The heart of the matter.

In order to understand others, we’ve got to step back from it a little bit. Plus, also remember our intentions. We’d like the world to be a better place. Right? You would like appropriate actions to occur? Do we aim to facilitate and help people?

As I convey my desires and aspirations here, it is crucial to return to the harmony that lies at the core of our existence. It is important to recognize that it is not solely about our personal wants. The reason we strive for a better world is to foster greater understanding of well-being, connection, harmony, compassion, and love among people.

We desire for people to have abundance and for their needs to be met. The reason we push against those we consider to more ignorant in thinking than us, is the belief that we want to make the world a better place? However, in time, we discover that we cannot force anyone to change.

In other words, when we realize that verbally abusing harms ourselves, undermines the mission of necessary change. I acknowledge that there have been instances where I have exhibited snarkiness and unpleasant behavior. I recognize the need for change and aware of my own behavior.

We are all connected; we are all one. When you understand that we are likely to damage ourselves in the process, it becomes evident that, despite our intentions to make the world a better place, such behavior does not necessarily lead the world to a better place.

When we push against those we perceive as less informed, it’s often driven by a sincere hope to improve the world, though the methods and attitudes lead us nowhere and misunderstandings.

The challenge lies in balancing the desire to share knowledge and the recognition that everyone is on their own unique journey of understanding. Be kind. Show compassion. Make space for others to join you.

Creating a better world involves empathy, patience, and the willingness to listen and learn from one another. By embracing these qualities, we can work together towards a more inclusive and enlightened society.

It’s a profound and ongoing journey, and every step towards understanding counts toward unity.

Believe me, I have my moments when I feel like I could choke some people because there is no reaching them. lol Instead, this leads to a bitter existence and an unloving heart toward others.

I have met many great people here, but they have become bitter, toxic, distrustful, paranoid, and prone to making assumptions. Every word you say to them is taken defensively or picked apart to mean something personal directed at them, among many other issues. I just don’t see how change happens in these behaviors. Well, not too much of anything, except to the echo chambers they preach in, and nothing changes in that.

“Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the process he does not become a monster. And if you gaze long enough into an abyss, the abyss will gaze back into you.” – Friedrich Nietzsche

I believe humanity still has a long way to go. I have a long way to go to be better than I was yesterday.

Every day, we all make good and bad decisions, and then, we are given a new day to existence, a new chance to make better decisions. I believe it is about love and doing the right thing. Each new day offers us an opportunity to change who we are and how we approach things.

Again, support others. Be kind. Show compassion. Make space for others to join you. Reach out.

Love, Peace, Unity

Jen (The TreeSpirit)

Dedication :. When a person is mired in, it becomes a lens through which every interaction and situation is viewed. Their fear, experiences, and suffering spills over onto others.

A ever flowing river.

“A quote ,”Love is but the discovery of ourselves in others”.

Seeing a piece of ourselves in another person is like finding a mirror to our souls. When we do, an instant bond forms, that instant bond feels like a key unlocking the door. When all judgment is set aside, what remains is a shared connection that unites us all..

Finding even the smallest part of ourselves in someone else can be a source of joy, as it means there is someone who is similar to us in certain aspects. There’s a profound sense of comfort in that realization.

For me, its like finding a piece of the puzzle that fits perfectly.

Those moments of connection, no matter how small, weave the fabric of my heart and our shared existence. Finding those little things, are a bit of love within me. Its a part of my search for peace and harmony. Many of us have, at times, have forgotten what it is truly to feel and be whole, to try and understanding, and find a bit of ourselves in another person. So much of life rips and shatters us to pieces leaving us distance and distracted.

Life can be full of finding the differences. Yes, you’re different and I am okay with that.

There are so many inventions of the illusory mind (That we create), that attempts to cast a shadow over our hearts. When we strip away these illusions. We can perceive the beauty of our collective existence; it resides within the vast tunnels of our hearts, for some tucked away only waiting to emerge, for others they’ve hidden, locked away .

We are all woven into the vast tapestry of the universe, entwined in the circle of truth and consciousness. It serves as a reminder to peer beyond the surface, to seek the concealed within, and to recognize the deep connections that exist within us to unite us together..

Opening those tunnels breaks the dam, allowing love to flow like running water and immerse us.

Love is Consciousness and an ever-flowing river.

You are Love, remember that.

Remember to show that.

@Jen /The Tree Spirit

I know how to Speak.

Don’t wait until your words are perfect ..

I believe the greatest things ever said or written have never actually been spoken or penned; they simply resonate in our hearts.

And, that seems very sad.

A silent, unspoken connection that binds us to these profound truths within , within you. But maybe it’s not entirely sad. Perhaps it’s what makes the human experience uniquely profound. Those resonations, while intangible, shape our lives in ways spoken words never could.

They’re the soul’s whispers.

What compels us to believe that something must be perfect before we express it? Perfectionism—it’s a crafty beast. It’s often driven by a fear ingrained, a belief that anything less than perfect isn’t worth. Yet, it is the cracks of imperfection that define the pieces of us.

That’s where real connection happens—when we dare to be imperfect.

We all struggle the challenge. We all have something we wish to convey, an inner voice to express, a story to share with the world, or simply with one individual. Many of us never progress beyond our thoughts, hindered by the belief that we cannot articulate them flawlessly or received in the intent they are meant.

Some of us set out to craft our “perfect moment,” laboring over it incessantly, and in doing so… well, words remain unspoken, and opportunities to express to share ourselves are lost.

There are few who genuinely speak from the heart, as I do. People find it unusual and strange because I truly care or express heartfelt thoughts. However, some rarely reveal their true feelings to others.

I believe that, at its core, it’s fear. Deep down, we understand that nothing is perfect, which is why we often keep things to ourselves. We fear the judgment of others: they might spot the flaws, dislike it, reject it, hurt our feelings, or perhaps most painfully, they might not even acknowledge it when we wish to share it with them.

I’ve often wondered why anyone would care about my thoughts. Yet, I’ve realized that sharing them completes a part of me more than if I kept them to myself. I’m not perfect, but my words are filled with love, compassion, and heartfelt honesty.

What’s on your mind? Perhaps there’s something you wish to convey to someone. What restrains you? Sharing your heartfelt, albeit imperfect, words promise to impact more than keeping them to yourself. Indeed, by sharing your story or us listening, we can change a life… theirs.

My words are; if I cannot share the words of my heart with “you” then who can I? Life would have no meaning to me..

“I know how to Speak..”

So let go of your shame

It’s a dead, dampening blanket

Jen

The ghost of you.

One day, the light will ascend, bathing the world in the eclipse of stars, and it will reveal me. Not the labels, not the masks, nor the roles you presumed I play, but my true illuminated self. A soul, an entire universe of experiences, my tapestry of the soul intertwined with the essence of nature. Unity itself will whisper to you, and in that moment, you will perceive the depth that dwells within.

But now, you dwell in the depths of darkness, hidden behind blinders that obscure, drifting past without truly seeing. I perceive only the specter of what once was, now long forgotten. Your memories and connection feel like distant echoes, haunting our present with their absence. It’s both beautiful and melancholic.

The ghost of you.

The battles we must fight.

It is disheartening to see that standing up for compassion and empathy can be so readily dismissed. How has treating lives with respect and kindness become a controversial stance? It seems that promoting kindness and compassion is now considered debatable, even to the point of being labeled as extreme.

This often gives me much to ponder. Honestly, I struggle with it most of the time; how can one even argue against it?

“They mask it with terms like “personal choice” or “freedoms,” claiming a right to pursue the greatest injustice or inequality possible, stemming from the bitterness in their hearts, while using these perceived freedoms as a shield.”

The irony of using personal freedoms as a shield for injustice or inequality—it’s frustrating, to say the least. Humanity loves doing it. It highlights how principles can be twisted to justify harmful actions. It’s a reminder of why it’s crucial to stay vigilant and uphold genuine values of equality and compassion.

We possess inherent rights to express ourselves, yet the manner in which we exercise these rights reflects greatly on our character and our dedication to the betterment of all life on this planet.

Compassion should never be a matter of controversy. However, in these turbulent times, it’s evident how much humanity has strayed from its path. It is vital to remain diligent in cultivating the essential virtues of empathy and compassion, consistently reflecting on our own shortcomings, and those who also lack them. It’s about remembering our shared humanity, even when it feels like the world’s gone off the rails.

Yet, it’s crucial to hold on to those values, even when it feels like an uphill battle. Every step forward, every act of compassion, makes a difference. But the world always needs those warriors who champion kindness, even when it’s tough. It’s through their relentless effort that meaningful change happens.

Being labeled as ‘too sensitive’ does not offend me, as I associate sensitivity with having an open heart, advocating for the eradication of inequality, fostering compassion, and upholding the right to equal and kind treatment for all life—traits that are so vacant in this world.

Are you a safe space?

It’s quite frustrating when people misinterpret your intentions, assuming you’re arguing when you’re merely expressing yourself or concerned.

Misunderstandings happen; however, there are times when I feel some individuals seem determined not to understand, regardless of our efforts. It can feel as though they are deeply invested in misinterpreting every word you say.

I question was I overly critical? Did I come from a place of love or concern? Did I use any harsh words?

Let see, No..

Counting 1..2…3.. Taking a slow, deep breath. I AM NOT ARGUING WITH YOU! lol

Some people won’t allow you an inch to express how you feel. They impact you because they’re responding to triggers within themselves, which in turn makes you feel worse. Unknowingly or purposely at times varies in individuals.

Ultimately, disagreement often becomes a battle fueled by the desire to be “right,” or it may be a facade for underlying hurt, pain, or suffering, driven by the energy to not admit they are.

Avoid people who do not provide a safe environment for you to express yourself, or feelings, or to be yourself; they will vilify and demonize you at every opportunity.

Jen

When doesn’t feel right, Go Left.

Individuality often seems to be a challenge for many, and how people convert to belong or be accepted. There are numerous subjects and ideologies to engage with in life, beyond just fitting into a clique. Then spending your life trying to fit in often ends up being about seeking to please others. The more you listen to, abide by, and are coerced by others, the more you find your definition of yourself is shaped by someone else.

We live in a world with social media that bombards us with enhanced/filtered versions of nearly everything, fostering a belief that we must always strive for more. It’s no surprise that many struggle with feelings of inadequacy and not being enough.

We need to be successful. richer, slimmer, happier, prettier/ handsomer, or different in some way. The point is the beauty lies in our diversity; there is no one way or the right way.

It is unfortunate that we frequently feel obliged to judge and scrutinize each other, like we’re doing people a huge favor, resulting in the pressure to change themselves to “fit in” with others’ perceptions or beliefs of what they should be. The yearning to be accepted for who we are is deeply ingrained in our nature, yet few are ready to take the step to accept others.

I consciously steer clear of internet groups, gurus, and so-called purpose intellectuals who adopt a ‘my way or the highway’ approach to things. My decisions are not heavily influenced by others, although there are a few individuals I hold in high regard.

Choosing not to seek approval or conform surpasses the need for others’ validation of your worth or meaning, and it can change your entire life. It’s a transformative experience that liberates you from the pressures of trying to impress or fit in. Embracing your own value and purpose can lead to a more fulfilling and authentic existence.

I am a bit too resilient for conversion tactics. When you have no safety nets and have fallen face-first on the pavement time and again, all by yourself, you don’t need to pledge allegiance to any group because you can stand alone and picked your own self up.

The need to belong is a powerful force within humanity, leading many to join various groups, often at the expense of their individuality. Birds of a feather flock together, but I don’t…lol. I possess a strong sense of self and individuality, which sometimes may be an obstacle. Standing out from the crowd can be challenging, yet it also signifies staying true to oneself, and not surrender our personal essence to others nor groups.

“Don’t change so people will like you; be yourself and the right people will love you.” ~Unknown

Jen

Trees

I am a tree; they are symbolically me.( Points at her profile picture.. )

I think we naturally and symbolically link ourselves to things that resemble who we are. Trees are a symbol and have a profound connection with us humans. They are often a bridge between us and unity, offering a sense of peace, balance, and wholeness.

I’ve always felt a profound connection with trees, perceiving them as sentient beings that resonate with my own wholeness. This bond is not merely physical, but also an emotional and spiritual one for me.

Like trees, we grow upward and outward, with many unique twists and turns that create our own unique beauty, while remaining firmly rooted. We encounter a variety of challenges and changes, yet we persist in growing and adapting, becoming united as a forest.

“I am , ” A Willow”

I always thought myself to be a Willow tree.

They symbolize fulfilling wishes of the heart.

Alone with myself, the trees, they bend to caress me.

Their shade hugs my heart.

I am the willow of the wilderness.

The wildness of the wind around me that bends.

All my life, compassed into reflection,

all that comes before my eyes faithfully.

A silent spectator, an onlooker.

I stand, I see many familiar and unfamiliar,

reflections of me.

Through the trees..

Jen

See yourself

We’ve been conditioned to think that unconditional self-love and acceptance is wrong, which is why many of us endure the misfortune of being disconnected from our true selves.

This world often values appearance over authenticity, granting more clout, popularity, and respect to those who are not genuine. Consequently, the price to pay for fitting in can be steep, and as unfortunately as it is, unauthentic tends to attract considerable attention.

In our desire to assimilate into society, we often fail to recognize even a trace of our true selves. The cost of this is the suppression of our authenticity or individuality. I advocate for firmly maintaining my own as I do for others.

Society frequently imposes expectations upon us: In our efforts to conform, we often overlook the qualities that truly matter in individuals—truth, honesty, compassion, and loyalty.

Do some truly believe that in the end, superficial things will matter? Ultimately, they will fade away, and what remains is what lies within us to give or be given. The most treasured gifts we can offer each other are not superficial or demands of control but are the enduring bonds that weave us together as one. Love transcends appearances, age, and circumstances.

It is the quiet strength that sustains us.

The effort to meet societal standards can be draining. We often find ourselves filtering out every part of who we are just to fit in. We meticulously examine every curve, blemish, and wrinkle. Every fault and flaw of someone else. We shape ourselves to conform to the same molds as everyone else, striving to resemble one another. The cost? Uniformity.

I’m not trying to see you in the mirror, but myself, I will not conform to your thoughts of ME.

Jen

You’re not alone and never were.

We can find ourselves lost and utterly isolated, vanishing into the night as our misery engulfs us. Yet, we can still discern our path. Engulfed in pain, we remain aware of our identity, our past, and our origins, before we are consumed by our own anguish about life. We often blind ourselves, falling repeatedly into a black hole, failing to see beyond the yearning of our hearts for something greater.

It is possible to go through life without experiencing a truly transcendent moment, yet still fail to connect to something greater than ourselves. However, once we feel we can’t find a profound and lasting connection, we may fall into a deep pit of despair where life’s joy seems unattainable.

We all experience pain and sorrow that can overwhelm our lives, leaving us feeling lost and isolated. With so few of us truly finding, caring for, or deeply knowing one another, it’s not surprising that we often fail to see our connection to each other, and awaken to the existence of that connection to another.

We inexplicably suffer the gut-wrenching experience of making ourselves believe there is nothing more. Such realizations plunge us into every conceivable doubt about life. It throws us into every doubt we might have about life and other people. Pain cripples us from the power of love, that frees ourselves from the demons of solitude.

“At the end of the day we’re all just humans.

We are all living lives that we don’t know the ultimate purpose for.

We’re all just trying to figure it out.

We’re all just trying to be happy.

To be safe. And to be loved.”

Jen

To a friend: You’re not alone and never were.

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1Deb Merricks