Whether in a spiritual sense or in everyday life, you may have dealt with an antagonist or two. Dr. Kenneth Haugk, a clinic psychologist, defines pathological antagonists as “individuals who, on the basis of non-substantive evidence, go out of their way to make insatiable demands, usually attacking the person or performance of others. These attacks are selfish in nature, tearing down rather than building up, and are frequently directed against those in a leadership capacity.” Anyone who has given support to someone, especially from a spiritual standpoint has dealt with this. It can be draining. It can be pressuring. But don’t give up! Here’s why: After a very transforming and reflective conversation with my spiritual sister, I realized that I needed to step outside myself yet again and not completely abandon someone because they are challenging my beliefs. Instead, talk to them, not at them. Only then can they reflect on what I’m trying to relay. Only then can we make a spiritual connection. Then there is trust. They believe in my words as truth and I believe in their growth through reflection. And isn’t that beautiful? Yet and still, we are in a human body no matter how much light we hold or share. We still may slip up and react negatively to skepticism. You may still take it personal if an antagonist says they don’t believe you or that you’re a fraud. But keep going. Keep helping. Keep shining. Reflect on your darkest days so that you can be empathic to those who don’t know how else to react to truth and wisdom. ”We are playwrights scripting our personal reality show and enigmatic fantasy world. Without a questing protagonist and a strong antagonist, the plot is tepid. All heroic conduct requires a journey filled with hardship, adventure, and a personal nemesis to conquer.” - Kilroy J. Oldster, Dead Toad Scrolls Blessed Be, Erica