 am (6 years ago)

    I loved reading this. With each word I was able to relax into myself and breathe deeper. Your vulnerability and open heart inspires me to have more courageous conversations and moments. Thank you!

    Reply
    • Melanie
      May 14, 2018 at 8:15 pm (6 years ago)

      Thank you Margarita! Courageous conversations certainly take vulnerability….what a gift that is to ourselves and others. I love that you were able to relax and breathe deeper:-)

      Reply

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