Leaning Into Discomfort: Transforming Your Life
Mar 19, 2025“Fiction is crisis.” I was reminded of this Jonathan Mayberry quote in a recent article in
Writer’s Digest. Ryan Given Cleave wrote how fiction is all about the character’s messy
life. You don’t write about a bunch of happy people having a lovely day. “Instead, it’s
about embracing tension, challenges, and the need for problem-solving. The heart of
every story lies in conflict.”
On the same day, I was in my spiritual direction peer group when the presenter noted that all
directees seeking spiritual direction had experienced some form of trauma which
shaped their lives. There is a recurring crisis or conflict. They do not seek spiritual
direction because everything is hunky-dory and perfect in their lives. They come to us to
consolidate the understanding of an imperfect, harsh world to an all-loving deity.
Where is God in this mess?
One of my answers states that God is right there within our conflicts, our mess, our
strife. Especially in the times when it feels as if God is far away from us. Often, we need
this reminder of God’s closeness.
My place as a spiritual director is to help others embrace or at the very least lean into
the tension which life holds. I’ve found an interesting paradox which surfaces whenever
I lean into what is uncomfortable. I start with my curiosity. Why am I uncomfortable?
Where am I feeling tension in my body? What can I learn about myself in this situation?
Healing deep traumas requires gentle care and guidance. It can take years or even a
lifetime. Self-care and patience are key.
Embracing discomfort and leaning into our feelings can be incredibly transformative.
Often, our discomfort holds the key to understanding ourselves better and uncovering
hidden strengths. By exploring these feelings, we can grow and find peace, even amid struggles.
Are you encountering conflict within your story, or facing a crisis where you are seeking
clarity and meaning?
~Katie Rea, WTC Writing Coach
Feel free to join us here on Wisdom Tree Collective on Thursday, March 20th as Abby Buter Oakhart leads an important workshop discussing Trauma-Informed Spiritual Direction. Sign up here!
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