Land of Oz Workshops Blog: Being Thankful

Land of Oz Workshops Blog: Being Thankful: Revisiting the past is a naturally occurring phenomenon that happens over and over again in the course of a single day. Simple conversa...

Being Thankful

Revisiting the past is a naturally occurring phenomenon that happens over and over again in the course of a single day. Simple conversations about what we did or where we went immediately take us back in time. Our life is filled with symbols from the past and these symbols stir up memories. A painting, a film, a photograph, a wine glass, a quilt, a special book, a street, a scent, or simply listening to the lyrics and melody of a song can immediately transport you back in time. Those of you who have recently seen the film Jersey Boys know what I mean.

When we look at photographs, the visual image automatically takes us back in time. A single photograph can have hundreds of words associated with it, marvelous stories, and stimulate dozens of memories. When we think about things we have done, places we have traveled to, relationships we have had, or jobs we have held, we are on a sojourn in time. The imagery and related feelings can seem so real, it is like we are there again in present time.

Traveling back in time to memories can be an exhilarating experience or miserable journey, depending upon what we are thinking about. We can recall and entertain images and memories that make us sad and depressed and we can entertain images and memories that make us laugh and feel good. Recalling memories over and over that serve no positive or constructive purpose can severely narrow future possibilities for fun and enjoyment. If the stories we tell are typically dark and make us feel sad and lonely, then it will behoove us to change the dialogue. What we typically think about is likely to manifest and so it is important to realize the transforming power of our thoughts and words.

If in our time travels we primarily think back to all the things that didn’t work out as we had hoped: separations, losses, disappointments, mistakes, hurts, injustices, resentments and the like, then we are using the amazing power of the mind and imagination in very limited and perhaps unhealthy ways. But if we instead think about all the people and situations that have brought us the gift and miracle of love, then these memories will dramatically alter our consciousness.

Nobel Peace Prize recipient Albert Schweitzer wrote, “Sometimes our light goes out but is propelled again into flame by an encounter with another human being. Each of us owes the deepest thanks to those who have rekindled this inner light.”

Who are the people that have rekindled your inner light? Perhaps it is was a new friend, a lover, life partner, or character in a novel or film that brought a smile to your face. Maybe it’s the friend who listened to you when you were in the doldrums and gave you the feedback that brought clarity. Think about Schweitzer’s quote and let those wonderful memories fill your mind and open your heart. And say, thanks!

Land of Oz Workshops Blog: Facing and Dealing with Personal Loss

Land of Oz Workshops Blog: Facing and Dealing with Personal Loss: In his mid-20’s, C.G. Jung was given a copy of Sigmund Freud’s newly published book, The Interpretation of Dreams. Jung devoured the ma...

Facing and Dealing with Personal Loss

In his mid-20’s, C.G. Jung was given a copy of Sigmund Freud’s newly published book, The Interpretation of Dreams. Jung devoured the material since at the time there was nothing like it to be found. While reading this amazing book, Jung began corresponding with Freud and their respective letters to each other led to a meeting in 1907. Jung describes their 13 hour meeting as nothing less than phenomenal. Over the next 5 years, from 2007-2012, the two of them worked together to analyze each other’s dreams. In his Autobiography Memories, Dreams, Reflections, Jung dedicated two chapters to Freud, thanking him for his inspiring work and theories. But, he also made it clear that his parting with Freud came because he did not want to support some of Freud’s more controversial theories. Enraged at Jung’s audacity for not supporting all of his theories, Freud broke off their personal friendship and professional relationship.

After their parting, Jung went through what he described as a dark night of the soul for 5 years. But it was during this grieving and soul searching period he discovered ‘amazing things’ about himself, his relationship with his wife, and his work with his clients. These ‘things’ became the building blocks of his creative theories which included writings about the collective unconscious, archetypes, symbolism, psychic energy, synchronicity, alchemy, psychological complexes, and the spiritual and religious dimensions of the psyche. In short, the loss became the driving force for Jung to delve into the realm of his own unconscious and to create the theories for which he would become renowned.

In 1916, Jung was contacted by writer Hermann Hesse who was going through considerable depression regarding the death of his father, the serious illness of his son, and the paralyzing mental illness of his wife. Hesse worked with Jung for 2 years, immersing himself into Jung’s unique style of dream work and active imagination wherein Hesse was guided to amplify, interpret, and integrate the symbolism in his dreams. As a result, Hesse again reached new heights of creativity in his thinking and writing and had two outstanding books published that today remain literary classics: Demian and Siddhartha.

Jung’s loss of Freud’s friendship and Hesse’s losses are important reminders that loss comes to everyone, young and old, rich and poor, well-known and anonymous.  Divorce, separation, death, illness, financial challenge, unanticipated change, and a variety of other losses are all part of the drama and unfolding of life. We cannot shield ourselves from loss and the accompanying pain and grief but like Jung and Hesse, perhaps loss may miraculously open the way for a more challenging and perhaps fulfilling life.

In facing and dealing with the emotional turmoil of a loss, you may discover inspiring books or philosophies that miraculously reshape your perception and thinking. During your loss a dream or series of dreams may give you important spiritual guidance. Your loss may open a door to a new and creative way of expressing yourself. In seeking help for your loss you may discover amazing resources that help you heal.