OTHER QUALITIES AND ISSUES

A key for 3s is to cultivate empathy but avoid sympathy; the subtle difference between the two applies to us all, but especially to those working 3, because of their tendency to get drawn in by others’ emotions. When we sympathize with others who call to us from a “dark hole,” we end up jumping in with them and experiencing their distress. When we empathize with them, however, we remain centered in a clear space, and from there, we can throw them a ladder.

As sometimes happens, they may cry, “No, I don’t want a ladder; I want you to jump down here with me!” From our compassionate, empathic space, we can respond, “I can serve better from here. I’ve done what I can, and I respect your decision to either climb out or sit in the darkness a while longer.” Remembering the difference between sympathy and empathy, 3s can more effectively help others while helping themselves.

Due to their sensitive emotional nature, 3s may need to assert themselves and learn to express anger or aggressive energy constructively; otherwise, they may remain inhibited or frustrated in manifesting the full range of their powers. Martial arts, dance, or other focused athletic activities can help open this arena, and 3s generally find great joy in such expansiveness.

In contrast to 8s, who sometimes use sexuality for power, or 1s, who use sex to release pent-up energies, 3s can occasionally find themselves in promiscuous sexual situations where they get emotionally involved and later ask themselves, “What happened?” of “How did I let myself get into that?” Self-doubt can also affect their sexual expression, or they may repress sexual energy out of guilt or feel inadequate and inhibited until they come to appreciate the importance of balanced sexual expression.

Most 3s also benefit from and envoy organizations that give them a chance to speak to a group of people. The Dale Carnegie course in public speaking or other similar courses give 3s opportunities to develop their expressive skills and all-important confidence.

Physically, 3s end toward sensitive stomachs; when under stress, they may experience more butterflies or diarrhea than those with a thicker-skinned emotional disposition.

Although most of us, including 3s, have practical challenges in the financial arena, individuals on this life path have no inherent financial difficulty; mainly, 3s just need confidence. Then they get past self-doubt, abundance flow naturally, almost without effort.

AT THE SUMMIT: POTENTIAL AND DESTINY

Sensitive expression, entailing carefully chosen words spoken from the heart, has the power to more people to tears or laughter – to inspire action that can change the world in ways large or small.

Every great culture has had leaders with the power of expression and the sensitivity to feel when and how to use their words to greatest effect. No warrior or world leader could stand long without the power of expression; the pen may indeed be mightier than the sword. According to the Judeo-Christian Bible, even before Light came the Word (sound or vibration.)

Waiting at the summit of 3 energy is the power of expression combined with the compassion of sensitivity. Near the end of their journey, 3s open to the full emotions of their being; filled with passion and love and using the entire palette of emotional color, they reach out and embrace others within their large emotional field, reminding us of the essence of our humanity, the potential of our spirit, and the longing within each of us to wake up to our feeling dimension, for in so doing, we wake up to our full humanity.

The emotional connection 3s can feel to life and to others generates a rising energy that, once expressed, can uplift everyone around them. These individuals have the potential to revel in emotions the way dolphins swim in the sea. At the highest levels, 3s serve as an open channel of loving energy, moving others to joy and inspiration, becoming a force of light in the world.

ACTION CHECKLIST

The following actions can make a difference in the lives of those working 3 energy:

•Form the practice of asking yourself, “What am I feeling and what do I need right now?” Express your feelings and needs directly.

•Take a course in public speaking or find another opportunity to explore self-expression, such as acting, art, or dance.

•Find a physical activity, such as a martial art, weight lifting or aerobic dance that helps you feel and express your assertive, expansive side.

•The next time your confront self-doubt, face it squarely and move through it.

ACCESSING EXPRESSION AND SENSITIVITY

1. Think of someone you know, or imagine a film, literary, or historical character – a role model who expresses himself or herself clearly, honestly, and powerfully, while staying attuned and sensitive to listeners.

2. Imagine yourself as that person – secure in your abilities, confident and articulate enough to express yourself artfully and with sensitivity, sharing the full range of your feelings and fears, your joys and sorrows. In what specific ways can you put these qualities into practice and bring greater expression into your life?

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