“What are you left with when everything changes? ”is an interactive art project now showing at the International Art Group’s "Cultures Connecting" and "Where do I Belong" at North Lakeside Cultural Center, 6219 N. Sheridan. This project was created as a response to lots of changes in my life.
What are you left with when everything changes?
By Eve Brownstone, MA, LCPC
This is a time of big change. People are losing their jobs, their homes. Because of the stress of it all their health is suffering. It is hard not to fall into a pity party or become a mushy mess.
What is left when everything you know changes? How do you pick yourself off the floor?
Some say you are left with a clean slate. You can start over in any direction you choose. There can be a renewed sense of freedom in that. It can be a great time to let your creative passions drive you on a path your heart most desires.
What if you are trying real hard but you feel like you are just treading water? Know you aren’t alone. These are tough times for everyone, even Goldman Sachs.
This is where faith, persistence and patience comes in.
Talking with my Higher Power has become a regular part of my day. I thank her for everyday and for all the blessings in my life. I thanked God the other day for all the gorgeous cherry and apple blossoms in Lincoln Park and for being able to hold my mother’s hand. I also offer a thanks for all the lessons I’m learning such as: we all experience change differently. There is no one right way. When a family goes through major changes we have to be gentle, loving and respectful of each other.
Everyday, I say, “I am open to all the good in the Universe.” I get real specific with numbers. How many clients I want in my private practice? What kind of clients? Where do I want to be teaching a class? Then I get quiet and visualize clients calling me and coming into my office door, then leave feeling better. I see myself in groups of people who are ready to make changes. Their hearts are more open and their eyes have a sparkle.
I got to believe in myself, get clear about why I’m on the planet. Sometimes, I need to even get out of my own way if I start having doubts. I want to believe that people want to know what I’ve got to share. People will benefit, be enriched and heal from the experience.
Hang in there everybody!
Eve Brownstone
http://www.brownstonetherapeutics.com/
