The Bliss Mistress Guide: One Hand Washes the Other

I have such mixed feelings about what some people consider 'promotion'. I am a self-proclaimed PR Goddess, Buzz Queen, Connector, Cosmic Concierge, Matchmaker who loves spreading the word about the good work people do. I do it because I can and because I believe in them and the value of what they offer in the world. I have no hesitation to post on social media sites for them. I welcome people whose vision is in alignment with mine, to post on my page. Here comes the 'and yet'.... I ride a thin line between 'not enough' and 'too much' when I consider spreading the word about my own work. I am claiming my worth and the value of what I offer. I am a prolific writer whose words seem to touch people. I am an inspiring speaker who gets people thinking and feeling in new ways. I am a kick ass therapist and coach who helps people make all kinds of shifts.

I was on a trajectory throughout my life to become a ‘helping’ professional and these days, it takes the form of being a licensed social worker, interfaith minister, transformational writer and inspirational speaker. I am also known as the ‘go to’ person for promotion of folks’ service work in the world. On a daily basis, friends approach me with the request…”can you spread the word about my writing, music, art, cause…?” I always say yes, simply because I can. I’m not a saint, believe me, but I also know that if I have the wherewithal to do something, and if in any way possible, I can use my gift as a connector to stir up more love in the world, then it feels incumbent on me to do so. I have many friends who feel the same way and am gratified to see them do it and delighted to see the results of their kindness. On the flip side, I have also sadly observed that out of fear of competition, there have been others who haven’t been as free with their energies. My experience has been that when one succeeds, all succeed; when one reaches a hand out, it elevates all of us.

I have worked hard to get to the place in my life when I can, with confidence say I have earned my chops and want to touch even more people with the gifts I have been given. Then the monkey mind kicks in and screeches "What will people think? They will get tired of hearing you 'toot your own horn'. You will inundate them." On the flip side, I see well known writers, speakers, healers and teachers doing that and people flock to hear, read and see them. There was a time when these 'movers and shakers' were not household names. It takes a certain degree of chutzpah (Yiddish for 'guts') to be center stage and then balancing humility, so we aren't too over the top. And then the pouty voice chimes in that asks what it will take for more people who CAN help spread the word about what I do, to do so. I am SO grateful for those who have, since we all enrich each other’s lives and I love collaboration. My wise father used to say that one hand washes the other. Some people’s hands are simply cleaner than others.

Through the years, I have been the recipient of the sweetness of ‘fairy godmothers’ and ‘fairy godfathers’ who have opened doors for me and I have willingly done the same for others. I invite you to take any opportunity to don your invisible wings and flap them in support of those who cross your path.

Rev. Edie Weinstein, MSW, LSW is a colorfully creative journalist and interviewer, dynamic transformational speaker, licensed social worker, BLISS coach, interfaith minister, radio host, reiki master and the author of The Bliss Mistress Guide To Transforming The Ordinary Into The Extraordinary. www.liveinjoy.org is her website to learn about all things blissful.