They say that sometimes the most powerful experiences in life come at the most unexpected times. You are completely blown away and awe struck.
This happened to me, and I want to tell you what happened. I was invited to a local NGO to facilitate the last session of a two month support group they had been running for nine women who were victims of domestic violence. I was with them for two hours and the little time I spent with them created a shift in my inner self. This experience really touched me.
The session started off with some activities on assertiveness and problem solving. It was fun with bouts of unstoppable laughter to add to the reverie. They shared their stories, their fears, lingering questions and they were open and honest about their lives. Being a therapist, this inspired me to continue to serve people . Today revealed another side to mental health, human suffering and most importantly to human strength.
The highlight of the session were the kindness activities and the gratitude call. The kindness activity involved the members of the support group taking initiative and demonstrating kindness in their own little way towards the staff of the same NGO. They spoke to people they'd never spoken to before and the entire atmosphere of the building changed. There were smiles all around and the staff were genuinely happy. The sense of confidence displayed by all nine women was amazing. What a bright spark to my day! Beautiful!
The whole idea of looking outside of yourself, at someone else, and being kind to someone else was further etched in my heart after watching them doing small acts of kindness. One of the group members said ' no matter what you might be going through, being kind to someone else does shed light on our lives'. It helps embrace the world beyond you and your suffering. This really did open my eyes. I felt like there was growth for me as a therapist and a human being. You always grow vicariously through the people you encounter in your life's journey, no matter where in your life, you might meet them.
It was nearly time for the session to come to an end and for me there was no better way to end it than with a gratitude call, just to say thank you to someone who has helped you along the way. The women were a bit unsure at first but out came their mobile phones and they dialled numbers of family members, friends etc who have contributed to their lives in any little way. All nine calls were so genuine and moving and this really touched my heart and brought tears into my eyes. Some of the women cried while expressing their gratitude to their loved one's and those tears were filled with love and thankfulness. They were real tears, spilt by tired eyes, but coaxed by rejuvenated hearts.
I bow down with respect and gratitude to all nine women in the support group and to thousands of women who are battered, violated and humiliated in Sri Lanka, but who have brave and courageous hearts. I bow to each and everyone of you with utmost humility and gratitude.
You are all my teachers. May you all be well,happy and peaceful.
