We think of soul-searching as a deep, internal reflection. And it is that. Soul-searching is spiritual reflection, through which we sort out the true from the false about our authentic selves.
Soul-searching can also be external reflection. Our spiritual reflection can shift outward to the people we most admire. When we are deeply drawn to someone, we have an important mirror to an important part of ourselves. For example:
You love the confidence that Sheila carries. There is a confidence within you that is waiting to be nurtured.
You are drawn to Jonathan’s easy and frequent laughter. Being more playful would make your heart sing.
Think about particular traits that you admire in another person. That trait stands out to you because something within you recognizes it as a point of connection. The characteristic in the other that you would love to have, resonates because it is waiting to be acknowledged and developed within you.
Here’s an exercise to help you look into the mirror of your soul, by looking at souls you admire:
Call into mind 3 to 5 people you deeply admire - they may be living or dead.
Make a list of the specific traits that captivate you in each of the people.
Once you have this list completed, quiet yourself and say before each of the traits, “I am ___.”
“I am confident and brave.”
“I am fun and playful.”
Repeat and notice how if feels look into this mirror of your soul by looking to those you admire.
William Martin is someone I deeply admire, a spiritual author and teacher who has helped me live into my own soul. This Thursday 3/20 from 7-8:30pm CST, I’ll be hosting him for a Zoom conversation on how the Tao Te Ching speaks to our anxious, changing world. I’d love for you to join our discussion - sign up here!:
Register here for this exciting event!