What It Means to Hold Space

— Trusting in the Other’s Strength —

To “hold space” for someone does not mean simply watching from afar.

True holding begins by turning inward—by being present with what’s happening within yourself.

For example—

When you feel the urge to step in, to help,

Notice that impulse arising within you,

And simply allow it to be, sonomama—just as it is.

Feel the reaction in your own heart,

And stay with it, without rushing to fix or change it.

There is a quiet stillness in that, isn’t there?

And once you’ve done what you can,

You might gently say:

“If you ever need support, I’m here.

I truly believe you’ll be okay.”

To hold space is

To notice your own impulses and gently let them be.

And most of all,

To trust in the other person’s strength.

Building relationships through trust, not worry—

That is a quiet, yet unmistakable, form of love.

we are.

you are.

i am.

Words and photo by K E I K O