The journey begins, being brave.

The Journey begins, being brave.

I began a course in pastoral supervision, and began to wonder what this was all about? Some students had used pastoral supervision in their churches. I had received pastoral supervision. However, getting to the tone of the course, at the beginning, was something which I found a challenge.  I had only experienced giving and receiving spiritual direction. This seemed a whole new world. Not a Huxley Brave New World, but one I was quite intimidated embarking on.

A tremor hums beneath my skin,

A storm I can't control or pin.

Each breath, a wave that pulls, then breaks,

A trembling heart that never wakes.

I find trust quite hard, as my trust has been broken. I have a very small handful of friends that I trust, and they all happen to be called Michael!

However, over this year I have noticed a change in myself. Relationships between myself as a pastoral supervisor and my supervisees has grown in trust. We have made progress in exploring new ground, sometimes area where we have felt quite vulnerable.  Breaking free their inner world of work stress and hassle.

As a healthcare chaplain, I continue to witness the transformational power of listening. In my role, I facilitate deep conversations, allowing individuals to explore their thoughts and feelings. The result? Vulnerability and discomfort. But, when you truly listen —to others and to your inner self—you unlock a treasure trove of inspiration.

The world spins fast, my feet are still,

Caught between the might and will,

A shadow pulls, a weight that clings,

Yet I keep moving, spreading wings. [G Bell 2024]

While mindful of the presence of vulnerability…it is essential to maintain a thoughtful approach. Being aware of my inner voice – and the stories around me- can help me understand emotions better.

Recognizing that I hold the power over this fear is essential. When I listen, I create authentic connections with my audience. A poem that grapples with anxiety can be a lifeline for supervisees who can relate well.

Introduce a poem

At the beginning of a session. I place a chosen poem on the table in front of my supervisee and sometimes return to it in the middle and end of the session. As we work with one another, we also encourage one another. In working together, fears and vulnerabilities emerge. I recognise the sound of my unique voice and also theirs; reminding us that beauty is found in openness

Go on - open the book of human experience, and prepare yourself to be vulnerable.