This is super helpful to people, I'm sure, and a good reminder for me to continue in this practice.
I LOVE IFS, too, and have found it so helpful. I think I've had the biggest breakthroughs by doing what you've done here ... letting my parts speak and validating them, letting them know they're loved.
Reminds me of these lyrics - “There are days I need to tell myself I’m doing alright/my inner child and my ego get caught up in a knife fight/I get nervous and then I will get out of sight.” - Flesh and Bone, Sammy Rae and The Friends
This is super helpful to people, I'm sure, and a good reminder for me to continue in this practice.
I LOVE IFS, too, and have found it so helpful. I think I've had the biggest breakthroughs by doing what you've done here ... letting my parts speak and validating them, letting them know they're loved.
Just thought I'd share this poem I wrote with the help of ChatGPT about all my parts. :)
All Aboard the Bus of Life
In the morning's gentle light, a brand-new day unfolds,
I’ll gather all my parts, embrace the tales they hold.
Come, hop aboard the Bus of Life, a journey we'll embark,
Where the Self shall take the wheel, through the light and dark.
Oh, parts of mine, diverse and grand, with voices strong and true,
It's time to join our hands as one, a colorful, joyful crew.
To the front of the bus, let the Self take its seat,
With calmness and clarity, and curiosity so sweet.
Mary, emerge from the basement with its shadows deep,
Embrace the blooming garden; in joy and wonder steep.
Carry, my young companion, burdened by sadness' plight,
Discover your brilliance now, and let your spirit fly.
Pissed-Off, my dear one, let your weariness be soothed,
Find solace in the peaceful breeze, as anger is gently moved.
Protectors, fierce and loyal, stand tall and firm and true,
Shielding vulnerabilities, guiding the way through.
Firefighters, brave and strong, extinguish old scars' pain,
With courage and compassion, healing is their aim.
Managers, skillful navigators of life's stormy sea,
Bring order and balance, in service of unity.
Exiles, tender souls, yearning to be set free,
Be wrapped in love's embrace, where healing is the key.
For all my parts have roles to play, a gift to bring along,
Let's dance through life together, in harmony, in song.
So rise, my parts, and take your place, with laughter and delight,
Let's embark on this adventure, let's soar to stunning heights.
And as the sun arises, painting skies so vast,
May all my parts assemble, facing the day steadfast.
With the Self as the captain, steering with grace and care,
I embrace the magic within me, a treasure beyond compare.
We let the Bus of Life set forth, with joy its sacred goal,
Uniting radiant parts anew, their brilliance makes me whole.
And as the morning dawns again, my heart will truly see,
The beauty of my wholeness, the miracle that is we.
Thank you for sharing this beautiful poem, Roshana! Lots of great words, but these are probably my favorite verses:
Oh, parts of mine, diverse and grand, with voices strong and true,
It's time to join our hands as one, a colorful, joyful crew.
To the front of the bus, let the Self take its seat,
With calmness and clarity, and curiosity so sweet.
Reminds me of these lyrics - “There are days I need to tell myself I’m doing alright/my inner child and my ego get caught up in a knife fight/I get nervous and then I will get out of sight.” - Flesh and Bone, Sammy Rae and The Friends
Great lyrics, thanks for sharing them!