“So it is with the ecology of your soul. When you practice Spirit-led leadership, you’re cultivating an internal garden that helps the wild and magnificent parts of you grow together in a peaceful and integrated way. Each part becoming healthier generates growth in other areas of your internal landscape too.”- Alison Cook and Kimberly Miller
Alison Cook and Kimberly Miller conclude Chapter 8 of Boundaries for Your Soul as they note that the process of integration leads to a lighter way of being. As a result, the authors add, you may notice some holy reframes in your thinking. For example:
- “I can’t take the pain” becomes “I am stronger than I think.”
- “I’m not important” becomes “It matters that I’m here.”
- “My life has no purpose” becomes “How can I serve today?”
So, the authors exhort, consider the possibility of your warring parts working together. What if they transformed, to restate the words of Abraham Lincoln, the better angels of your nature? And, what happens when you invite your warring parts to dream? Therefore, as Helen LaKelly Hunt wisely wrote:
The Seven Deadly Sins can become aspects of a healthy self. Greed and lust become passion, imbuing our journey with heart and fire. Anger transforms into righteousness that acts compassionately for our own and others’ behalf. The healthy side to gluttony is self-care, something many [people] have to learn. Envy, once integrated, becomes an appreciation of others. And in a society where doing is valued over being, sloth turns into the ability to be still. Pride enables us to feel good about our accomplishments and grow in confidence and strength.”
In conclusion, Alison and Kim assert, Jesus invites every part of you to come to Him. No matter how broken or rejected they feel. That frees you to focus on your God-given purpose in the world. Furthermore, the authors state, “you love people in a more merciful and sustainable way.”
Today’s question: What Bible verses help you nurture your internal garden? Please share.
Tomorrow’s blog: “Anger – empowering in the moment”
