In today's episode, we have a very special guest, Matthew R. Reynolds. I reached out to Matthew after reading his weekly email where he spoke about envy and jealousy. But the first half of our conversation focuses on his father and reclaiming ancestors.
Matthew opens up about a longing he has carried with him throughout his life - a longing to know his father. As he shares his heartfelt desire to connect with his deceased father and explore the impact of his absence, we dive deep into the themes of internalized racial oppression and the capitalist system that perpetuates it.
Matthew's father passed away from Emphysema and COPD, and to honor him, Matthew takes a moment to say his father's name out loud.
We learn about his great-great-grandfather, who was a slave in Alabama, and how this past has strongly influenced his own father's life and subsequently Matthew's own.
As the conversation unfolds, Amanda and Matthew share their experiences of connecting with their ancestors. Amanda reveals her deep connection with trees as her ancestors, while Matthew reflects on his Irish ancestry and the importance of standing by trees. The belief that we are all connected, made of stardust, forms the foundation of their discussion.
As we journey through Matthew's exploration of his father's life, we also find ourselves transported to the awe-inspiring beauty of the big island of Hawaii where Matthew resides.
But the conversation doesn't end there. Aminata and Matthew discuss dance and theater as a form of healing abuse, racism and intergenerational trauma.
In the second half, Matthew reframes our perceptions of jealousy and envy. He encourages us to question the definition of success imposed upon us by society and to explore our own unique paths. Matthew also offers a powerful acronym for FAIL: "first attempt in learning."
Matthew also emphasizes accountability as a positive in our journey towards authenticity. We all need supportive communities and coaches who can help us navigate our shadows and empower us to stay true to ourselves and achieve our fullest potential.
Matthew also invites us to embrace difficulty and discomfort because they can lead us to profound personal and collective transformation.
So, grab a cup of tea, find a comfortable spot, and join us as we explore the intertwined threads of ancestry, healing, and the complex emotions of envy and jealousy. Welcome to the Mother Tree Network!
Matthew’s Bio
Matthew currently works with groups of people (organizations and "trusted circles") on developing their Equity Lens to develop humanity-led equity, connection, and thought in facilitated safe(r) spaces. He is the author of BIGGEST, FULLEST, BRIGHTEST: Shifting the Consciousness of Humanity.
Social Media Links
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShiftingHumanity
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/matthew-reynolds-consulting-llc
Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewreynoldsconsulting
📚 Timestamped overview
02:59 Connecting with ancestors, finding authentic purpose.
07:14 Friends said come heal; found purpose, educate, heal, create.
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