The emotion I am studying today is boredom. Of course it is not by choice but by necessity. I ran from the depressing finale of Steinbeck's Grapes of Wrath, into the arms of boredom.
I did this largely because my teacher, Suzanne Noel, has stressed the use of PAUSE in our Focusing (ALA Eugene Gendlin), which she is adapting for 12-step groups. Noel uses the acronym to make Focusing techniques accessible to 12-steppers of all stripes. Her acronym for PAUSE invites us to first, Pause, then Attend Unconditionally and Symbolize our Experience, to find self-Empathy.
I put it more simply for those of us who are emotionally bound. Instead of indulging or fighting a problem emotion, I look within. I lean into it. I Attend to it, with love and Allow Understanding and Serenity to Emerge. When I can describe the feeling, or experience it, then I find self-empathy.
By saying, "Hello Boredom, what are you hear to teach me?" I paradoxically find enthusiasm and peace!
In my personal practice today with boredom, is that showing up to write was the trick to pull me out of a nosedive. Thanks Suzanne. Your invitation to experience PAUSE may be the beginning of new self-empathy and healing.You have allowed me the long-denied luxury of writing, about program!
I like to use the acronym Pause as an invitation.
ReplyDeleteThe Power is in the Pause.
Pause to find Awareness of a cunning emotion.
Let Understanding percolate
and the Still Small Voice bring
Empathy.