Share your story in the circle of love

At a time like this, when our Sonoma/Napa/Mendocino communities have been devastated by fires, it’s hard to know what to think, do, or feel. My house was spared, but so many others weren’t. People lost homes, animals, and family members, and we all lost wildlife and wildlands. How can I hold sorrow and grief for others while practicing gratitude for my own life? What do I say? What can I offer? And this, especially, is my personal dilemma: How can I support all of you as your teacher and guide when I feel shaky, sad, conflicted, and traumatized, too? 

We are all part of the circle of love

It has taken me all week to gather myself, but what I do know is that we are all part of the same family. We are all one with every living being. So of course I will feel everything. I will feel sadness and loss, comfort and hope, tragic endings and new beginning. We are all feeling everything, regardless of whether or not our homes are still standing. Of course we are. This has affected all of us, because we are all connected. We are all part of this circle of love. 

Everyone has a story

Here’s a picture I snapped on Saturday while going for a walk with friends. It might have been any weekend on a Sonoma County trail, but the smoke was thick as fires continued to burn uncontrolled throughout the North Bay. One of these women lost her home on the first night of the fire. Another has been evacuated for seven days and waits to see if her home will survive. A third offered emergency shelter for five — fire refugees in her own home. I was there to love and support them all.

It helps to connect with others

During my walk with friends, we all had a chance to talk about what happened, what we did, what we’re dealing with now, and most importantly, what we are feeling. Connecting with others can do so much good for everyone. Sharing your story, having people listen deeply, and knowing that you are heard, held, and loved for exactly where you are at any given moment can be very healing. Quite simply, it always feels better to talk about it.  

It’s okay to show up just the way you are

In sharing with others, I’ve realized that I don’t have to be the perfect teacher and guide. I don’t have to be completely strong and grounded and together and back to normal before I can hold another circle. I just have to show up. I just have to love you. And that’s easy, because I already do. So if you want to share your story with me, just show up exactly the way you are. We are all connected, and we are all part of this circle of love. 

How are you showing up in your life?

I’d love to hear from you.