A state of complete attentiveness to the present moment with your teen—setting aside worry, agenda, and distraction—inspired by Rabia's ecstatic absorption in love.
Rabia spoke of being "intoxicated" with divine love—so present, so absorbed that worldly concerns dissolved. Parents can cultivate this state during interactions with their adolescent. Intoxication with presence means putting away your phone during difficult conversations, releasing your need to "fix" their mood, and genuinely meeting them in the moment. Adolescents, hyperaware of adult distraction and inauthenticity, immediately register when a parent is truly present versus merely complying. This quality of attention becomes rare and therefore precious. Rabia's intoxication wasn't escapism; it was radical engagement. When you bring this quality to bedtime talks, car rides, or difficult disclosures, your teen experiences themselves as worthy of complete attention. This counters the adolescent fear of invisibility and irrelevance. Such moments, accumulated over time, rewire the attachment relationship and create safety for deeper honesty and vulnerability within the family.
Peri can explain this concept, give practical examples, help you decide whether it applies to your situation, or recommend a journey if appropriate.
Explore related journeys or tell Peri what you're working through.