I have recently discovered that I have exhausted some of my parts and they have, in no uncertain terms, let me know this. The past few years for me have been an intensive learning period. At times it has been great, there is no doubt about that. However, it’s now clear to me that I have not been paying attention to all my parts. Not long ago I was offered a place on another training course and before I could even get excited, look at my budget or think clearly about it, I found myself saying...

There is nothing like looking into the eyes of your child and knowing they are here with you, for as long as you remain here, or for as long as you are blessed enough to have them. Despite the challenges of deciphering what they need, middle-of-the-night wakeups, and the occasional screaming (a particular type of torture all its own), there is something indescribable about gazing into those eyes and recognising a soul in a tiny body—one that you grew, created through love. Yet, love alone...

Within the practice of IFS we become aware of the concepts of ‘no bad parts’; all parts are welcome’; and ‘no parts are ever removed, they just may adjust their roles’. It’s that last statement that has held my attention of late. My wonderful fellow IFS partner in crime and study has recently had a new baby and I have observed as her mother-part emerged. For me I am currently watching my own mother as she prepares to leave this world and through all this, I myself can feel a confused part...