On the Minister's Mind
by Rev. Laine Morgan
We all have friends we love spending time with. Recently, while talking with one of mine, I found myself saying, “I love who I am when I’m with you.” It wasn't simply that I enjoy her company. It was that being with her brings forth a version of me that feels authentic, joyful, wise, and alive. There is a difference between liking someone and liking who you become in their presence.
Over the past few years, I have become more intentional about noticing these soul connections. Sometimes they arise with someone I've just met and instantly feel a sense of kinship with. Other times, I discover a deeper spiritual bond with a longtime friend that I had never consciously recognized before. Some of these people are woven into my daily life, while others live far away and only cross my path through great effort and intention. Yet these connections remain strong because I believe I have discovered part of my “soul tribe.” Recognizing these bonds has strengthened my overall life.
There is a teaching that says other people are mirrors through which we come to know ourselves. If that is true, then we encounter countless mirrors every day. Some reflect distorted images that leave us doubting our worth or questioning who we are. Others magnify our insecurities or reinforce old stories that no longer serve us.
But every now and then, we find a mirror that reflects something beautiful and true. In those relationships, we see our highest qualities shining back at us. We feel more ourselves, not less. More authentic, not more performative. More whole, not more needy. When you feel these qualities, pay attention!
The quality of our relationships often reflects the quality of our relationship with ourselves. When we value ourselves, we are naturally drawn toward people who affirm our growth, encourage our authenticity, and celebrate our light.
As you meet new people, pay attention not only to who they are, but to who you are when you're with them. Notice how you feel in their presence. Notice what parts of yourself come alive.
You may discover that what you're really searching for is not a particular person, but a reflection of your own highest self. And, if you are restless in your current social circle, it may be that you are not experiencing a reflective match to how you see yourself in this chapter of your life, and intentionally begin to look for your own soul connections.
Find those people who help you recognize your own beauty. Draw them close. Then take a long, loving look in the mirror.
You are fabulous!