Hello Friends,
This is Yoga Anita and my dharma talk is inspired today by a pop song performed by the Artist Gayle, co-written by Gayle, Sara Davis and David Pittenger. It’s a catchy tune and some of the lyrics go like this:
A-B-C-D-E, forget you
And your mom and your sister and your job
And your broke down car and the things you call art
Forget you and your friends that I’ll never see again
Everybody but your dog, you can all get lost
Every time I hear that song first I think, whoa, I know exactly what she is talking about, been there, and second here is someone who knows herself and is brave enough to take action. In keeping with our theme of taking action, she is singing about someone who does exactly that-getting away from toxic relationships. This is not an easy thing to do. Most of us (and I am including myself) prefer to go with the flow, not cause any waves, and keep the peace. It takes a strong person to know her worth, stand up for herself, and shed the people and things holding her back. And as any psychiatrist will tell you, this is NOT comfortable. But this is a skill that can be taught.
When I was a classroom teacher, I made sure to include lessons during our morning meeting that explicitly taught children how to express themselves and give them a safe space in which to practice. I especially reinforced this with the girls in my room, as boys don’t seem to have as much of a problem in this area. Teaching children that they have a voice and a right to express it appropriately is a lifelong skill to be nurtured. I am especially proud that both of my adult children use their voices in creative and impactful ways in their careers.
So hats off to artists like Gayle, teachers, moms, and leaders who show us the courage to stand up and take action.
Everybody but your dog you can all get lost
This is Yoga Anita. Peace and love to you.
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