Affirmation and the Gift of Self

We continue our talk on “emotional affairs” by delving into the topic of “affirmation.” Affirmation is a great defense against emotional affairs. As we build a stronger marriage, we need to affirm ourselves and our partner. What is affirmation? It is not simply acknowledging the goodness in others or paying compliments to the one we love. It is much deeper and goes to the human soul.
Today’s guest is Christina Hayden. Christina, sometimes called Cricket, is a homeschooling mother of 12 children, currently earning certification from the Theology of the Body Institute. Her life work is integrating the Theology of the Body with the Psychology of Affirmation, and the Philosophy of Ontology, the Philosophy of Being.
Christina’s insights and knowledge cover a vast spectrum and she holds dear to her heart the relevance of John Paul II’s teachings as well as psychiatrist Dr. Conrad Baars, Dr. Anna Terruwe and Mary Joyce.
Affirmation is important because without sincere / authentic/mature affirmation, it is not likely that we will be happy and whole. Prosperous relationships depend on learning to live the affirmed life. How is each of us affirmed and how can we affirm others so that they can know their goodness and worth? If we are not affirmed, we are operating within the context of deprivation. Christina will discuss the challenges of deprivation and offer some ideas on what we can do on our journey to becoming whole.