Balm and Poison, Guidance and Dependence - The Paradox of a Spiritual Guide and Energy Coach
In my moments of reflection, I contemplate the essence of my medicine. Is it a balm that heals, or does it risk becoming too sweet that masks the needed reminder of pain needing tending? Or maybe it becomes poison because of the misdiagnosis, fostering dependence. My worst nightmare is that my medicine veils reality in a blanket of falsehood or illusions. Is it possible that I am, unknowingly, silencing the very discord within my clients that is essential for their awakening?
What if my well-intentioned guidance misleads, easing suffering so thoroughly that it binds others to me, obscuring their own light? Oh, codependency, you can show up so slippery. What if this reliance erupts in a storm of emotions, leaving them seeking answers in my shadow, alone, rather than discovering their own inner strength in partnership? Community members are now pissed at me and turn away, walking into the night feeling alone and abandoned. No longer desiring me to witness their awakening and their strength as they give that power over to another.
I seriously consider the power dynamic in such relationships as coach and client, teacher and student, spiritual guide and community member. We readily entrust our well-being to others, be it through consumerism or spiritual allegiance, often at a cost not immediately apparent. Yet, it's in this very human nature to seek guidance that both danger and self-awakening lie. How do you begin to notice the difference?
Within my cherished community, a space of awareness and transformation, I recognize the potential for both harm and healing. It's a responsibility we bear together, engaging in constant dialogue, learning, and sharing to nurture a safer, more enlightened collective journey. This is why I deeply respect those who enter this space, not seeking answers but rather a space to contemplate, stretch their skills, and say yes to the soul initiations with courage and curiosity.
This path isn't about standing apart, being above others, more than others. It is humble to recognize that the only way I can be of rooted service to others is by acknowledging the dualities within me. It's about embracing my role not as a savior but as a fellow traveler ordained to witness and share in the pain and beauty of our collective human experience. This is why I chose to become a Minister of Walking Prayer.
As part of my ministerial role, it is up to me to be responsible for the conflicting role I place myself in when engaging with myself and also with others. Do I feel tension due to being a rescuer, a victim, or a persecutor? If ever there is friction in the field, I am partly the creator of it.
When I begin to see myself in those around me, I realize that it could be that our very act of seeking help, despite being shrouded in fear and vulnerability, is a testament to our strength and desire for connection. We approach, entwined in our complex emotions, hoping to find solace and understanding in the presence of someone we trust.
This is when I tap into the Great Mother's well of compassion. No matter how a community member shows up, even if it mirrors fear, denial, frustration, or anger in me, this human is asking for witness and support. They have emotions that are overriding their ability to ground in, and their energy system is on overdrive. They are asking for help.
What if my true calling is to offer this sanctuary, a space of clarity and unconditional love, where individuals can confront and untangle their deepest fears and desires, finding balance and peace within the chaos?
It is an honor to continue exploring my role as Reverend Sora Schilling, Minister of Walking Prayer.
And so, with an open heart and mind, I welcome you to explore this journey with me. That could be here, on the Devoted Way Substack. At the same time, for those drawn to the art of holding space, seeking growth and healing, you may be called to Cosmically Blissful, a sacred gathering for nurturers and seekers alike.
I shall continue to ask these difficult questions and look honestly at where I am failing. Failing only means that I can do better, and it is essential that I remind myself that this is what makes a sacred, circular leader. One that doesn't believe they know it all or is perceived as perfect but can humbly walk the path of a human, bravely deconditioning, releasing the grip of the bitterness of life's hardships, and learning to hold self with love compassionately.
xoxo,
Upcoming Gatherings inside of Cosmically Blissful:
Feb 21: Business Coaching + CoWorking
Join Sora for this monthly live 75-90-minute group business coaching and coworking session. You’ll have the opportunity to receive business support. Not only will she answer questions, but she will workshop your problem. This could mean designing social templates, reviewing your sales page, or creating a new course with you. There will also be time for coworking so you can begin implementing your ideas and inspiration. The intention of having these monthly Biz Coaching + CoWorking is so that you continue to be soulfully aligned with your spiritual life and sacred business - having a greater capacity to serve your clients with precision, energy, and clarity.
Feb 27: Collective Reading + CoWorking Club (Open Event)
Oooohhh, I am excited to extend a heartfelt invitation to a free Devoted Collective event that combines three of my greatest passions: reading, coworking, and circling.
As life coaches and healers, we often find ourselves deeply immersed in our work, which is incredibly rewarding but can sometimes leave little room for personal growth and relaxation. It also means that often, we feel alone and overwhelmed by our to-do list. That's why I'm thrilled to introduce our Monthly Devoted Reading & Coworking Circle!
This gathering is a haven for those who wish to rekindle their love for reading, explore new literary worlds, get work done while in a state of flow, or take a break to connect with a supportive community.
Honestly, reading can be a divine portal for new inspiration or thought-provoking inquiry. Whether fiction or nonfiction, immersing yourself in a good book helps us unwind - unfurl the tight grip that logic and linear ways of being have on us. Relaxing our system creates space for ideas and wisdom, and I am all for that. In addition, I love hearing folks read their favorite passage or share insights and emotions that rose to the surface from whatever they read - even if it was just a chapter or a couple of pages.
This is the beauty of reading together.
At the same time, if coworking is your thing this month, gosh, I don't know a better way to get into that flow state everyone desires to be in All.The.Time. Since we, as a collective, tap into the universal field, it boosts our magical ability to expand time and you get so much done. Coworking is also a wonderful space to get to know each other's work and foster connection and possibly collaborations.
Mar 4, 3pm ET: DEEP Ceremony + Sharing Circle
DEEP (Devoted Energy Emergence Process)
DEEP is an alchemical process that stirs the heart and activates the soul. It is a sacred ceremonial process where you enter into the liminal space and work with your own energy to transmute pain into wisdom, resistance into revolution, and discomfort into liberation.
Magic is real and it is time to enter into the unknown and embrace your medicine, allowing your soul song to reverberate through the cosmic planes and be touched by the blessings and miracles of the Great Mother.
Mar 5, 2pm ET: Space Holder Workshop
In expressing the unique medicine and superpower within you, how can you invite others into your magical realm in a way that they remember and cherish their experience with you?
In our dynamic Space Holding Workshop, Inviting Others into Your Magical Realm: Expressing Your Unique Medicine and Superpower, we will embark on a journey to explore the depths of our individual gifts and how these can be shared to create unforgettable, transformative experiences for others. This workshop is crafted for those who seek to not only understand and harness their innate powers but also to extend an invitation to others that leaves a lasting impact. Through interactive exercises, reflective prompts, and practical strategies, participants will delve into the art of expressing their unique essence in a way that captivates and nurtures. By the end of this session, you will be equipped with the tools and insights needed to create spaces that are not just remembered but deeply cherished by those you touch.
Mar 13, 2pm ET: Get Coached!
Get Coached! I invite you to step into a realm of transformation and discovery. This isn't just any coaching session; it's a journey led by a seasoned navigator of the cosmic soul realms – me! I hope this opportunity that I am extending to you, the heart and soul of the Cosmically Blissful community, is one that you will say YES to.
What Can You Expect at Get Coached?
Personalized Laser Energy Coaching: For those who RSVP and express their desire in the comments, prepare to be the focus of a unique, one-on-one coaching session. Your energy, your challenges, your breakthroughs – it's all about you.
Witness and Transform: Not ready for the spotlight? No problem. Join us as a space holder and experience the collective energy. You'll be surprised at how the transformations of others can ripple into your own life.
Demystify Energy Coaching: Ever wondered what energy coaching really is? This is your chance to satiate that curiosity. Discover the tools, techniques, and triumphant tales of those who've walked this path before.
Community and Connection: Cosmically Blissful is more than a group; it's a family. Share, learn, and grow with individuals who are on the same journey as you.
Mar 21, 2pm ET: Business Coaching + CoWorking
Join Sora for this monthly live 75-90-minute group business coaching and coworking session. You’ll have the opportunity to receive business support. Not only will she answer questions, but she will workshop your problem. This could mean designing social templates, reviewing your sales page, or creating a new course with you. There will also be time for coworking so you can begin implementing your ideas and inspiration. The intention of having these monthly Biz Coaching + CoWorking is so that you continue to be soulfully aligned with your spiritual life and sacred business - having a greater capacity to serve your clients with precision, energy, and clarity.
Mar 26, 3pm ET: Collective Reading + CoWorking (Open Event)
Oooohhh, I am excited to extend a heartfelt invitation to a free Devoted Collective event that combines three of my greatest passions: reading, coworking, and circling.
As life coaches and healers, we often find ourselves deeply immersed in our work, which is incredibly rewarding but can sometimes leave little room for personal growth and relaxation. It also means that often, we feel alone and overwhelmed by our to-do list. That's why I'm thrilled to introduce our Monthly Devoted Reading & Coworking Circle!
This gathering is a haven for those who wish to rekindle their love for reading, explore new literary worlds, get work done while in a state of flow, or take a break to connect with a supportive community.
Honestly, reading can be a divine portal for new inspiration or thought-provoking inquiry. Whether fiction or nonfiction, immersing yourself in a good book helps us unwind - unfurl the tight grip that logic and linear ways of being have on us. Relaxing our system creates space for ideas and wisdom, and I am all for that. In addition, I love hearing folks read their favorite passage or share insights and emotions that rose to the surface from whatever they read - even if it was just a chapter or a couple of pages.
This is the beauty of reading together.
At the same time, if coworking is your thing this month, gosh, I don't know a better way to get into that flow state everyone desires to be in All.The.Time. Since we, as a collective, tap into the universal field, it boosts our magical ability to expand time and you get so much done. Coworking is also a wonderful space to get to know each other's work and foster connection and possibly collaborations.
I’d love to hear from you. Would you leave me a comment and share your feels around today’s post?