When silence hurts

There comes a time when silence is betrayal.

~ Martin Luther King Jr.

We’ve all done it, condoning bad behaviour just to fit in, othering to feel a sense of belonging.

Sometimes we don't speak up just to keep a job - we have mouths to feed and bills to pay.

It takes great courage to question authority, experts, and the science that can become religion, to stand up for what we believe is right, to be authentic.

Rebelliousness is trained out of us at an early age. We become obedient. Critical thinking is out the door.

Over time, so is peace of mind.

In my quest to address the emotional underlying causes of dis-ease, I came across the Five Reiki Principles created by Mikao Usui in the 1920s to promote emotional balance, mindfulness, and ethical living.

To simplify our journey towards self-improvement and spiritual growth, we are encouraged to apply these principles "just for today".

Instead of feeling overwhelmed by long-term commitments, we can focus on making positive changes in our thoughts, feelings and behaviours one day at a time.

The five principles are:

1. Do not anger: Acknowledge anger without letting it control your actions or block the flow of healing energy.

2. Do not worry: Release anxiety about the past or future to stay grounded in the present moment.

3. Be grateful: Cultivate appreciation for your blessings to enhance well-being and align with positive energy.

4. Work honestly: Perform your duties with integrity, diligence, and authenticity, whether in professional or personal contexts.

5. Be kind to every living thing: Extend compassion and respect to all beings, including yourself, animals, and nature.

So simple, yet so powerful.

Principle number four struck a chord. At times in my life I did not have the courage to question unethical behaviour in the corporate world.

I'm not an activist, but eventually I did become an advocate for change.

I can honestly say part of the reason my resumé virtues are lacklustre later in life is that the health and wellness opportunities that came my way didn’t resonate with my core values. My husband would say, I just want to help, not sell.

Closing thought

Your truest voice may be small at first, but it carries the strength of your life.

~ Oliver Kane

I’m not a Reiki practitioner. But I have witnessed miracle healings in my life. If applying the five principles can help, I will practice them just for today.