A practice of radical emotional transparency with oneself about grief, rooted in bhakti's insistence on authentic feeling over performative identity.
Mirabai's poetry refuses the polish of courtly propriety, instead expressing raw longing, anger, and confusion. The examined heart's honesty is the practice of unfiltered self-inquiry into grief without the mediation of who we think we should be. When grieving lost identity, we often perform resilience or self-improvement to others and ourselves. Bhakti teaches that the Divine sees through pretense; only naked truth connects us to what matters. This concept invites you to acknowledge not just sadness about who you were, but also relief, shame, rage, or liberation. Mirabai wept publicly for Krishna; she did not hide her overwhelming emotion. By examining your heart with ruthless honesty—journaling, speaking aloud, sitting with discomfort—you honor both the self you lost and the person you're becoming. What feelings about your former identity have you never admitted?
Peri can explain this concept, give practical examples, help you decide whether it applies to your situation, or recommend a journey if appropriate.
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