The Heaven and Hell of Idealization: Finding Our Inner Chorus, with LYNN PRESTON, HfH March 9, 2026

Idealization is a basic emotional nutrient. We all need people we can look up to—those who inspire us, guide us and help steady us in uncertain times. Donna Orange beautifully calls this presence our inner chorus: the voices of those who have encouraged us and helped us become who we are. In this reflection, we will turn toward these inner guides—the people, teachings, and experiences that continue to nourish and support us from the inside. At the same time, idealization has its shadow side. The longing to admire and be inspired can sometimes lead us to place others on a pedestal and lose touch with our own authority and inner compass. Together we will explore how to receive the nourishment of idealizing relationships—the nectar of inspiration—while staying grounded in our own felt sense and capacity for reflection. We will also consider how we can receive idealization from others as a sacred trust — not rejecting it or clinging to it, but honoring . Poem By Naomi Shihab Nye Because the eye has a short shadow or it is hard to see over heads in the crowd? If everyone else seems smarter but you need your own secret? If mystery was never your friend? If one way could satisfy the infinite heart of the heavens? If you liked the king on his golden throne more than the villagers carrying baskets of lemons? If you wanted to be sure his guards would admit you to the party? The boy with the broken pencil scrapes his little knife against the lead turning and turning it as a point emerges from the wood again If he would believe his life is like that he would not follow his father into war