I see you 😍

Did you ever watch the movie "Avatar"?  

Groundbreaking in ways I don't even understand (technology, yeccch! 😂) it was full of breathtaking imagery and imagination.  It displayed the depth and breadth of imperialism, entitlement, and greed.  It honored the value of differences, indigenous wisdom, openness to learning from and about others, and forming genuine relationships. 

There are so many symbolic and moving aspects of it, that even as I start to type this to you, I stray from my original focus.  

Yes, the examples of moving with and through emotions - from devastating grief and loss to immense joy and exhilaration...

Yes, the possibilities of shifting from self-centered and manipulative alliances to insight, understanding, and loving devotion...

Yes, the profound contrast between exploitation of nature to living in harmony, gratitude and respect with the environment...

And, the reason this original movie first sprang to mind today as I was thinking of you...the powerful greeting Jake learned not just to say, but mean and feel... the Na'vi greeting, "I see you."

I see you.  

It goes beyond the physical seeing.  It goes to recognizing the whole person.  Witnessing all that they are.  Accepting, valuing, and affirming their worth.

Today, and every day, my wish for you is to be seen, valued, witnessed, and affirmed in all that you feel and all that you are.

I see you... 

I see how tired you feel.

I see how hard you work.

I see the determination, grit, and resilience you've harnessed to get to where you are today.

I see you giving your all for your loved ones, your career, and your communities.

I see your self-confidence struggling to root itself amongst the weeds of external criticisms and nagging self-doubt.

I see the emotional labor you endure.

I see the grief you carry.

I see you containing the screams of justified anger and anguish.

I see your burnout, fatigue, and exhaustion.

I see the questions in your eyes about how much longer you can continue like this.

I see the healing you've done, and the healing you still need.

I see your faith and hope in a better world.

I see your longing for more laughter, joy, and time to enjoy simple pleasures.

I see your soul yearning to feel free, liberated, and unburdened.

I see you giving your love generously to others, even as you so often refrain from asking for love or support for yourself.

I see how strong you've been.  How strong you are.  How you lend your strength to leave the world better than you found it.

I see you. 

And on this Valentine's week, and every day, I hope that being seen enfolds you "Closer to Love." ❤️‍🩹

As the song by Mat Kearney describes, "we're all one phone call from our knees."  

Whether you've already received many of these calls "out of the grey", or whether there is one you yet dread, may you know you are seen, you are loved, you are worthy and deserving of all the support you want and more than you need.

"And don't apologize for all the tears you've cried.  You've been way too strong now, for all your life."

When you see the opportunity to reach for, request, or receive support, please accept and embrace it.  

You matter.  You make a difference.  I'm so thankful you're here.