Twisted Rib writes about recognizing and incorporating the "bad child" parts of ourselves. This is something I consciously, intentionally began to do after my mother's death, when I found myself beleaguered with sticky, icky bitterness, as sticky as tar in cigarette smoke.
When I finally tried to approach that bitter self with love, she appeared as a frightened girl-me.
This week, my inner child is Baby Hellboy.
If you know Hellboy, you know he is the spawn of Satan, but that, in fact, he is also the embodiment of free will.
In other words, through his choice *not* to serve Satan, he models the belief that biology alone is not destiny. Like Hellboy, we get to choose. But the choice takes some awareness. In other words, it's work. (No free lunch.)
(This--biology is not destiny-- was one of the tenets of 1970's feminism that oddly mirrors Catholic theology. There are others, but that's for another day. I guess "no free lunch" would count too.)
Anyway, ever since I've gotten back from Las Vegas Star Trek con, I've been housesitting or hosting other people at my place. Some part of me feels burdened and uncared for and is threatening to throw a hissy fit.
But after talking (writing) with Twisted Rib, it came clear to me:
Baby Hellboy need a present!
This is a tenet of MY spiritual life. People in pain and confusion need small gifties. (Words of praise and encouragement count.) Also, people who are feeling really well and confident can use them too. And in-between states? They also respond well to praise and gifts!
Maybe I would adapt the Dalai Lama's statement that his religion is kindness to:
"my religion is give small gifts."
Or maybe that's the same thing.
So, I asked my inner Hellboy, and he wants a red wagon.Here is is, darling.
Just for you!
I love you.
Now, go play in the mud and leave me in peace for a bit.
