I have been reminded lately of the importance of family, in whatever that means to you. it was my uncle's funeral on friday and I spent time with cousins I don't often see. They had lost their father and although he lived a fabulous life, there was a sense of wishing we had appreciated him more while he was alive. Not regret, just a clear remembering of the fragility and preciousness of life. It set me on a course of thinking about my loved ones and how authentic (or inauthentic) I am with them. Authenticity is a high priority for me at the moment, and I find sometimes I tell people how I see it at the expense of their feelings. I value transparency. I value honesty. I also value respect and compassion and sometimes it is challenging to marry both sets of values.
So, my goal is to stay clear enough to recognise when it is right to step back, listen and keep quiet, or when the best thing to do is to speak my truth loud and proud. Wish me luck.....