This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they’re a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice,
meet them at the door laughing,
and invite them in.
Be grateful for whoever comes,
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.
Rumi, translated by Coleman Barks
Well, it’s not like most of you won’t have seen this poem before. But originality isn’t my aim. The first line of this verse is constantly in my head, right now. It haunts me. Because it so perfectly reflects what I am feeling about this latest challenge in my life: this new journey through illness after so many decades blessed with fitness and good health. I feel fortunate that this has happened to me when I’m older. When I recognise, so very much more than I would have done had I been younger, that all such ‘guests’ really ARE just the teachers we need, and arrive at our door at just the time when we need them.
I’m a very short distance along what will be a months-long path, and I can’t begin to imagine all of the things I’m going to learn from this new guest. But the lessons have already been profound. The first of this guest’s gifts that I’d like to share with you is the memory of kindness. I never expected that. Kindness, in what so often seems like an impossibly unkind world. Since I took the difficult (for super-private old me) decision to ‘go public’ with news of my lymphoma and chemotherapy, the outpouring of kindness I’ve received in return has been overwhelming. Hundreds of supportive emails; thousands of heartfelt comments on Facebook and Instagram. My husband, a cynic, rolled his eyes at first and told me it’s easy to be nice to someone who has cancer. But there’s more than just ‘niceness’ behind the gifts that so many of you have given with your words. And it’s hard to tell you all how much it has mattered.
The world I inhabit – writing, teaching, the ‘public eye’ – really isn’t always quite so generous. There is support and community for sure, but there’s a surprising amount of envy (for what?) and competitiveness. There are cliques, exclusions, people who believe they ‘own’ entire fields of thought, endeavour and imagination. It’s the same everywhere, I know, but it seems to me to be all the more shocking when it happens among those of us who are supposed to be in service to something that’s just, simply, better than that. Such things, especially when they come from people who really are not ‘walking their talk’, make you cautious; they make you hold back. They harden your heart, and sometimes, they can break it. There is a woman who I once helped and whose work I facilitated, who has conducted a hate campaign against me now for the best part of eight years, for imagined sins that I think she knows in some honest part of her heart I didn’t ever commit. If she knew how much pain she’d caused, I think there’s also a softer part of that heart that might regret it. I dream of her regularly; in those dreams we are reconciled, and laugh together at our mutual foolishness. I wake up from them wanting to weep. The anger passed long ago; the hurt has passed now, too, wiped away by the kindness of others. Some things just can’t be reconciled. Reaching out didn’t help in the past; it’s not going to help now. Some things, we have to learn to let go. And still turn to look for kindness and heart elsewhere in the world. One unkindness doesn’t mean that the world is unkind. You know, that’s not nearly as obvious as it sounds. I ran the risk of believing the opposite to be true. I don’t believe that any more. Welcome, kindness. Welcome, lesson-wielding guest. I’m a very short distance along what will be a months-long path. ‘Every morning a new arrival.’ What on earth do you have in store for me next? For what ‘new delight’ are you clearing me out, now?
I have inhabited the Exile archetype all my life. (Note to reading astrologers: Moon in Aquarius!) I’m learning that it’s time to let go of my attachment to it, to shed the illusory cloak of protection it seems to offer. Because this life breaks us open. It’s supposed to. My favourite thing to say: we’re not here to be safe. We’re here to risk everything. And every breaking open strips away a protective shell, reveals another tender layer beneath – until, one day, there’s nothing left to strip away and we reach the core of who we are. I’m grateful that there are still these layers of me to strip away, grateful for the ongoing revelations and opportunities to grow, transform, learn. It’s not over yet. And I’m grateful, in spite of it all, for this rockiest of all rides.
My heart is full of love for you Sharon. I feel so very very blessed to read your words and feel the energy of your heart which you give so freely. May love and light walk beside you always. Odette
Who knows how grace will
greet you this moment, this day, this year.
But will she find you awake
and ready to receive?
~Joseph Grant
May you feel Spirit’s presence in your life and deepen your sense of purpose as you live each day closer to your heart’s particular calling
And even though it is for sure that everything belongs … thus is a time of exfoliation for new beginnings invariably come from old false things that are allowed to die including the e selves of others in our friendships
May God bless you and keep you and my you walk in the presence of those who shelter you best at this tender time and always ??
Thank you Sharon for reminding me I am only still here on this earth because of the kindness of others, many others. Learning to surrender to the expertise of my medical team and my own inner wisdom as I walked the chemo path was big one. Know there are many, many of us walking beside you, holding you in the light – wishing you all the best.
Raven
Just sending you love Sharon. You have changed my life and I am so glad for your presence in the world.
Sharon: deep gratitude for your wisdom and for sharing the ups and downs of your life with us – what courage! I recognize the exile archetype in me. Thank you for voicing that and the knowing that we are not here to be safe but to risk everything – what a profound message for our times.
May your home be blessed with many guests that leave beautiful gifts at your door. And may you be blessed with healing and love every step of the way.
In tears Sharon as such a beautiful poem and words from you as always X I wish you well and know mother nature will help you recover as well as your attitude to be open to what these visitor’s have to tell and show you X strength and healing love to you wise one ????
Just to say the ???? At end of my txt were meant to be hearts and rainbow’s which I send with love xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Dear Sharon, I wish all the best in your journey. You have been important in mine. I heard your podcast by chance and now am on a path of connection with the land and other realms, which help in my work as a doctor. I found chemotherapy put me square into the moment. Many layers of defenses and old stories were shed. I learned to allow help and caring from others. Illnesses are teachers. Thanks for this today, and am sending you wishes for the best and highest good.
An amazing reminder of life as teacher. Wishing, hoping, praying for whatever you need most today and the days to come.
I will be praying for you.Don’t forget God loves you.
Sharon, I have listened to your book “If Women Rose Rooted”, a hundred times. It soothes my soul. Reading your writing here touches my soul again. Thank you for these words. Thank you for your honesty and for sharing your soul with ours. I honour you, your teachings and your journey. One hundred, thousand blessings to you. In light, Cara
I remain ever grateful for your grace, and your pioneering work. I imagine your scrapped knees, elbows and probably even scrapped heart, and remain to honour always always your creative courage to call the imaginal forward.And she responds.
Your post responders here write so exquisitely. The words shared are deeply moving just as the beauty of your Old Crane Woman who cries lifting off her mid steam rock to fly further, to witness more. As Rumi noted, it is the broken amongst us who are ready to heal this world. Imagine the power in the healing occuring in so many broken edges and the many who stand with you at broken edges of self , relationships and of land ? May you arrive in Crane woman,s nest, rested,safe, nourished
Slan agus beannacht Be blessed, be loved,
Merrill
And I always have been grateful that your writings have been a guest in my life. I wish you a good start on this journey. You’ll be in my thoughts.
May Heaven smile on you and the Earth hold you as you embark on your healing journey. May you feel the love and light streaming towards you each day.
Surrounding you with love, light and kindness.
Dear Sharon … my love and thoughts are with you at this time. Thank you for your honesty and you have so many women beside you, some a way ahead, some just getting their maps out. I have had a rocky road for many years and only these past few months understanding the unfolding rose and her message ‘cracked open its happening for you, not to you’ which mirrors what you have said, welcome each guest for their lessons they teach us. I have just re read If Women Rose Rooted, it is as if you are speaking for me, having just moved from Lincolnshire to Northumberland as I wanted a wilder landscape. I have reached Crone years, though prefer to be an Awakened Triple Goddess … am way too much in a comfort zone to take on a croft and an older husband, so my dream is tempered renting a cottage at Duddo with a Bronze Age circle within walking distance on the farm here. So exciting! I am following your Rock and Roots in an attempt to connect here. I hope your lessons are not too harsh, and your healing gentle as soft rain cleansing through xx Jane Fowler
Thank you for today’s poem, it was just what I needed to hear this early morning in the southern Appalachian mountains.(U.S.) Giviing hope and blessings to others has always been your magical gift…and still is, despite your illness. Retract and rest as needed. You are so loved. Tricia Fitzpatrick
Oh what a beautiful post Sharon. Thank you. Thank you indeed- I’m one of the very many individuals behind an email address – an individual who you have almost met but as yet have never met. I ‘meet’ you through your writings and I’m grateful too…for your generous honesty. I’m here. Wishing you well.
Thinking of you, Sharon. Thank you as always for your wise and powerful words. X
Thank you Sharon, rememberer, instigator, provocateur, trigger, wise sage, and foolish risk-taker. Today I really needed to hear your kindness, gently awakening my responsibility towards my happiness and my growth. Thank you for showing the way, going there where very few of us dare to go, saying what very few of us dare to say. I love you for this. I love you in me for this. With much gratitude. Laura, a very ignorant traveler
Thank you! Your letter this month went straight to the core of my being. Wonderful and tender reflections that touch. Not yet sure why they resonate so strongly, but that’s for me to discover in the coming days I suppose. With love from another Aquarian guest house?? Anne Marina
I too, resonate deeply with the words you have written today, Sharon.
Thank you, much wisdom to reflect on x
Since you announced this new chapter in in your life my thoughts are often with you, Sharon. Through your wonderful books you have become one of my favourite humans. I have given special friends in my life your books as gifts, as your writings are filled with wisdom and love. Thankyou for letting us join you on your new journey, we are with you, all of the way. Px
I’ve been thinking so much about you and this I expected turn in the road ahead. Thank you for sharing a bit of your journey with your readers (and patrons!!) We are all with you in spirit.
Wow, that was totally amazing. I hope the treatment isn’t too hard on you and you are accompanied by dear husband and dear dogtor. I woke up in bed and was thinking about you in your leopard skin. Hoping nothing bad was happening to you. Hoping you weren’t feeling too ill. Now, I’ll be hoping for your transformation. I am sending you a hug and a thanks and a wink.
Great soul medicine Keep well
May your path be gentle and kind.
my oh my oh my – we women are rising rooted – a glorious clarion call – rising rising rising with love and courage and support and healing – hearts wide open – Souls on deck … Radiant Kindness
together we are stronger love love love and more love ….
How beautiful you are Sharon
Thank you for your honest sharing. I am moved by your generosity, and hope the kindnesses keep flowing and softening the edges of the exclusions and past hurts.
I have always loved the idea of welcoming and entertaining all the visitors to my guest house- some are more thirsty and greedy than others and some need plenty of attention. May you have an abundance of whatever your visitors need to be sated!
You dear one, are so beloved by many. May the truth of that sink into every cell of your body.
Sadness is visiting me at the moment so I’m away to offer her some hot tea and cake…
Sending much love and appreciation with deep a bow X
Dear Sharon, your writing always awakens something in my heart. Today l applaud softly your openness, the opportunity you have given us to walk alongside you, maybe just a few steps for some but their place will be taken by others and perhaps this is as it should be. There will always be the stalwarts who walk all the journey with you. The Exile, yes, l recognise that, it runs parallel with the Scapegoat, your erstwhile friend made of you a scapegoat and an exile from her land. I bless you for your honesty and will walk beside you on your journey as far as l am able. In some way for each of us who walk with you will be walking our own journey too. Much love Beth
Sorry to hear about your illness Sharon. Your work has had a profound influence on my life and the work that I do as a herbalist in connecting to the land, myself and the ancestors. You are an incredible inspiration to others. I wish you strength, healing and peace. sending love. Edwina
Very wise words cracking open a window in me this morning. I have never seen this poem and never needed it more. Thank you and blessings on your healing journey ???
Dear Sharon, Thank you for your open hearted sharing with your friends. Two years ago I had a CT scan (don’t remember why) that revealed a tumor in a kidney and non-Hodgkins Lymphoma, the kind that does not require intervention.I had surgery to remove the tumor last fall. When I woke up, the entire kidney was gone! We never know what “guest” is going to take residence in our lives, do we? But we must honor them as the teachers we need that will remove everything that obscures our radiance!
Dearest Sharon. I am so grateful for you and for your open, honest and vulnerable wisdom and guidance in the past and even more so now as you travel this difficult road. As many have said, your writings have been a balm and a true guide for me and so many others as we step forward in this wild world each day. My heart is with you during this journey. And as you heal, let earth’s love and longing flow through you. You truly are one of its treasured daughters and we love you with all our hearts. ???
Blessings to you, Sharon!
Your words help and heal even in this time for you.
Know that you are Loved ??
A very beautiful post from a very beautiful soul, connecting heart to heart. Wishing you well, in every sense of the word.
Dear One,
You won’t remember me. Our communications have been brief and business orientated, but you have given me so much peace and comfort through your writings.
The human spirit is an odd thing, a balance of love and hate, envy and pleasure in the achievements of others, encouraging words and sly, underhand unkind whispers behind hands.
Generally though, I believe the good in us as a species outweighs the bad. Kindness,empathy, gentleness and a welcoming, loving heart are our most valuable assets and gifts to one another. You offer them up to friends and strangers in huge quantities, perhaps without always even being aware.
The people in your life who matter are supporting you with loving thoughts. I know from experience that the treatment often feels worse than the illness, but it is worth it in the end. Look after yourself, physically, spiritually and mentally. Just know the gratefulness and love for you abound beyond the people you see or hear from regularly.
With many thanks,
J
Thank you for sharing. These words of yours are very meaningful to me. “Because this life breaks us open. It’s supposed to. My favourite thing to say: we’re not here to be safe. We’re here to risk everything. And every breaking open strips away a protective shell, reveals another tender layer beneath – until, one day, there’s nothing left to strip away and we reach the core of who we are. I’m grateful that there are still these layers of me to strip away, grateful for the ongoing revelations and opportunities to grow, transform, learn. It’s not over yet. And I’m grateful, in spite of it all, for this rockiest of all rides.” I will read these as a meditation. Blessings to you.
Dearest Sharon, speaking as one who has been stripped down to the bone myself with challenges in so many areas of my emotional and physical health life I really do believe that every challenge we are gifted with truly does facet our inner diamond and You are already a very very wise and beautiful soul, just imagine how you will emerge! It may be a long road ahead and mine is still winding onwards but you dearest Sharon are going to be the most beautiful jewel. Your light is so bright that nothing can ever take that away. We all love you and are sending you our healing love every step of the way. Kindest warmest wishes from every woman who’s life has been touched by you and your wisdom. Look forward to that beautiful diamond.
Balsam your WordArt
Balsam for your healing
What beautiful and true words. I could feel them in my body. Thank you for all that your writing has given me. It has been inspiring my art recently.
Wishing you all that you need on this path you are entering. With softness and loving kindness to accompany your every step.
Dearest Sharon
I woke this morning feeling really grumpy, and feeling grey like the sky and the dullness. As I usually do every morning for the last 10 months I rolled out my yoga mat and joined in circle with some incredible women for an online class of yoga asana and meditation. At the end of the hour I still felt grumpy, so showered to see if the emotion would release it didn’t. I then taught an online yoga class which was incredible and my mood lifted slightly. I then proceeded to do a Face Yoga session which included E.F.T. about Dharma (purpose in life). This threw me back into not grumpiness but sadness, a release for the system, I am sitting with it noticing….
I opened your email and read and re read.
It is so interesting that when we need something it appears and it surely did in the guise of your email.
I have only recently been introduced to your work, so to read your last email and respond would have been for me too soon.
However on reading this current email, I too am astounded at the kindness that surrounds us not only in our time of need but always. There are of course people who are jealous and want what we have, or want to make our life difficult in many ways but these are lessons for us although it hurts deeply.
Over the years I have known so many beautiful people who have beaten cancers of all varieties, there are some that have not won unfortunately, some who I hold dear in my heart, family and friends. When we have a positive attitude, one of gratitude for everything in our lives the ups and the downs we are strong.
I am sending you love and healing as I believe we are all connected through our ancestors, even though I may not know you in person the connection is there.
Be strong, be courageous, my gift to you is love xxxxx
Sharon,
Since your first email of opening your heart to us all, you have been closely held in my thoughts. I wasn’t sure what words I wanted to use to express how I felt when I heard your news. I was sad. Your news was sad. As I took my walk today I thought of you. When I arrived home, here always this beautiful email. I want you to know that you came into my life at exactly the right time that I needed to read your words. They have guided me through many difficult and happy moments. If someone ever asks me again who the most influential people have been in your life, you are at the top of the list. We have never met but through your books, workshops, newsletters and wisdom, I feel like we have. For you I am so grateful. Today, I feel a peace shrouding you. You are being held. You are being loved and watched. Sending you love in abundance and I’m so looking forward to seeing what comes next. So mote it be!
Dear Sharon, thank you for being my role model and writing the most glorious book – The Long Delirious Burning Blue. You have been an inspiration in my life and made a beautiful contribution to humanity. Time to rest, recuperate and look after yourself. My thoughts and prayers are with you. With Love from another Sharon.
Sharon dear one, thank you for the invitation to be with you on your journey, it is an honour xx For me, your sharing is full of beauty, tenderness, grace and insight. Thank you for enlivening those threads in me and, from the comments here, many others too.
I too am moon in Aquarius and I know well the exile, as well as the truth advocate/whistle blower and scapegoat archetypes that can accompany this too.
May you have all you need for your journey and feel the light, love and warmth that accompanies you, reaching out to us for anything you need xx
Dear Sharon, I am most sorry to hear of your lymphoma and thank you for your work and these words. Being in a different kind of breaking of deep grief, I know it’s so often hard to feel the wisdom of these words. I wish you self kindness when you cannot see each new cancer event as a guest in the moment, or day, or week, or month. And that you can always return to the comfort of this wisdom. Blessings, Nora
Your work has been a beacon and a solace for me. Thank you for it and for continuing to share what you are learning. Blessings to you.
Your courage and open mind and open heart as you greet your new guest is inspirational. I believe this perspective is deeply healing in and of itself and will be of such benefit to you as you journey through your healing time. All love and blessings and gratitude for all you have shared with the world. Those of us lucky enough to have found your work are truly blessed. The hurt your described, laid upon you by the certain woman, was a sad tale. Being in the public eye is not easy at all. But, you get it! You open to the LOVE that is outpouring for you and keep unhelpful opinions in their place. Thank you, Sharon! xo
Dear Sharon, Thank you deeply for the Rumi poem and your profound interpretation of the poem and this journey we call Life. Yes, dearheart, life really breaks us open. Let me share yet another of Rumi poem – He said: Keep them on the road.
I said: What about my passion?
He said: Keep it burning.
I said: What about my heart?
He said: Tell me what you hold inside it?
I said: Pain and sorrow.
He said: Stay with it. The wound is the place where the Light enters you.
Rumi
with all my love and deep appreciation, Santhi
When you first wrote about your illness and the journey ahead I responded immediately with blessings and warm hugs. I’ve thought of you often since and will keep sending those blessings from afar in the months ahead. Thank you for sharing your journey. It’s already having a meaningful impact on many.
You do not know me,but you are a mentor and inspiration, a companion in the enchanted path, a creative sister and friend, who is so grateful you are in the world and share what you do.
I understand the pain. Of being attacked. Of being ill. Of wanting to hide, and yet feeling called to share. I live in Sedona, the Southwest. One of the places you also love. From these powerful red rocks, that are my home, that inform my person, that are crystaline and alive, I send to you dearest, healing energy and love, from my Goddess Altar, I invoke peace and well being, and yes, the letting go of all that does not serve.
Like your husband, I am an eye-rolling cynic at times too often, but your work has been a gift through the pandemic months and has softened that urge. Sending you reciprocal strength from across the Atlantic, and gratitude for sharing so much insight with your online community through this tortuous year. Strength to you, and softness, and Irish luck. Hugs from a stranger.
My path has only recently connected with yours through twists and turns that has lead me to your work. Through this connection I am finding ways to shed some tender layers of my own. I am grateful to have found you and, wrapped in love, I offer any part of me that might contribute to your journey.
Much love
Dearest Sharon I notice how truly grateful I am for your willingness to be witnessed, to be vulnerable, and to be open during a time which might more ease-fully be navigated alone. We see you and we honor you. Your courage is an inspiration and as this all unfolds please count me among the many who hold you in their prayers and hearts. Blessings your way, today and always, and I hope you receive infinite warm hugs from those close to you.
Dear Sharon, I am late to discover your work, but I am a fan. I must have missed the prior announcement about your illness, so I was very sorry to learn of it in today’s email. Please know how many of us you have touched with your well crafted observations and teachings. I am grateful to you for awakening in me the desire to reconnect with life itself. I send you lots of light and love for complete healing.
Blessings, Cindy S
Hi Sharon,
Thank you for sharing so bravely. It lends courage to the world in the midst of ‘the unbearable lightness of being’ which I’m sure we all feel at times. That in itself is a healing thing, and wow, to be able to do that even in the midst of a health crisis seems amazing to me. I wish you peace and as much comfort as is possible as you move through this illness. You are held.
With admiration,
Anne
Sharon, I have long felt yours to be a kindred spirit. I am profoundly grateful for you sharing your life’s passion, as it seems in many ways so similar to my own. As you enter this liminal space, please know that you are surrounded by love. May you rest upon it for strength and may it carry you through. Blessings,
Lynn
Deep blessings upon you, Sharon. I have never ceased to be touched by your books & web posts. There is a river of love & support flowing to uphold you it will gather momentum as you move forward on this journey.
Lynn (Winchester, UK). xxx
Dear Sharon, I have so much appreciation for you and what you have shown us over the many years in an embodied, creative and magical way. Your words about this time in your life, and all the love and support that has come with it, is so real and true! But also, your honesty about your journey’s other side in the public eye, that of jealousy and the hate campaign from one person, touched me deeply. I’ve had a much less prominent place in our world, but do have some visibility on topics of trauma healing and early wound healing via the instinctual body. It was sad and very disturbing to experience something like you did: a hate campaign from a woman I had once supported in her growth, born of envy and hatred and malice. It was confusing and hurtful, without repair, though I tried like you did. The more I sat with it, read what other women speakers/leaders had gone through, the more I accepted it for what it was. The humbling truth that we are none of us perfect, none of us without an active projection screen from our past wounds onto present day events, and the eternal longing to be held in safety and in love.
My heartfelt blessings and prayers to you, Sharon, on this journey of chemo and healing. Know that you are held in the hearts and minds of so many (mine included!) with Love and Grace and Hope.
You are not alone. Please remember this. All of creation will rise to meet you. Big Love stands near.
It is beings like you who help to remind us all there are layers of life to strip away and find our core. Thank you for your ability to crack me open. Your service to others is the kindest act of all. Wishing you the very best on this new journey.
May you be blessed on this path, may you know yourself loved, admired, supported. May you find those who will give you what you need, may you be steadfast in openness to every new guest, transforming them with insight and wisdom, And may you come through this truly healed. Thank you for your witness, your sharing the great treasure of your knowledge and the gift of its interpretation. May you dwell in peace.
It is amazing how vulnerable we all are and how beautiful that vulnerability is when it is released out to the universe. It helps us all to heal along with you. I honor and respect your journey gorgeous. Holding you deep within my heart.
Kelley
Sharon, I am a year into my own cancer journey – an aggressive sarcoma which tends to recur and for which there is no cure. After 8 nasty 3-week chemo rounds and a major surgery, I am, for now, cancer free. The lessons are deep and profound. Living in and with uncertainty becomes front and center for us now. It has taken me into living a more prayerful life (and prayer was never a thing for me), not in the sense of praying for what I want, but rather for being in connection with what is greater than myself. I have read your books and seen you twice in person at Pt. Reyes, and would never have wanted this for you (or me), but here we are. Blessings on your journey. May you thrive!
I also had someone, a former colleague, conduct a hate campaign against me for imagined crimes. It is VERY hard not to feel so hurt and damaged by this that one shuts off to protect the vulnerable self and if you’ve found a way to overcome that, that’s a true gift!
Your work has touched my heart and changed my life. Thank you for your many gifts.
Blessings and Peace, dearest Sharon.
Dear Sharon,
Thank you for your honesty. That is what I respond to. It is not out of a sense of “niceness” but rather out of a sense of hearing truth talking and expressing my gratitude. For in being honest and vulnerable, you encourage these beautiful qualities in others. Take good care of yourself.
Christine
Sharon, I feel such a kinship with you. Physical illnesses are such teachers. You and your sweetie are in my thoughts and prayers. May you experience much love, growth and healing along your journey.
Sharon, you are so courageous opening up to everyone taking the time to read about your current journey. Your work has been so helpful to me these past few years and thankyou for drawing my attention to the Rumi poem anew and seeing the wisdom in these words.
Wishing you all the best during your treatment and recovery, Alison.
Bless you on your journey—or, as I would say to a pilgrim on the Camino de Santiago, “Buen Camino.” I am in awe of the wisdom you sum up, and I am grateful I can accompany you on this journey, learning as you share, sending you blessings.
Just found your blog. You are extraordinary. I wish you so very well and I’m humbled that with your present guest, you are still showing a better way to be, a higher way to live. Thank you.
Dear Sharon, I am so sad to know of your illness, I wish you joy, love and light and a great big hug from your leopard blanket.
I hope the kindness continues to flow to you. I wish you well on this part of your journey. I love reading your work.
Sharon, when I first read “If Women Rose Rooted”, I felt as if you were the person I always wanted to be. Second reading morphed that feeling into a sense of deep kinship and appreciation. Thank you for the gifts you have brought into the world, the depth of your thoughts and insights, and your perspective on enchantment – it has become a lighthouse in the darkness of Covid for me. Godspeed on your healing journey, and may the shores of well being remain in sight. Much love and heartfelt hope for the return of your good health is coming your way. Very best, Tracy Coffie, Atlanta, GA
Dearest Sharon – bless you for your wise words which freely flow from your kind loving heart to shine a light on what I need to see within – today, the Exile archetype ah-ha. A perfect synchronicity and the answer to a question asked.
You are held in a Web of Light and Healing formed by the many whom you’ve touched with your Truth. I can see it and it is beautiful. with my love to you xx
Dear Sharon ,I’m sending you blessings at this time and wish you a gentle road. I have found your words have been a blessing to me many times. I would like to send that comfort back to you 10 fold. bringing with it light and love
Blessings to you Sharon on your healing journey as you open to receive its guidance. I love your writing, your inspiration, and your raw honesty.
The Guest House poem sits framed in 2 rooms in my apartment for daily reminders.
So beautifully put. Thank you for your generosity of spirit. Your wonderful work speaks soul deep. All things good, healing, and bright to you on this journey.
Dear Sharon, your words were sent to me by a friend. I am so sorry for your illness, but I stand in awe of your courage. your words went right to my soul. My “houseguest” was the needless murder of my son and daughter-in-law. In 6 years I have gone from limping thru the days to finally walking with my head up, amazed at all I have learned since and the blessings I have received.
thank you. Be well.
This resonated with me. My houseguest is a debilitating spinal condition which has left me bedridden for 4 years. Sending you blessings, light, and love, on this healing journey. Take care.
Dear Sharon, just read your email and the beauty, magic and raw strength you carry melts me every time,
Sending you so much love on your journey, and a huge thank you for all that you share.
When I felt alone, scared and utterly lost you reached me with your writing, took me by the hand and led me along the most wild and beautiful path that felt like walking barefoot on moss.
I join in the many loving voices here and wish to circle you with love, love, love and hope to give back that unfailing magic you have sent to me and millions of others. You are beautiful to the bone. Much love Daniela xxx
I’m so sorry that you have to deal with this new “guest.” But I can tell that you are strong.
Your books have meant so much to me. I am sending you as much positive energy as I know how. Let golden stars fall around you.
In my tradition, we pray for someone’s healing by their first name, and the first name of their mother…(although I personally think that G-d knows who I am talking about.) May your healing be deep and rich, a true and precious gift.
Amen.
Dear Sharon, I first discovered your work many moons ago when I lived on the other side of the planet and felt such a ‘remembering’ within my bones. I have since taken a number of your courses, listened to your podcasts and read your work with a deep fascination; as well as moved back to the British Isles (my Celtic roots). I too have had a few years of unexpected ‘guests’ and as you say each one is ultimately to be welcomed. Although sometimes this can be easier in hindsight:) I have felt so touched and supported by your work, as well as deeply grateful for your wisdom and knowledge during these tumultuous periods. I would like to reciprocate in a small way by letting you know that you are in my thoughts and prayers and I am sending you many blessings for your path at this time as you heal. Thank you for the magic that you weave in our lives. Joanne xx
Stay strong. You and your words are beautiful
Thank you Sharon for reminding me of this beautiful poem which is a lesson for me too. Your courage and openness are an inspiration and while your heart is so open much love and healing may come your way. My best wishes for strength and healing and wisdom lessons .
Thank you Sharon for this poem and for your wisdom and insight. I hadn’t come across the poem before, and it was just what I needed to read today. It puts quite a different perspective on some of my own challenges and as I work with it, I am certain it will evoke deep healing for me, as your books and writings have been doing for some time now. I join with the other voices in wishing you strength and love on this difficult journey, and blessings for your recovery. I’m certain you will have much more insight to share as you progress to the other side of this. Namaste.
You are loved by many and your work is appreciated by all.
These loving supporters will help you on your journey
My heart goes out to you, Sharon…i have been down the road you are now beginning (cancer & chemotherapy), and it was indeed a Guest House of many and varied visitors. Some were easier to welcome than others!
Your mention of kindness in this post brought to mind another poem, called “Kindness” by Naomi Shihab Nye. the opening stanza is:
“Before you know what kindness really is
you must lose things,
feel the future dissolve in a moment
like salt in a weakened broth.
What you held in your hand,
what you counted and carefully saved,
all this must go so you know
how desolate the landscape can be
between the regions of kindness.”
The kindness i experience from family, friends, neighbors, even complete strangers was incredible, and so healing. i wish the same for you as you make this journey. i hold you in my heart with love and prayers.
Hugs across the ocean,
Teri
One more blessing in a sea of blessings. May it be one more bit of bread for the journey. So good to hear from you – we’re here holding sacred space for you, and sending healing energy.
Dear Sharon, I feel so blessed to have met you in Santa Fe and connected with you face to face, to have sat at your feet of wisdom. Know that love for you is coming from across the pond as you make this new journey. Your words struck a chord as friendships have passed away this past year. I appreciate your thoughts as they will guide me in letting go.
And Kindness – my favorite word in any language is hesed – lovingkindness being the simplest translation, but does not explain the breadth and depth of the Hebrew meaning. Strangely it’s a 27 year old musician, one of your countrymen, who has shown and demonstrated this over the years for me. In fact, his motto is Treat People with Kindness. A simple word, and a hard lesson.
Thank you for your vulnerability. Many blessings to you and David
Much love,
Fiery Lily (Lori)
I have tears in my eyes, reading this; and can only imagine that if someone has been consumed with jealousy, it is because you have managed to be so fully authentic, walking a path of deep meaning, poetry and purpose, and paving the way for others to do the same.
That’s beautiful and powerful and rare and precious. And hard to do.
I wonder if, when people go into ‘fight’ mode like this, it’s a protection/deflection from looking at their pain inside? I see that as a trauma response.
Wishing you courage and a full, speedy recovery. Thank you for the inspirational work that you do.
Dear Sharon
Your story resonates with my own in so many ways, including jealousy that comes when we least expect it – Catriona Mitchell above highlights this is not about us, however it feels devastatingly personal at times.
High stress through trauma throughout 60 years of life, leaves me with chronic fatigue – one Friday, completely exhausted and withdrawn, I stepped out in front of a car on a busy Oxford road. Sitting on the ground, stunned, surrounded by white mist, a voice said ‘Well you wouldn’t stop, so we made you, want are you going to do now?’ Unable to even stand up let alone move out of the way of traffic, I called out ‘Help me please, please help me!’ – I broke a habit of a lifetime of self-sufficiency that the young child in me had always known…
Showing our vulnerability allows others to express empathy, to show kindness, to be human and giving of ourselves, using our skills to support another just like the natural world does of its own species. Vulnerability allows the divine within others to emerge…
After putting out my call for help, so many medically trained people emerged – 2 off duty doctors, a senior paramedic, a nurse, a neuro consultant it was an amazing group of people who gave me care I couldn’t have conjured up in my wildest dreams!
I will never meet those people again, but I still feel their kindness in my bones today…
With much love for your journey
Diane
Hi Sharon,
As always, I am very tardy with catching up on emails and I usually leave yours ’til last, like saving your favourite bit of food on your plate to really savour and delight in. Thank you for being so open and sharing your journey with us all. Your words are candid and enriched with all your bounteous knowledge and wisdom as well as your own particular way of expressing yourself. Sending love and much kindness as well as a saucy bit of humour to make you laugh until it hurts. xxx ( just remember the hilarious meal in Connemara, for example!)
Wishing you all the best on this new leg of the journey.
Dear Sharon,
among all these beautiful messages of strenght and good wishes, I would like to add my own. As for many other women here, your books have been my much-loved companions for several years now and I keep re-reading them, always picking up new messages and lessons. They are so important to me and I just want to thank you for this. My life has changed so much since I first picked up your books . I truly hope that your current challenging lesson of Lady Life will also eventually bring you health again, and wisdom, and even more happiness and gratitude. I hope you will recover and wish you all the strenght and love you may need.
Dear Sharon – I hope to channel to you all the kindness and healing energy that can flow through my heart and through my whole being. For many years, I have so appreciated your offerings – the fruit of your life of dedicated scholarship, deep contemplation and authentic engagement with the modern and the ancient, the ordinary and the enchanted, the seen and unseen worlds, You continue to give nourishment and inspiration as you face this current challenge. Thank you for reminding me that unkindness in some places (including within me) doesn’t mean that the world (or my whole being) is unkind. I too grew up in exile, and have lived the advantages of the ‘outsider’ to the fullest. But also need to be reminded that letting go of exile may also open doors that I need to walk through. May you feel all the guardians with you as you go through treatments. With gratitude,
Thank you, dear Sharon. I was so touched by your courage and your being willing to share with us. I send you healing light and lots of love.
A big fan,
Jane Knox
Sharon – I’ve been slow to respond to your news but I’ve thought of you with great tenderness over the last couple of weeks and have wished you well, even in my silence. Your words have been a balm to me over the years and the way you now share them, at this difficult time for you, is a gift to us all. I hope that your rocky journey over the coming months will prove to be both deeply healing and wonderfully enriching. When things break open their is both pain and pleasure to be found…but you know that already!
With love, Cherry
Sharon, We are all the richer for your courage. Thank you so much for trusting us with your story, and being willing to share your journey.
With gratitude, Nancy
How extraordinary to feel able to share your story in this wise and giving way. Thank you. I wish you all the best for those days when courage doesn’t visit and I hope that reading some of these comments from both strangers and friends will give you something like a buoyancy of light – a gentleness to lean upon. So many of us have leant into and on to your words and thank you that they are out there, inspiring and continuing your healing work in lives way beyond the reach of your pen/keyboard. Wishing you all the best on this new path.
Thank you for sharing your vulnerability and wisdom Sharon, I wish you much love, Paulaxx
Thank you all so much for these heartfelt and thoughtful comments. The number of them has overwhelmed me a little, so it’s impossible for me to reply to them all individually as I’d like, but I do want you all to know how much they’ve meant to me.
Be the guest at your window.
Invite the birds to dinner, watch as they grace your table, savouring the tender delights you provide. The robin dressed in scottish plaids, the sparrow colours if highland sheep specked with old man’s beard. The magpie in formal attire and the jay, such a Gatsby. Oh how they laugh and I do smile, my guests and I, for tomorrow brings another day and in patience I wait for there return. A blessing from nature and her purest magic.
Lavender oil to wear and on a compress if cold water when fevers and headaches prevail. Tea of Thyme for strength and antibodies. Star flower oil when everything smells wrong. Blessings to you and magic always.