Blurbs
We act as a mirror to others by the way we treat the them. Especially for people who hold power, what is left unsaid, our actions, could pass messages about how we value the humanity, dignity and worth of a friend, child, junior, student, peer or neighbor. Our mirrors can be tarnished: does it require some TLC or some critical reflection polishing? Who gave you trust and believed in you? Who made you feel safe and confident to pursue your goals and takes steps to give practical help and time?
A couple of months ago, my boss linked me up with Felicia who worked with elderly in the community (Cluster Support/CREST). She invited her colleague Eng Fong. Our interns Rachel, Louisa and new staff Fadilah joined us. I've done TOL many times but wondered how this intergenerational group would come together. In brief, the group created their trees, shared it with the group, and wrote letters to each other (new worker->seasoned worker->new worker) and read them out in a touching ceremony.
The letter to them below and some of their thoughts lets you into a very special exchange.
Dear all,
Thank you so much for your full participation, your steps in openness and generosity in sharing your heart and stories gave rise to so many beautiful moments, in the Oasis room as well as in my Imagination. I really appreciated meeting other workers from THK which are working so hard for the community. Really liked the camaraderie!
Exchange between younger workers and senior workers
This tree of life turned out to be an intergenerational exchange of young workers and senior workers and I really appreciated how you all were moved by each other's words and how those words could make a difference to you or your future. 😭 The ideas that were churned out to deal with the Storm of Life (illness, funding, etc) was really thoughtful for me. The stories of family togetherness, intentional and purposeful care and positive regard and support of the significant people and community was so moving.
I was just so blown away today. Thank you again for this meaningful time spent with you! Thanks Kumar for suggesting the younger ones to join. I will forward you guys some readings about exchanging documents :)
Warmly,
Liz
Narrative Practitioners are a diverse group, and here are some of my friends you may like to work with!
Unveiled Stories Online Counselling - Nicole Hind
Looking at problems through a narrative therapeutic lens can uniquely and creatively assist to resolve them. You are the expert in your own life- I can help you unveil your own stories that empower instead of paralyse. To unstick from terrible memories or challenging situations, to heal in ways most helpful to you, to make changes that YOU want. Additionally, online counselling can be arranged privately at times and with methods of communication- talking or writing- that suit you anywhere in Australia and abroad. I can also provide professional supervision.
Contact me: unveiledstories@gmail.com for a FREE brief consultation or email exchange to find out more about how I can help you.
Ben Elan - Narrative Counseling and Classical Chinese Medicine
Helping people come into physical and emotional health using Narrative Counseling and Classical Chinese Medicine.
Contact Ben here: https://www.facebook.com/BiopsychosocialMedicine/
