Shadows from the Past

Intention:

It is said that hurts and stumbles make us stronger and wiser. This exercise is an invitation to acknowledge the negative aspects of our childhood, adolescence, and adulthood up to the present. When not recognized, they can interfere with our ability to differentiate our personal affairs from those of other people. Identifying and dealing with our own pain and its sources can help us assist others in coping with their own.

It is recommended that we intentionally address the shadows of our past, so that we can be as healthy and available as possible to attend and respond to what life and other people present to us.

When playing our personal and occupational roles, we have the opportunity to avoid negative experiences and relationships that would become sad memories. Remembering what has hurt or harmed us can be helpful when relating to other people.

Instruction:

On the next page, write negative memories and associations triggered by the lines identified. You can focus on a particular period in your life (for example, early childhood or adolescence), or on your past in general.

Feel free to illustrate your words with drawings, photos, etc.

Inspection:

·       How easy or difficult was it for you to focus on negative memories, rather than remembering positive experiences?

·       Were you surprised by a memory of something you haven't remembered in a long time?

·       How have you tended to approach and deal with negative experiences from your past thus far?

·       How can remembering the negative experiences in your history contribute to your personal life in the present and beyond?

·       How can you use awareness of your negative memories in your current occupational endeavors?

SHADOWS FROM THE PAST

Unpleasant or Painful Memories

Negative Meaningful Events

Uncomfortable or Distressing Places

Disgusting or Harmful Objects

Destructive or Difficult Relationships

Limiting or Weakening Experiences