I first experienced this reading while sitting in my spiritually-inspired synagogue in Chicago (Makom Shalom) during the Jewish New Year. As I contemplated the year coming to a close and my desires to rededicate myself to strength, learning, personal and professional growth, I found the humor and wisdom here to remind me of habits, self-kindness, self-forgiveness and choices.
In my work as a coach and trainer, I help people to increase awareness, take responsibility and make different choices. Where do you see yourself in this story? What hole do you need to walk around?
Autobiography in 5 Short Chapters
a poem by Portia Nelson, published in her book
There's a Hole in My Sidewalk: The Romance of Self-Discovery
Chapter I
I walk down the street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk
I fall in.
I am lost ... I am helpless.
It isn't my fault.
It takes forever to find a way out.
Chapter II
I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I pretend I don't see it.
I fall in again.
I can't believe I am in the same place.
But, it isn't my fault.
It still takes a long time to get out.
Chapter III
I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I see it is there.
I still fall in ... it's a habit ... but,
my eyes are open.
I know where I am.
It is my fault.
I get out immediately.
Chapter IV
I walk down the same street.
There is a deep hole in the sidewalk.
I walk around it.
Chapter V
I walk down another street.
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