I have been reminded of this recently:
Some folks are used to conversations that reinforce beliefs and velcro, including stressful beliefs.
Others tend to meet what’s here with love and gentle inquiry.
I notice both from myself, and see I sometimes slip into one or the other depending on who I am with. (Even if I slip into the former, I am aware of what’s happening and that it’s not comfortable, and I usually go into the second on my own afterwards.)
That’s why I am even more grateful for having friends in the second category.
It’s such a relief to have conversations about what’s going on with both of us, and taking time to meet unloved parts with love, and unquestioned stories with gentle curiosity and inquiry.
Thank you to KL, AH, CL, MET, SF and others.