27/10/2019
This is great, worthy of reflection.
I triggered someone the other day and when I stood back to reflect on the situation, could clearly see that the other person’s response had nothing to do with me. I sensed it was related to some childhood wounding. It really helped me to see this and not take this on board.
I see this happen all the time in the comment section. People writing “sorry if I triggered you” or “triggered!” I watch these conversations carefully. It’s how I learn. Almost always both parties deny they’ve been triggered. As if being emotionally activated is wrong. As if it’s something to mock.
If I was a betting type, I would bet a parent, or someone close to them, dismissed or belittled their emotional responses as children.
Becoming emotionally triggered is positive. If you read something, hear something, or engage with someone who causes you to be triggered, pause. Ask why. Reflect on what objectively was said, and what you subjectively took from it. Use your attention. That’s the space where growth takes place.
If you do unconsciously react from an emotional space, don’t judge yourself. Observe what was said objectively, then observe what you subjectively took from it. This isn’t random. It’s a consistent pattern your life. This practice is how you gain wisdom.
Your ego will tantrum. It’s there to protect you from your past. It’s desperate to have you believe this is about the present moment. With consciousness we can witness the ego, and relax it. Our ego will keep us safe, but it does not allow us to evolve. The work is to release the ego as truth.
Emotional maturity is something most of us have to build. We weren’t gifted with parents who had this maturity, and need to cultivate it within ourselves.
Do you learn from triggers?
