Skills for Helping People in Pain and Crisis (continued)

There is a big difference between an anxiety that pushes us to 
do something now, and the conviction of a necessary action or question that arises out of heartfelt participation. Inner guidance can reach us most clearly when we are open and present to another.

Too often we wait until our focus is blurred by unresolved pain in our own lives, pain which may enable poor boundaries, inappropriate transference, and an inability to be fully present. We neglect to protect the strength, clarity, and purity of the heart by not dealing with our own anger, grief, and pain. Good self-care is a necessity, requiring personal resources such as friendship, recreation, and core relationships which fulfill emotional and sexual needs. Spiritual community can be a wellspring of grace and renewal. Professional resources such as continuing education classes, supervision, therapy, bodywork, spiritual retreats and guidance also provide critical support. 

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