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Awareness, Life Coach, The Journey Michael Barata Awareness, Life Coach, The Journey Michael Barata

Are We?

Are we expected to hold space even when that space feels unsafe? Are we called to listen even when the words—under the banner of “free speech”—ridicule, humiliate, dehumanize, or hate?

I wrestle with these questions, not just as an observer of the world, but as someone who knows I have my own inner work to do. My reactions, my boundaries, my silence or my voice—they all reveal something about me too.

Boundaries are not betrayals. I can recognize the good in someone and still choose not to stand in their presence. I can love people from afar without inviting their harm into my life.

Too often, the “standard” of coexistence is unbalanced—some are expected to endlessly accept, while others feel free to act without regard. I have to ask myself, where have I allowed that imbalance in my own life, and how can I respond differently?

True coexistence doesn’t mean sacrificing safety or self-respect. It means honoring humanity without erasing your own. And that starts within. If I can’t respect and protect myself, how can I honestly honor the humanity of others?

Opinions are not a free pass when it comes to character. What we choose to say—and how we choose to say it—reveals more about who we are than what we claim to believe. Freedom of expression doesn’t absolve us from responsibility; it invites us to consider the impact of our words.

And for me, it’s also an invitation to look inward…am I living in a way where my words and actions truly reflect the character I hope to embody?

I’ve got love to do. ❤️

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Awareness, Life Coach, The Journey Michael Barata Awareness, Life Coach, The Journey Michael Barata

A Small Act, A Big Impact

In a world that often feels divided and overwhelming, compassion is one of the simplest yet most powerful forces for change. It doesn’t take grand gestures to make a difference—sometimes, it’s as small as listening without judgment, offering a kind word, or extending a helping hand.

We all carry unseen burdens, and while we may not always understand what someone else is going through, we can choose to meet them with empathy rather than indifference. Compassion isn’t about fixing someone’s pain; it’s about acknowledging it, holding space for it, and reminding each other that we’re not alone.

When we lead with kindness—at work, at home, and in our communities—we create ripples that go far beyond what we can see. A moment of understanding can turn someone’s day around. A show of support can restore hope. And a culture of compassion can shift entire systems toward healing and progress.

The world doesn’t need more perfection; it needs more people willing to see, hear, and uplift one another. Today, let’s choose compassion—because even the smallest act of kindness has the power to change a life.

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Awareness, The Journey Michael Barata Awareness, The Journey Michael Barata

Empathy

Let’s stimulate empathy. Let’s grow empathy. Let’s create opportunities for empathy. Let’s reward empathy. Let’s have the biggest empathy.

This may seem like a political statement, but it’s not. It’s from my heart. It’s from my soul.

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Awareness, The Journey Michael Barata Awareness, The Journey Michael Barata

A Love Explosion

Of all the things we are told to release, love must be freed. Not only is it a positive energy for all to experience, but as you release it, you create space for more of it. Love energy is powerful and gentle. Uplifting and grounding.

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