What does this revolution look like? People are experiencing genuine happiness in their lives more consistently. For these individuals, work environments seem less stressful while their marriages grow more connected and loving. Their parenting has become easier and lighter; their avodas Hashem (religious worship) more fulfilling and joyful. Without any change in the many challenges these individuals face, they are finding an ability to thrive. Instead of settling for "just getting by" or "coping", these modern day pioneers are discovering joy, patience, energy, resilience and more connected, richer lives.
Let me share with you how this happened for me. About three years ago, I was facing a personal challenge and my Rav, Rabbi Michel Twerski shlit"a, of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, suggested that I seek professional help. With a background in mental health and a steadfast trust in my Rav, I concluded that it would be best to heed his advice.
Rivka Kromholz, a Principles-based therapist in Cedarhurst, New York, politely listened as I expounded on all the struggles in my life, all the wrongs I had been through and all the internal shortcomings that I needed to overcome. Like a heavy mist, it filled up the room. I could see nothing but the enormity of all of my problems in life. As expected - it was painful and uncomfortable. But this is how therapy goes, I reasoned.
Mrs. Kromholz, a teacher of Innate Health and the Principles for almost a decade, then skillfully guided me towards something I had never before considered. We spent little or no time on why I felt the way I did or what to even do about it. Rather we delved into a more philosophical question: How do I feel the way I feel?
Another form of the question might be: How do I experience anything? How do humans experience any feeling? How do emotions, which are spiritual in nature, get into me, a physical and very concrete being? What is the system that allows for all of us to feel, emote and experience at all?
As the answer to this question became clearer to me; as the awareness of the true source of my personal experience increased, a funny thing happened. No, I didn't miraculously find nirvana and a perfect life, but I did find myself happier more often. I found myself being more patient, I found that I had more energy and I absolutely discovered a resilience that had been lacking. The part that I found most curious was that this shift occurred without any noticeable changes in my social life, financial status, physical ability or other personal circumstances. Everything stayed the same - yet I felt different.
You, reading this short article, may have concluded long ago that certain things are no longer possible for you. You may have come to many conclusions about yourself and others. You may have allowed a dear dream to die or simply accepted that a certain distress in your life is here to stay. I ask you to reconsider what is or is not possible for you as an individual.
This movement might be of interest to anyone and everyone who has a personal reality. For anyone who is a part of a family, a community - a holy nation that vitally needs an emotionally vibrant you. According to my calculations, that includes all of us! Although it certainly is not transformative for everyone, I suggest that you take a moment and investigate the 3 Principles of Innate Health and see for yourself whether this revolution is right for you.