As the year draws to a close, I find myself immersed in a reflective state, contemplating the insightful words of a collogue and fellow Naropa trained therapist, Chris Engler. His blog, New Year, Same You: The Compassionate Resolution, has inspired me to embrace a slower pace of thought and bring presence and loving-kindness to my goals for next year. Chris suggests, I reach into my sense of presence and loving-kindness. What I discover there: intention. A broad and ambitious intention that has become clearer over time.

My mantra, resonates in my thoughts: “My Mission is to help and heal others. As I help and heal others, I am helped and healed. As I am helped and healed, my capacity to help and heal increases. May we all be helped and all be healed.”

As I continue reflect, I notice an excitement coursing through my body is palpable, a jumping, thrusting energy eager to explore further than ever before.

I sense an elation in my mind, similar to the expansive view from an airplane window. I note vastness. The legacy of healing isn’t confined to individual interactions. Healing ripples outward, blending the broader tapestry.

This year has been about recognizing and embracing my basic aliveness – a vital force that underpins every action, every decision. I have lost sight of it many times, over the years but this year, I have found a new perspective. The only way Contemplative Caregiver LLC can grow is to become more in tune with myself, understanding my intrinsic worth and capabilities and then just sharing them with others. I’ve learned that to be effective in aiding others, I first need to see and hear myself. This self-recognition is born from a place of compassionate acknowledgment.

Andrew, His Grandmother Nancy, and Sister Hannah

My encounters this year have been both challenging and uplifting. All of these experiences have underscored the importance of being present, both for myself and for those I aim to help. Each moment of connection has been a lesson in empathy and understanding. I’ve seen firsthand how healing it is to feel truly seen and heard, and I strive to provide that sanctuary for others.

The year 2023 has been a testament to the power of compassionate resolution. It’s taught me that resolutions needn’t be rigid goals set in stone but can be fluid intentions that evolve and adapt. This flexibility has allowed me to respond to the needs of the moment, both mine and those of others, with greater sensitivity and effectiveness. I experienced some complex grief this year both, first professionally, and then personally. These moments have greatly emphasized my need for gentleness and unrestrained creativity. Find the tools to help you succeed, use them, and you will succeed.

As I stand on the brink of a new year, I carry with me the lessons of 2023. The journey of helping and healing is ongoing, an ever-evolving process that enriches both the giver and the receiver. My mantra continues to guide me, a reminder of the cyclical nature of support and care. May we all move into the future with a spirit of compassionate resolution, ready to embrace whatever comes with open hearts and willing hands.

So let’s end the year in celebration and cheer. I am glad to also introduce Chris Engler below. I had the treasure of sharing many classes with Chris at Naropa University as we both studied Mindfulness Based Transpersonal Counseling.

Meet Chris Engler, LPCC

Chris Engler, He/Him/His, combines his natural empathy and sensitivity as a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) with professionally honed skills at Naropa University, where he earned his Bachelors and Masters Degrees His practice, Chris Engler Counseling LLC, in Boulder, Colorado, is grounded in holistic, mindfulness-based approaches, including Gestalt and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Chris is dedicated to guiding individuals and couples through personal development and spiritual transformation, helping them integrate their inner complexities.

Chris Engler specializes in both EMDR and motivational interviewing, ensuring a path towards emotional security and wholeness. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), is a technique to heal from traumatic memories and distress with guided eye movements. Motivational interviewing techniques involve non-judgmental and empathetic discussions that focus on the the client strengthening their own reasons for making changes.

Chris vividly embraces diversity and his therapy space is a true safe space of inclusivity and understanding. He offers a unique blend of compassion, connection, and clarity. Outside his practice, Chris can be found adoring the beauty of nature, freedom of dance, and life’s simple joys like waffles. You can learn more about Chris Engler’s work at ChrisEnglerCounseling.com