Don't let people pull you into their storm. Pull them into your peace.

Kimberley Jones

I do not fully agree with this quote. I definitely agree with the first sentence: “don't let people pull you into their storm”. And I love that  it says “their storm” and “my peace.” I feel like that immediately gives me a clear understanding of what is in my hula hoop. Whatever the other person is going through is not my responsibility and is not something I need to internalize. It is their storm, and I do not need to take part in it or be pulled into it. I can choose to remain in my peace.

The part of the quote that I disagree with is “pull them into your peace.” For me, I believe that what I might see as a storm is simply my interpretation of a storm. That is to say, it just doesn't work for me. It might be a situation that is totally different for the other person. I believe that it is up to each person to decide what defines peace for them.  What I consider a storm, someone else could consider peace. And what might be peace for me, might be a storm for others.

So, instead of “pull[ing] others into my peace,” I think it is more accurate to state (as per my experience) that I stay in my peace and offer the other person compassion and support. This is often tricky for me. I forget easily that offering compassion and support is about being of service to my fellows. So, it is important that I do not force my idea of compassion or support onto others, which is the same as “pulling them into my peace.” Instead, I can offer my support by asking how I can be of service.

Today, I will choose not to be pulled into another person's storm. Instead, I will remain in my peace and offer compassion and try to be of service to my Higher Power and to my fellow.

A meditation for July 23, 2013.

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