The Elijah Project: Who am I?

Last blog I shared that I am working through The Elijah Project in a group setting. The first activity is called: Who am I? We spent some very valuable time drawing pictures of how we felt. I very seldom spend time coloring. I've decided that coloring all by itself is cathartic. Below is a copy of my picture from last weeks group.

My daughter just looked over my shoulder and asked: "Mommy why does your doll picture have x's on the eyes?" Last week when I colored this picture I felt all kinds of different feelings. One of the valuable parts of doing self-care and introspective work is that we get to take a snap shot of what we are feeling at that moment in time. Our feelings very well may change the next moment - but it is a picture of what we are feeling then. Last week when I drew x's over my eyes it was because I genuinely felt that I could not see clearly. I knew that I was mis-perceiving the feelings, needs and even criticism those around me. *I also wrote squiggles out of my mouth. That was because I knew I had lost my governor. I was allowing things to flow out of my mouth with out checking it first. One of my symptoms of exhaustion is speaking before thinking. In fact if I was a better artist I would draw hands at my mouth grabbing my words and putting htem back in my mouth. *I drew red squiggles on my forehead because I had a headache. I still have a headache. Obviously identifying that I'm exhausted has not "fixed" it all yet. *I drew purple bands with an arrow to my shoulders because I hold all my tension in my shoulders and they were... ARE tight. *I drew a yellow outline around my figure because I honestly feel good about my choices over the past few months - even though I am tired, I feel I have lived life well! *I colored my arms and legs because I feel generally all over connected. *Finally I gave myself a proportional heart because my heart is definitely there. I feel it! I encourage you to take some time to draw a picture - a snap shot of how you are feeling TODAY!

The Elijah Project: Just Jump In!

The Elijah Project (My Protector, My Provider) is designed to meet the needs of people who tirelessly serve others. The Elijah Project provides resources for you, the precious caregiver to rest and renew your soul. Last Tuesday I began a journey with five individuals at New Day Yoga and Wellness, to exit the whirlwind called life and rest in God's arms. The group members were each seeking healing from different things. We had one thing in common. We agreed to slow down one evening a week for the next eight weeks and evaluate how we feel, what we think and where we want to go in our lives. When I returned home last Tuesday night, I felt relaxed and little less burdened. I felt hopeful. I also felt like I wanted to share the process with those who could not attend the group or the Live Hope Restored Gathering we are hosting at Green Lake Conference Center (February 15-16th). So, for the next eight weeks I am going to share a "read along". A time for you to stop, reflect and process where you are in life and where you are going. The best way to introduce the work is by sharing from heart to yours. Andrea's story: Last Tuesday night I was far from the expert on rest. I entered the room to facilitate group from one of the most exhausted places I have been in a long time. Over the past six months I had shared my home with 8-12 people at a time. I seriously set the table every night for an average of 10 people. It was messy, lovely, intense and heartwarming. Over the Holidays we had visits from my side of the family and Perry's side of the family. Again - messy, lovely, intense, and heartwarming. I wouldn't change a thing. During this time I finished writing my latest book: My Protector, My Provider. I prepared for our annual board gathering in Chicago. I also continued to be a wife, mother, sister, daughter, professional and friend. Sometimes I filled those roles well and sometimes poorly. But in order to be honest, I have to admit that I was emotionally exhausted. Pooped! I needed everything to stop. I needed to rest my head (both physically and mentally). I tell you all of this because I am not approaching this project as an expert. NO! Instead I am joining you as a co-laborer or journey-woman. I am excited to learn, grow and blossom by taking some time to identify - WHO I AM? today and WHO I WANT TO BE TOMORROW! So... download the workbook: www.touchedtwiceunited.org or purchase a book for $10 and plunge in! Just jump in!!!!