21. Remember, growth isn’t always a family affair

Once you start to look within and experience new insights about the world and your place in it, it’ll be only natural that you’ll want to share them with your family.

Consider yourself fortunate if the other members of your household are ready at the same time you are to explore the inner realms. It’s much more likely that you’ll be ready, but your spouse and your children won’t be. Be prepared for this possibility, and don’t make an issue of it. They’ll come along when the time is right. Or they may not.

If you find yourself in this position, spend some time sincerely listening to your inner voice (#92). Figure out how you can move forward on your quest without alienating your family. Your task will be to arrange your life so you can continue your inner explorations without making anyone else feel uncomfortable or threatened.

How you proceed will depend to some extent on the level of communication that has already been established. Go slowly, and don’t be attached to having them join you. It may be that the most you can hope for is their understanding and acceptance.

If you can’t get even that for the moment, learn to keep your own counsel (#72), and don’t make anyone else wrong in the process. Learning to deal with the reactions of the people close to you could be a major part of your growth. Your biggest challenge may be to accept the situation as it is, and continue on your way.