Emotional Intimacy: My Journey To Feeling

I have come to recognize something I newly value: Grace.
Not in the sense of leniency, but in handling complex and/or challenging situations with ease.

The last 3 - 4 years of my life have been primarily spent on a rapid personal development iteration loop. It has been in an effort to be the type of man (personally and professionally) I know I am capable of... and it's been a hell of a ride.

Most recently, I was confronted with a situation, one I had experienced in the past, a habitual cycle, if you will. Except, this time it was different. This time I had the awareness, the clarity of feeling, to know I made a decision rooted in fear.

I'm a bit stubborn at times. I've often had to learn things 'the hard way.' Yet I don't believe there is truly a hard way... there only 'is.' This belief shift occurred when I was able to transmute my mom's passing from a curse, to a blessing.

Yet, belief is a poor substitute for experience... and I've never been one to allow other's experiences dictate my own.

In all of this, and in observing those around me who have relationships I aspire to emulate, I've learned that the strongest men soften in the face of adversity. They greet situations with empathy and love... and they never close themselves off to the beautiful experience(s) (lesson(s)) being presented to them.

Up until recently, the above was a foreign concept to me. I viewed vulnerability and openness as a sign of weakness... yet what I long for most is deep fulfilling community and connection.

It's funny how our beliefs are often at odds with the things we want most... and how when you think you've 'done the work,' a new vertical of work presents itself. Yet, how lucky am I to be able to have, write, and share these experiences.

Years ago, when I completed my Yoga Teach Training, we studied the Yoga Sutras.
Sutra 2.46 discusses the concept of Sthira Sukham Asanam. Translated as "Strength and ease in every pose."

"It ain't what you don't know that gets you into trouble, it's what you know for sure that just ain't so."

- Mark Twain

The beauty in all of this is now that I've seen the other side... there's no going back!

Quote On My Mind:

"Control language and you control thought;
control thought and you control action;
control action and you control the world."

﹣Peter Kreeft

A belief is nothing more than a repeated thought.
Be careful of the spells you choose to cast.

Share This On X/Twitter

In Case You Missed It:

In last weeks edition, I wrote about how I prime my space for energetic success, both at home and on the road. It's served me well and has granted me an inside look at what amplifies and detracts from my energy.

The five main categories I place my focus are:

1. Mornings
2. Gym Proximity
3. Focused Deep-Work
4. Contemplative Walks
5. Healthy Meals & Community

Tap here to read the full article.