Rob Greenfield Instagram – At the age of 37 I feel a stronger love for my mother than I have ever felt in my adult life.
Over the last few years we have learned to communicate with each other and relate in a new way. It has taken substantial work that has been very emotionally difficult at times. But through this dedication a new chapter in our relationship has begun. A chapter of empathy, understanding, gratitude and healing.
In the past when I visited my mom, I would find myself frustrated and irritated very quickly. This resulted in me being short and harsh in many of my responses. It didn’t feel good for my mom and it didn’t feel good for me. I never wanted to respond this way, and many times I did manage to be patient, gentle and calm but far too often we both felt the pain of our communication.
Two years ago I began the practice of Compassionate Communication and made great strides in understanding my own communication patterns and how they are received by others. I began to understand empathy and slowly even embody empathy in my thinking and communicating. I saw improvement in my interactions with most people, including my mom. I nudged my mom to join me in Compassionate Communication classes and after a year she did join. Our relationship took a huge positive leap in just two months of class.
I’ve just returned from five months in my homeland and my mom and I spent a lot of quality time together. It was the most time we’ve ever had together since I left at age 18. In the entire 5 months, we never argued once, never raised our voices at each other and there was barely even a moment of frustration or agitation for either of us. I feel so much joy and peace reflecting upon this. We have both experienced a lot of healing together through the practice of empathy, gratitude, understanding and celebration of life. At the center is always listening for my moms needs and feelings, what is truly alive in her – not necessarily the exact words she says. I feel a stronger connection than ever before and a deep love and sense of gratitude for her.
Thank you mom for being YOU!
I love you just the way you are. 🙂
Love,
Robin
Learn about Compassionate Communication: robingreenfield.org/nvc | Posted on 15/Jan/2024 20:55:43
