First Skin

EE cummings perhaps said it best when he wrote that one of the most difficult struggles we endevour to undertake as Human Beings is to simply be ourselves in a world which strives everyday to make us everything but who we are (paraphrased).

With this in mind - the metephore of our First Skin - begins to bear meaning , as those parts of ourselves that are truly unique and signatures if you like of the very essence of who we are. All too often I have been less brave to show my first skin, for fear of being judged less than, and losing a love I hold precious and dear.

Once we have undone all the myth of what we have been taught or read, perhaps there is this parallel jouney of the self discovery of what our First Skin actually looks like, and how it feels to live in it, move in it and speak from it. I have come to learn as I have gotten older that there simply is no other way for me. When I meet another who feels similarly, I recognise a particular bravery and resillience in them, and perhaps in myself, that is willing and indeed longing to find and express that First Skin.

So...under the guise of who I think you would like me to be, I might make the mistake of betraying myself to please you. Under the guise of the layers of masks I might wear, for fear of you seeing the real me, and losing you, I might betray myself too.

Perhaps our First Skin is our original contract if you like , to honor ourselves and the journey we are here to serve. Whew! It is a moment to moment practice and I have freinds who know well how to carry themselves gently in the learning of such a practice!! And in that I am still very much a student!

Within the beauty and complexity of relationship - how do we stay true to ourselves , and true to our partners , and run towards love without cutting our own heads off? ( Kabir), or being boxed into oblivion!

Indeed! How much of my own mind has this complexity occupied as I grow and discover? Me thinks... a very lot!
enjoy the video - it was a privileged journey and joy to make!

So - to all of our First Skins then - to living comfortably in them , and to their discovery and ever expanding expression!

love
Paul

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Esme

Fluid, Soul full, playfull, warm felt resonanze.