I believe in signs. Sometimes there is a gentle knock from the Universe, alerting me to pay attention and at other times the knock becomes more persistent where I must pause and get curious. I experienced one of these knocks late this summer.
In August, I found myself at a house sale in Essex, NY while on vacation and came upon a pile of books marked “free”. Sitting on top was an old copy of The Little Prince by Antione de Saint-Exupéry. I had been thinking for some time about re-reading this book, so I picked up the copy and took it with me. Upon returning home, I had coffee with a friend in her home. Sitting on her porch I noticed a print of The Little Prince hanging on the wall with the following quote:
“It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.”
Another week went by and in the early morning hours of a night of restless sleep, I picked up a book from the library in which the characters reference The Little Prince while deep in conversation at a coffee shop. Several hours later, I opened my weekly e-mail from Wisdom 2.0 only to find the same quote referenced. This certainly got my attention, but I continued with my day, the moment fading.
September arrived and a friend texted me with a book recommendation. I decided to listen to it on audio for a change of pace. At one point, the main characters enter a paper shop and almost purchase a Le Petite Prince pen with, wait for it, the same quote on it.
So now, I must pause and get curious.
What do I see with my heart? How is it different than what I see with my eyes?
In my experience, heart sight is more generous and expansive. It encompasses what is seen with what is deeply known. When I see with my heart, I center the person versus the story or set of circumstances. It is seeing through a trauma responsive lens. And when I can see “rightly”, there is greater possibility for healing centered action.
I am grateful for the persistent knock at my door and the reminder that in this moment of time, there is unlimited opportunity to practice seeing with our heart.
With gratitude,
Elizabeth
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TINRC on Tour brings communities together across New York to explore trauma-informed, equity-centered, and wellness practices.
Dates: Wednesday, November 12th
Time: 10am – 3pm
Location: Sister of St. Joseph Campus, Brentwood, NY 11717
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Sometimes a person needs a story more than food to stay alive.
– Barry Lopex, Crow and Weasel
The first time I heard this quote its resonance reverberated through my being for days. For nearly 30 years, it has remained one of my favorite quotes pertaining to the power of storytelling.
October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
It’s a time to raise awareness about domestic violence, recognize the signs of abuse and learn what resources are available for survivors. But learning isn’t enough. We need to take action – at home, at work, and in our communities – to promote healthy relationships.
Not all stress at work is positive or even tolerable.
Sometimes, a job can take a toll on your body, your mood, and your well-being. If your workplace feels unsafe, disrespectful, or draining, you might be in a toxic environment.
On this special episode of Pathways, Dr. Elizabeth Meeker welcomes Dr. Nadine Burke Harris for a rich discussion on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and their profound impact on long-term health outcomes.
The NYS TINRC Newsletter is produced by CCSI. The views, opinions, and content expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or policies of the New York State Office of Mental Health (NYS OMH).
