If you are looking for a counsellor, you may not be able to see your astonishing light within at the moment, or even believe that it is exists. Going to therapy takes courage and sometimes it is hard to find a way into the door of the counselling room. Poetry, stories, music, a painting, all art can reach you on a relational level, communicating empathy and belonging. Reflecting on your own on what moves you in a poem, a song or a painting is a good way to start accessing your emotions. Talking about it with a counselllor can deepen your understanding while you develop kindness towards yourself.
My Brilliant Image by Hafez
One day the sun admitted,
I am just a shadow.
I wish I could show you
The Infinite Incandescence
That has cast my brilliant image!
I wish I could show you,
When you are lonely or in darkness,
The astonishing Light
Of your own Being!
My Brilliant Image by the 14th century Persian poet Hafez resonates with my understanding of both humanity and counselling. It is a reflection on life being challenging. You might be feeling lonely or in darkness, experience anxiety, bullying, abuse, microaggressions. Or everyday life has become too overwhelming and exhausting. Maybe you have lost your sense of self, not recognising yourself anymore. I believe that art as well as counselling can support you.
Like therapy, Hafez’s poem encourages us to examine our experiences, emotions, beliefs and self-view, to gain insight into our authentic selves. Hafez reminds you how brilliant you are. With compassion and love, he invites you to search for meaning, self-reflection and awareness. Hafez expresses what I see in my clients: the astonishing light of your own being.