A Year of Exploration
At the end of a year of psychodrama training, we tried something simple but unforgettable.
The group had spent months together—counsellors, therapists, educators, people in ministry, and others seeking personal growth. Every week, they used psychodrama and the Play of Life to explore their own stories. By the last day, they had already touched many deep places.
The Final Invitation
This time, the invitation was different: find the message you are still waiting to hear in your life.
One by one, each person walked to the stage and named the words they longed for, and from whom they needed to hear them. Most named their parents or partners. A few spoke of their children, or others who had shaped their lives.
A Sacred Exchange
Someone from the group stepped into that role and spoke the words. Sometimes they needed to be repeated until they sank in, until they were truly believed. The room held its breath as we witnessed the moment.
The words were not complicated. Over and over, what people most needed to hear was:
“I love you.”
“You’re OK.”
“Thank you.”
“I’m sorry.” “Forgive me.”
“How are you?” (and waiting for the answer).
When those words finally landed, there was relief, healing, and the sense of being seen. What amazed me most was how such simple phrases could untie such heavy knots.
Hidden Longings We Carry
Sometimes we’re not even aware we have these longings, because they feel like the only reality we know. Yet the gaps make themselves known in our lives—through difficulty trusting the affection of others, the constant need to prove ourselves, or the weight of guilt, shame, and resentment. These are often signs of the unheard messages our hearts still yearn for. Noticing and naming them is the first step to recognising what we truly need.
The Power of Naming Feelings
That’s the heart of my new book, Feelings Allowed. It’s about making emotions part of our everyday lives—learning to notice them, name them, and share them in ways that bring healing and connection.
If you’d like to know more, explore how it can support you, or purchase a copy, visit www.FeelingsAllowed.com.
Reflection Questions
- What is the message you are still waiting to hear, and from whom?
- If you could hear those words today, what difference might they make in your life?
Not Meant to Do Alone
Sometimes we cannot do it on our own. Sometimes we need a safe space and a trusted guide to help us uncover the words our hearts are still waiting for. To explore this further, visit www.FeelingsAllowed.com.
