When I was little my parents said to me “Think before you speak”. As I grew up I thought that I would sooner be more spontaneous when speaking. On becoming older I realize the importance of speaking consciously. Our words have an impact on others. Even the words we use to speak of the earthquake can increase or neutralize fear. When we say the earthquake “struck”, isn’t there a subtle suggestion that something [the earth] is doing something deliberate to us. And is something to be feared. Why not say that the earthquake happened, which is neutral. Speak consciously – there is so much influence in our words.

Earthquake

 How has the earthquake changed you? Did it shake up your life – the emotions, behaviours, relationships, habits, physical health. Do you get stressed more easily? Do you get frights more easily? It’s interesting how difficult it is for some of us to be relaxed about it. How come we get so scared and fearful? And why do you have such a different reaction to other people. Consider the idea that your reaction may have something to do with earlier experiences in your life and how you perceived these. Your emotional response to early crises will reappear causing you to be fragile, or fearful or resilient.

  Are you able to be true to yourself? Do you speak truthfully about what is going on for you? Or do you cover up by saying you are fine when really you are not? What does this cost you? You might think you are making it easier for the other person when really you are denying yourself the opportunity to live in truth and to share openly. You may be fearful of the other person’s response and the effect on you. Don’t you get tired of being in fear? Step out of this fear and show your real self. You may be surprised at how this opens yourself to truthfulness and love from others.

Treasure yourself.

   Today is the day to get real and treasure yourself. You are a valuable person. You have lots to share – love, kindness, compassion. You can share these by living from them. Not by putting effort into trying hard to be or do good, but by feeling these qualities and allowing them be apparent in your day-to-day living. No matter how often your mind comes up with doubts;  love, kindness and compassion are in you, and with you. They are ready to guide your life, to help you be the best that you can. Relax and let your inner self guide you.

Resilience

To be strong and adaptable is a useful quality in these times. Being patient and kind are also valuable qualities. These all go out the window when we are stressed and tired - unless they are so embedded and part of our belief system that they work automatically. How do we build resilience? How can we learn to view life's experiences as chances to further develop and not let our fear get in the way of continuing to live fully in the moment?
Firstly, what has happened in the past for you? How have you been supported through previous crises? How do you perceive previous crises? What emotions are you hiding inside yourself from that time? You can improve your resilience by facing these emotions, and releasing them. You can express them by talking, writing, artwork, singing, being physically active. And you still need to feel them, to release them.
Secondly, you can also look after yourself right now by accepting support from others. You can be kind to yourself by accepting how you feel and being understanding of yourself. Give yourself a gift - a flower, a walk, a sit in the sun, a massage, a time for you. Maybe dance or sing. Treasure yourself and open deep inside yourself to find truth.

Are feelings a waste of time?

Do you think that feelings are a waste of time? Trouble is, they run our life. We can't get away from them. They are there even when we think we have them under control. Fear stops us from speaking up and saying what we really think. Fear stops us from trying a new activity. Fear creates that tight knot in our stomach and we think "I can't". Fear stops us from being confident. And we all want to feel confident and happy. Fear and other negative emotions get in the way. They block our real selves and reduce our potential for growth and development - no matter what age we are. Anger comes out at unexpected times, causing a ripple effect on other people.
Maybe we need to think differently about feelings. Try allowing yourself to feel, really feel. Try relaxing into the feeling. You might be surprised at the result.

How has the earthquake changed you?

Did it shake up your life  - emotions, bahaviours, relationships, habits, physical health? For some people there is no area of their lives that has not been affected by the earthquake. Do you get stressed more easily? Do you get frights more easily? Do you sleep as well as you did before?  It is difficult for some of us to be relaxed about the aftershocks.
How come we get so scared and fearful? Why do you have a different reaction to other people?
Consider the possibility that your reaction may have something to do with earlier experiences in your life. Your emotional response to earlier crises will have reappeared causing you to be fearful, or fragile, or stressed, or resilient. What is your emotional response? What is the cause of this response? Find out by undergoing a Journey process to uncover the memory, and allow yourself to release the emotions associated with it. Live life more freely.