What I heard…
Hurt people, hurt people.
When I feel hurt by someone I can sometimes react (young self) by defending, judging, lashing out or icing out. This is a reaction from a young, wounded, frightened part of myself. I am, quite literally, not in my right Mind.
When I can respond rather than react I can:
Pause.
Take a few deep breaths.
Hold my heart.
Say out loud, “OUCH!”
Visual that young, upset part of myself and let my higher self comfort, hold, soothe or just be with her. Be with THOSE feelings.
Take my time. This might take a while. There is no rush. This is what self-love and self-care looks like for me and it has take time and a lot of practice to get here. And I do this SO imperfectly. Which, of course, offers another opportunity to unconditionally love and accept all the parts of me.
If I did react I still need to do the self-soothing, loving, mindful work with my younger self and then I have two choices: I can apologize for my part (without trying to squeeze in something about THEIR part!) or I can forgive.
Very simple, but not easy.
Love and blessings,
Pamela