We all have aspects of ourselves hidden in the shadow of our personalities. Psychologist Carl Jung called these aspects archetypes — universal symbols that may pop out and project themselves onto our relationships or life circumstances, surprising us at times when we don’t expect them.  Jung taught people to welcome the shadow.

Even though it embarrasses me to tell you how I had occasion to face my own shadow, I’m telling you anyway.

I sat down a couple weeks ago to journal about my “inner child,” whom I refer to as my LG (little girl). Later in the day, I sat down at my computer to write a welcome to people visiting my new website. Instead of the warm, welcoming words I wanted to write, what spewed forth shocked me!

Here’s what came out onto the page:

“I created this website so you can see how wonderful I am. I want you to notice me, to think well of me, to like me, and to be fascinated by my writing and my wisdom. All this stuff I make up about writing for you – for your growth and transformation – is horse pucky! I really want to dazzle you with my insight!”

I sat back in my chair in disbelief. What or who had just erupted all over my Word document? As soon as I asked the question, I knew I had just heard from my LG. Her needs for attention and acknowledgment had not been met as a child, and I had buried that needy part of me in the shadow of my personality. 

Next I burst out laughing.  My LG had came out of the shadows and had found her voice, letting me know in a powerful way what she thought and felt!  As I acknowledged and thanked her, I also let her know we would look together at her feelings.  But right now, she needed to let me write! 

If we don’t acknowledge these hidden aspects of ourselves, they take over through “inappropriate” ways that appear naughty, selfish and disobedient. Becoming aware of my LG helps me integrate her into my self-image by accepting her naughtiness, selfishness and disobedience as part of myself.  She then stops trying to get my attention in unacceptable ways.

She becomes my ally.

As an ally, she helps me speak my truth. She enables me to recognize when I’m being nice to please others and gain approval, or when I’m not serving myself by conforming to others’ expectations. She lets me know when I need to set a boundary even if it appears selfish.  She’s a smart little girl!

Since her outburst, my LG hasn’t tried to sabotage my work. Once we become aware of the archetypes influencing us, they no longer need to throw tantrums to get our attention.

If they pop out unexpectedly, we can know, as we bring these parts of our hidden personality habits, patterns, and traits into the Light, we live with a fuller awareness of our Wholeness.