December 4, 2011 Posted by Jennie in Jennie

Tags: personal, psychology

Paradox: Introduction

Paradox: A statement or proposition that seems self-contradictory or absurd but in reality expresses a possible truth

Life is a paradox. We all strive to LIVE yet how we live is never what we imagine and dream of. We become prisoners to the ideals that were cultivated by others who were no more happier and healthier than we are. Many of us live in the world filled with should haves and regrets. Even so, change is hard and the life we really want seems impossible to reach. The cycle of motionlessness continues...

I am a therapist working towards a doctoral degree in clinical psychology. After my coursework was completed, I took a break leaving my dissertation and internship requirements unfinished. After years of juggling schoolwork, practicums, and a full time job, I needed free time for myself. During this time, I met the tribe who openly welcomed me into their lives. They have added color into my life and guided and supported me in my self development as an individual and as a professional. The lessons I've learned from each one of them are invaluable and further enhance the person I am and who I am working to become. I am truly grateful for each one of them, especially Elaine for having all the patience in the world to teach me what LOVE really is. With the love and support from the tribe, I am back on track. I am working on my dissertation with one more chapter to complete and I have applied for internship. (I hope I get placed!)

Recently, a friend of mine who is a psychologist told me to "Stay off the web" when I told him that I had pictures posted online. I assume this statement was meant to help me. It was to make sure I don't cross the line in order to maintain the status of a professional therapist and psychologist to be. However, this comment was judgmental and limiting. Are therapists supposed to be people who are ultra conservative and forbidden to show their own emotional expressions? Are they to hide in caves and barely exist in the world other than to come out once in a while to do a 1:1 session? Are they not supposed to LIVE?

Therapists are not only guides who help others make positive changes for healthier living, they are also role models to inspire and help others see their true potential as a whole individual. We all have different facets of who we are that make us unique. We all have individual interests and, if lucky, passions in our life that truly make life worth living. If a therapist was limited in their own views of life and lived within the confines of their prison, how then could they help others reach happiness? Elaine taught me that life isn't about compromises and needless sacrifices. It's about accepting all of who you are and nurturing those beautiful parts of you that make you feel alive. That is true therapy.

Life isn't about living within limits. It's about having beautiful colors radiating outward to show the world what life is really about. This is my personal journey and I welcome anyone who is willing to come along for the ride.