Perhaps more than two years ago, I participated in a group reading of Non-violent Communication by Marshall Rosenberg. Since then I have been part of groups that used this text for deeper study. Husband has even used it with his students in helping them communicate better in their jobs.
I found a handout that I thought was produced by hubby....but it was not labeled. It was from a friend who connected Mr. Rosenberg's work to Fr. Thomas Dubays work on sanctity and Theresa of Avila's writings.
Today in working through my personal plans for the year I found some old notes from her that pertain.
"Our deepest hungers/needs are joy, celebration, love, truth, beauty and to never be betrayed.
When our needs are satisfied, we experience a connection with God. The state of sanctity can inspire us to act or think in ways that connect other and ourselves to God.
When needs are not satisfied, we experience a separation from God or sin. The state of sin can drive us to act or think in ways that cause harm to others and ourselves. "
As with most things I read, it takes me many months to begin to live what I find to make sense. To be able to say clearly when your needs are not being met, and how to say that they are being met is quite a challenge! I have placed several lists of feelings needs are being met and not being met around the house for me to use. I hope this coming year I am able to integrate even more of this concept.