An insight for those who fear we are too much like our parents

[MamaDryad]

I wrote this in my journal today and thought it might be useful for others as well.

By noticing my first impulse, I can begin to understand my mother. By declining to act on it, I can heal, grow, and break the curse.

[Cat of the Canals]

I love this! It reminds me of something a heard a few years ago that has always stuck with me. I can never remember the exact quote, but it's something along the lines of, "Your first thought is how you've been conditioned to think. Your second thought (and action) is who you really are."

I'm no stranger to emotional reactions or judgmental thoughts, but almost always, my second thought is "Well, I guess I'll have to figure out how I'm going to deal with these feelings." or "But it's not any of my business so I wish that person the best, even if I don't understand their choice." A far cry from my mother's second thought and action, which always involves reasserting control.

[Andeza]

That is quite good. I'm going to start using that. Definitely need some work in that area.

[FoggedFrog]

Thank you for sharing! I really like this. It's something I have been pondering lately. We all get traits from our FOO. This however does not mean we are doomed to repeat them. It is possible to have similar traits, learn from past mistakes made, and use the traits/energy in a more positive way. This is a learning process for sure.