In case you are not familiar with the golden rule, it states, “Do unto others as you would have them do to you”, or another version is “Treat others as you would like to be treated.” This rule is imperative in life; it is one that I have taught my boys since they were able to understand what I was saying (I still preach it today, because, well…kids).
I feel that my community, the one that I have dedicated much of the last decade to, can sometimes miss the mark. Those that are super passionate like myself, can at times forget about the way they come across to people online and in social media. I feel confident when I say that if we were in a public setting, things would often not happen the way we “read” them on Facebook. If there is a true “issue”, take it to a private discussion.
I implore everyone to take step back and think how they can better themselves, specific situations, and interactions with one another.
Our industry as a whole, is about helping others, the compassionate healers, and our fellow colleagues should not be an exception to the rule. We SHOULD be thinking about how we can lift each other up, as we all have the same goals, right?
I am all for constructive conversations in Facebook Aromatherapy groups. I often participate in them. I am always conscious in how I may be coming across to others as they are not sitting with me at tea time to see my face, hear my passion, and know my truth. It is important to have this discernment. I do not go out of my way to “prove someone else is wrong”, but rather offer my point of view. Aromatherapy is not always black and white, we do not need to fight our points tooth and nail until threads close down or commenting is turned off and feelings are hurt.
There are plenty of great Facebook groups out there that essential oil enthusiasts can come to get information from. As a qualified aromatherapist, it is important that we understand what we can and can not say, begin to take a look at what we “give away”, and how specific choices may not always be lifting the profession up along the way. At times these things are overlooked, and it tends to ruffles feathers. We do have an option, we can look the other way, or we can leave the group. I understand and share in the frustration at times, but as adults, we have the right to make those choices, and not break the golden rule along the way. Be kind whenever possible, it is always possible.
Another thing to keep in mind is how quickly the industry is blooming, and how many come to us, not only for accurate information, but compassion and care. I know we can do better!
“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much” -Helen Keller
Let’s all work to do better, and be better going forward. It is not our way or the highway.
