Being Grateful
Exploring What Gratitude Means & Exciting News
I am thrilled to share some wonderful news—I've recently secured a publishing deal with Jessica Kingsley Publishers for a book exploring body dysmorphia and the lived experiences of gay men. This subject is profoundly personal to me, resonating deeply with my own experiences and the continuous journey towards healing and understanding myself and my past traumas.
The announcement of my book deal on social media was met with heartwarming support. It's both humbling and uplifting to know that there are people out there who root for me, cheer on my successes and accept me for who I truly am.
My path to healing has been anything but straightforward. Along the way, I faced numerous challenges; doors were shut in all walks of life, which sometimes made the journey feel even more isolating. Interestingly, it was through these unconventional methods of healing, away from traditional paths, that I found my voice. I learned to channel the intense urge to complain into a force for self-expression and connection, recognising the silent battles many of us face.
Throughout this journey, I've been fortunate to encounter incredible teachers who I'm eternally grateful to—some who offered nothing more than a silent presence, providing a space for me to rest my weary mind as it worked through layers of deeply ingrained trauma.
Gratitude
Gratitude, for me, represents a profound recognition of the support and silent strength offered by others, playing an indispensable role in navigating and healing from personal trauma.
Gratitude is more than a feeling; it's a transformative experience that shifts our focus from what's missing to what's abundantly present. It nurtures the soul, mends the heart, and renews the mind, making it essential in the journey of healing. Each psychedelic experience I encounter consistently reinforces this perspective, leaving me eternally grateful for the people in my everyday life who contribute to my growth. It helps us appreciate both past and present influences, anchoring us in a positivity that fosters both mental and emotional well-being.
Mindfulness Exercise:
Let's take a moment to close our eyes. Imagine entering an elevator and descending several floors. As the doors open, you find yourself in a beautiful garden—your personal sanctuary. Walk towards your favourite meditation spot and take a seat.
Take a deep breath in, and as you exhale, bring to mind the person that immediately comes to mind when you say the word “gratitude.”. Hold onto that image as you breathe slowly and deeply. With each inhale, absorb all the warmth, support, and kindness they have extended towards you; with each exhale, release your deep appreciation back to them.
Allow yourself to fully immerse yourself in the feelings of gratitude. What emotions are surfacing? Remain in this state as long as you need, fully experiencing gratitude in the present moment.
When you feel ready, gently open your eyes. Grab your journal and let the pen flow freely, capturing every word that naturally emerges from your consciousness. Write about this experience, detailing the emotions and insights that arose during your meditation.
Thank you for taking the time to read this piece! If it resonated with you, I'd greatly appreciate a 'Like'. Your likes play a significant role in enhancing the visibility of my work through the Substack algorithm. Your support means a lot. Thank you!
Congratulations on your book deal! I can't wait to read it 🙏🏽💖