“When you focus with compassion on a troubling part of yourself, you are caring for that part holistically — addressing its unhelpful thoughts and the painful emotions it carries. This process involves prayerfully inviting the Holy Spirit to draw close to this specific part of you.”- Alison Cook and Kimberly Miller
Alison Cook and Kimberly Miller move on in Chapter 5 of Boundaries for Your Soul as they discuss how to move from self-condemnation to self-acceptance. First, they advise asking yourself how you feel about a particular troublesome part of yourself. That, in turn, helps you recognize whether or not you’re leading from your Spirit-led self. This openhearted stance helps create a secure attachment that grows stronger over time.
Furthermore, Alison and Kim explain the import of this vital step:
“In taking this pivotal step of befriending a troublesome part of your soul, you’re shifting from self-hatred to self-acceptance. Instead of condemning, you’re extending the warmth of friendship. Don’t hate this part of you; it’s been protecting you! Show compassion toward the part of your soul that feels this way. Thank it for being there and for helping you to be strong.”
Thus, you must gain your protectors’ trust before they’ll relax. For, the authors remind us, protectors take their job seriously. Also, they devote themselves to “helping some vulnerable part of your soul in whatever way they know how.”
As a result, once your faithful, diligent protectors sense your appreciation, they’ll trust you to care for the exiles they protect. Yet, when challenged, they dig in their heels – more determined than ever to prove how indispensable they are.
So, befriend your struggling protectors. Come alongside them in a way that helps them find the relief they require.
Today’s question: What Bible verses help you holistically focus on troubling parts of yourself? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Your exiles need secure attachment”
