This week, I’ve seen so much growth in people. And growth that I feel confident in the skill sets the people I work south have, that even without counseling, they’d be like little old me at seven when Dad let go of me on that bike with no training wheels. I finally felt the exhilarating feeling of pushing myself forward while balancing.
It seems like the themes I teach in counseling come in waves. For this week, it’s been the differences that happen when we’re connected in relationship to each other and when we’re disconnected.
In one session, a client shared how when fatigued, they feel justified to check out, telling themselves, “I just can’t.” Their goal for the coming year is to improve the connectivity in their relationships. They are focused on understanding that it’s okay to be tired and need time to oneself, but also on how to do so while maintaining a connection with the people they care about.
Another individual shared a recent interaction, saying, “It’s bad to get angry so I don’t,” and when asked what happens next, they said, “I get resentful.” “So, resentment is better than anger?” I asked. The illogic was not lost on them, to which they replied, “You have a point.” We also discussed how the ability to stay connected with their partner when either one is angry would be a valuable skill to learn, as it would keep them from disconnection and resentment.
The fact that I didn’t get to any progress notes this week means I’ll likely need to structure tomorrow with a Pomodoro timer, where I write for 25 minutes with a 5-minute break. I imagine this will take two to three hours. I knew I’d be in this position by pushing off my notes but I half-heartedly accept the task before me.
Did your parents ever use the car wash as a fun experience like mine did? Tomorrow, we’ll probably hit up the Pink Elephant as every day this week when passing it Eleven has pointed at it and asked to go. Tomorrow dear Evelyn, tomorrow.
Take care. Love, Jaclynn
Going On 40 