Thank you for your thoughtful reflection. I agree that my reactions to encounters with persons, places, and things are totally personal and internal (mental and physical). It is with the title of your essay/podcast that I need clarity. "Oh Friend, there are no reactions outside yourself."
Empathy is an emotional reaction that is only activated in the presence of the other.
When I cry with another grieving individual, those tears demonstrate the appropriate response to loss. This too is "mirroring" and has been identified in the activation of the hippocampi of both individuals experiencing a shared empathetic moment.
Laughter is contagious!
Your example of the tree: If the external touch is perceived as hostile to the tree and most plant life, protective defense mechanisms are ignited. The threat is also communicated to nearby trees and plants of the same species, for them to protect themselves a well.
Ultimately, I believe I am responsible for my reactions in relationships. But I am reacting to an external trigger. I hope I can develop the discernment to claim what is mine, process it and form generative re-action and action. This will keep me healthy and the world around me healthy...Always by the power of the Holy Spirit within, a precious relationship.
It goes without saying there is more to discuss on this topic, reflecting both our views. And you know I would love to engage is such a discussion.
I loved your exercise! Keep writing; I love your enthusiasm and explorative mind.
Thank you for your thoughtful reflection. I agree that my reactions to encounters with persons, places, and things are totally personal and internal (mental and physical). It is with the title of your essay/podcast that I need clarity. "Oh Friend, there are no reactions outside yourself."
Empathy is an emotional reaction that is only activated in the presence of the other.
When I cry with another grieving individual, those tears demonstrate the appropriate response to loss. This too is "mirroring" and has been identified in the activation of the hippocampi of both individuals experiencing a shared empathetic moment.
Laughter is contagious!
Your example of the tree: If the external touch is perceived as hostile to the tree and most plant life, protective defense mechanisms are ignited. The threat is also communicated to nearby trees and plants of the same species, for them to protect themselves a well.
Ultimately, I believe I am responsible for my reactions in relationships. But I am reacting to an external trigger. I hope I can develop the discernment to claim what is mine, process it and form generative re-action and action. This will keep me healthy and the world around me healthy...Always by the power of the Holy Spirit within, a precious relationship.
It goes without saying there is more to discuss on this topic, reflecting both our views. And you know I would love to engage is such a discussion.
I loved your exercise! Keep writing; I love your enthusiasm and explorative mind.
Julia