Beloveds,
I have a piece up right now on xojane (what an honor!) and it was so scary to send out into the world that I am quaking in my boots a bit. Nonetheless, I did. I sent it out into the world because I think it is a very important dialogue. And also, I have a commitment as a writer to be as brave as can be and to be a risk-taker. So. Please read, comment and share. I am not suggesting anyone go off their meds. I simply want to bring light to what is often kept hidden. Love you guys. Here’s the link https://www.xojane.com/issues/i-have-a-near-cult-like-following-and-lead-retreats-around-the-world-and-im-struggling-more-than-ever.
If you want to tweet, copy and paste this: @jenpastiloff talks about depression honestly on @xojane https://tinyurl.com/q6or54x
I adore you and offer a deep bow to your bravery. You continue to make a difference. Xx.
I love this sharing.
Your honesty is part of the reason I love your writing. I’m so sorry you’re struggling at the moment (ugh, that sounds SO hollow but I mean it from the bottom of my heart), I’ve been there and I know that whole dance of medicated/unmedicated especially. I still struggle with that, to be honest. I can’t imagine how difficult it was for you to open up like this, especially given what you do on a daily basis…but you have always shown that life is a rich tapestry of experiences and emotions and this is no different. I’m thinking of you in your struggle and sending you so much love.
Reblogged this on My Silver Screen Dream and commented:
Jen is incredible. I have always loved her writing, her honesty and her fire. This is so brave.
I really admire your bravery and honesty. Thank you for sharing your journey and your struggles.
Good post Jen! Read it and made it all the way through! 🙂
Zen Hard! And leave the meds behind…hell! Kudos to your efforts!
I think at this time in modernity, we are no longer looking for infallible “gurus” that smile peacefully with all knowing perfectness. These people are no longer relate-able and their states of peace seem so unattainable. If you look at the modern buddhist movement for example, the teachers that have had the most far reaching “success” have been the ones that teach practical buddhism and how to incorporate it into our daily “real” lives. We want to see real people, dealing with the same real problems we are, and see how they struggle and overcome and find light and joy and fall down again. I am sure you are your own worst critic and expect perfection from yourself as a teacher, but your students are much more forgiving and just want you to be real. This helps them feel real, and not alone or weird for being not perfect.