Hall of Mirrors

I want to remind you of something that is experienced, but rarely talked about. As well, it is almost purposefully avoided at times.

Life has its way of placing us in unfamiliar situations, new territories and environments that stir emotions and reactions within us that we never knew existed. They have always been there quietly buried beneath the surface of grief, of trauma and pain waiting to be triggered again by moments of growth, or challenge, or unexpected change.

Many of us carry wounds and emotional imbalances from past relationships, friendships and family dynamics. And a lot of times we close off. We isolate, we tell ourselves we need time to get to “know who I am”. Yes, that’s necessary. Reflection and solitude are powerful tools, but here’s the truth. Self-discovery doesn’t only happen in isolation. It happens in the presence of others as well. We are naturally biased when it comes to ourselves. We give ourselves excuses, we overlook our patterns and we tend to soften our truths.

But others, through their words, reactions and presence become mirrors reflecting back parts of ourselves we cannot see alone nor do we want to sometimes see, to be honest. Our reflections reveal our unconscious wounds and protective patterns shaped by our past trauma.

Think of life like standing in a hall of mirrors. Each person you meet reflects a different angle of who you are. Your strengths, your insecurities, your desires and your blind spots. Some mirrors will distort, challenging you and making you uncomfortable. Others will flatter you making you feel seen and valued. Every reflection is an opportunity and lesson.

As you see the reflections of the different angles of you, take your time and be gentle with yourself in getting to know yourself. Stay open to this connection with yourself. Don’t push away those who challenge you or who see potential in you that you’re not ready to see in yourself. Sometimes these people (mirrors) are placed in your life to help reveal the version of you that has always been there waiting to emerge. Stay open. Stay curious and never fear evolution. Growth is rarely comfortable, but is alway worth it!