Hey y’all!As we navigate through life’s winding roads, we often encounter bumps that can lead to fractured relationships. Whether it’s with a friend, family member, or colleague, misunderstandings and conflicts can build walls that seem too high to climb. But what if I told you that there's a way to mend those broken fences and rebuild stronger connections than ever before?Let’s dive into a journey of healing, combining the wisdom of the Bible, the creativity of art therapy, and the clarity of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), all centered around the peaceful process of mediation.
Step 1: Seek Wisdom and Understanding
The Bible tells us, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18). This scripture doesn’t just challenge us; it invites us to take personal responsibility for the peace we seek. Begin by reflecting inward, using mediation to calm your mind and spirit. Sit quietly, breathe deeply, and ask yourself what peace looks like for you. This internal dialogue sets a solid foundation for external reconciliation.
Step 2: Express Through Art Therapy
Art therapy isn’t just about creating pretty pictures; it’s a profound way to communicate emotions that words sometimes can’t capture. In my coaching sessions, I encourage folks to paint, draw, or sculpt their feelings about the relationship in question. This isn’t about art skills—it’s about letting your soul speak. You might be surprised at what you discover about your feelings and the situation when you let the creativity flow.
Step 3: Embrace the Power of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT helps us manage our emotions and improve our relationships through skills like mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. One key aspect we focus on is ‘radical acceptance’—accepting things as they are, not as we wish them to be. This can be particularly liberating when dealing with broken relationships. By accepting the current state of things, we open the door to change and healing.
Step 4: Engage in Constructive Dialogue
Armed with a clearer understanding of your emotions and a heart guided by scripture, it’s time to talk. “Therefore, confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective” (James 5:16). Approach this conversation not as a battle to be won, but as a bridge to be built. Use the skills from DBT to communicate effectively, ensuring that you listen just as much as you speak.
Step 5: Create a Shared Vision
After clearing the air, collaborate on a piece of art or a joint project. This activity symbolizes a new chapter. As you both contribute to this creation, you reinforce the idea of teamwork and shared goals. It’s a beautiful reminder that even the most broken fences can be mended into something new and beautiful.
Remember, healing takes time and patience. Not all fences will be completely mended, and that’s okay. What’s important is that you’ve taken steps toward forgiveness and understanding, guided by faith and empowered by therapeutic practices.Let’s keep lifting each other up, y’all. We’re all on this journey together, and there’s nothing too broken that it can’t be healed with a little faith, art, and honest conversation.
Peace and blessings,
Eve
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