“Listening to one’s self as well as to others is a sacred act of healing. There is a higher octave of listening that hears the wisdom within the words.” ― Cheryl Hamada
I have had the privilege of working at Starting Point since September 2005. I’ve selected two quotes to begin and end my writing here as I believe strongly in the power of the written word and our ability to internalize the wisdom offered by others who have traveled the path toward healing. I contribute quotes and inspirational saying every week to the Quote Box, along with books to our sharing library shelves in The Starting Point’s waiting room which are extensions of my belief in the power of healing.
With a Master’s Degree in Education, I’ve taught school in Pennsylvania, Texas and New Jersey. My positions as teacher, school counselor, developer/facilitator of a Gifted and Talented program, school disciplinarian and Vice Principal, provided me the opportunity to work closely with families over a 37 year period. Prior to teaching I worked at Byberry State Hospital which allowed me to interact with patients on a one-to-one basis. Reading to the patients was one form of therapy I initiated. It showed me, once again, the power of the written word and its ability to initiate personal introspection and reflection, which can become cornerstones to inner healing.
During my twelve years at Starting Point I have given workshops on The Gift of Change, journaling and creative writing themes, labyrinth walks, dream work, and self-empowerment. I co-facilitate a weekly series with Cort Hrivnak on twenty-four areas of strength and development based on the Positive Psychology model from the University of Pennsylvania. This free weekly program (on Thursdays at 7pm) reflects my strong belief in the power of our internal wisdom.
In my practice I encourage clients to build on their inner wisdom while journeying through the transformational phases of their lives. It is in learning to find that quiet place within, a place where we can recharge and replenish our souls, that will lead us to have the courage to listen for and to that still small voice emerging from deep within, for this is our true guidance. This is our true essence, our wisdom.
“When wisdom arises, our inherent power as a being naturally arises as well, and then we begin to view things differently. We begin to see things based on the truth that we have found inside, not the truth that is imposed by others on us.” ― M. Laurie Cantil, A Magician’s Visit
Anna Marie Hrivnak
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