The key to peace

I love getting to know the soul of those I talk to. And recently I learned that “soul” can interchange with the word “heart.” I like to get to know the heart of those I associate with. I love connecting on a deep level. I believe the key to peace is connection.

On the way home from a flight to New York where I was visiting my brother a few years ago, I got a seat right in the middle of the row on the airplane. The first thing that I said to the man on the aisle seat as I was squeezing past him was, “I promise I wont need to go pee.” He laughed, and for the next 4 hours we chatted. I got to know his heart! His soul. Toward the end of the flight he mentioned that he feels like he had known me forever. The feelings were mutual. 

I believe that when I am my true authentic self, it gives others the opportunity to be themselves. I was able to learn about his family and his childhood and his parents and his career. I also was able to learn what made him sad or frustrated and happy. We had a lot in common. I felt safe to share about all aspects of my life too.

It seems it’s easier to open up to strangers. You may never see them again, and they don’t know you. That makes it easy to spill your heart to them. But you leave each other connected on a level that is hard to explain. 

I think it’s a spiritual experience to connect on this level.

Another experience recently, where I met my coach and mentor. It was unlike any experience I have ever had. I found myself asking myself after each zoom call, what was it that was making me feel so... happy, so connected. So alive. And it was because of the way that he made me feel seen. There was no judgment. He was just there to listen. To guide. He trusted me. I trusted him. I was authentic and honest and real. And so was he. It was reciprocated. And it was beautiful and powerful. A friendship I will forever hold dear!

I now know how I want to show up. How I want to speak and connect with others. This is the key to peace!

J❤️