By Leila & Trish Briggs
When we were young, our parents and elders modeled/expressed for us the right way to do things and treat others. The line between what was acceptable behavior and what wasn’t was more clearly defined within the household and it usually matched what was expected outside the household in past generations. The lines are not as clear today. While this can make the world more difficult to navigate, it can also give room for an internal compass of ethics and standards to grow.
Typically, the lessons of the past focused on the physical and no thought was given to the energetic. The consequences of any action were usually only noticed in the physical repercussions. Any energetic consequence did not happen quick enough for one to associate it with the action or behavior. However, that has changed. As our society becomes aware of energy, intuition, and healing; the energetic ripple from a behavior or activity can sometimes be FELT even before the physical consequence is acknowledged.
In a way, whatever behavior is acceptable and unacceptable in the physical applies to the energetic world also. It really is not rocket-science! Once you are aware of how your energy (thoughts, intentions, emotions) affects others, you can begin to act from a perspective of mindful awareness.
*It’s important to note, that intuitive children and highly intuitive adults are often in contact with their spirit and soul in some way. The voice of one’s spirit and soul is often passionate about justice and love. Developing a strong sense of self and internal ethics aligned with the soul and spirit, will allow them to more easily navigate the world while maintaining their sense of soul truth.
Suggested Beginner Ethics (and discussion points for children and families):
Taking from another without permission, (just like in the physical) is unacceptable. Thus, it is not acceptable to take from someone else’s energy without permission.
You wouldn't throw your litter or trash in your neighbor’s yard; the same applies energetically. Do not push your energy, emotions, intentions, or fears onto someone else. You take care of what is yours and let the other person do the same.
Each person is responsible for managing his or her own energy and state of mind. Thus we do not use our abilities and power to manipulate or control others. Nor do we use it to control our experiences or environments.
To manage your own energy, you need to first be aware of your energy and what it is doing when you interact with others. Even if you think the interaction is only in your mind, it is happening energetically.
Once you have a handle on your energy, then you can set reasonable energetic boundaries (just as you already set physical boundaries). This will involve developing your skills of discernment, reflection, with some critical thinking. Discussing and reflecting the ethical standards in which you want to live is a perfect start!