John Delony’s mission is clear: he wants to help people find their way through difficult times and come out on the other side stronger than ever. Over his career as a counselor, he has worked with a variety of individuals facing hardships, from distressed students to grieving parents, and has seen firsthand the resilience and growth that can occur after experiencing trauma.
Delony believes in the power of hope, even in the darkest moments. He has counseled parents who have lost their children in tragic circumstances and witnessed their strength and courage as they later went on to help others dealing with similar losses. Delony’s approach is rooted in the belief that people can overcome adversity and grow from their experiences – a concept known as post-traumatic growth.
In contrast to the widely accepted viewpoint that everyone is increasingly broken, Delony views anxiety as a normal response that alerts us to problems in our lives. Our bodies have innate safety mechanisms that help us recognize when we are not safe or when we are lonely. This includes issues such as a troubled marriage, strained relationship with children, or financial difficulties.
The key to moving from these stressors towards a more peaceful life lies in cultivating connections with others, developing autonomy (such as being debt-free), practicing mindfulness, maintaining good health, and believing in something greater than ourselves. While this may seem like common sense, it is not always easy to follow in an age of self-actualization where people often chase the best feeling possible.
Delony’s own experiences have shaped his views on personal growth and resilience. He fondly remembers his grandparents, who were married for 73 years and raised four children in a small house during the Great Depression. Despite their challenges, they managed to maintain a peaceful home environment filled with love and faith.
One example of Delony’s personal growth is recognizing how his own feelings can affect those around him, such as when he noticed that his young daughter would not hug him. After seeking counsel from his wife, he realized the importance of addressing his own emotional state in order to create a healthier environment for his family.
Delony emphasizes the need for parents and mentors to serve as models for their children, encouraging them to engage in inner work and seek counseling when needed. By doing so, they can cultivate a strong sense of wisdom and resilience within themselves and their families.
In today’s world, where anxiety levels are high and divisive discourse seems to dominate social media, Delony believes that the key to a better future lies in rediscovering our ability to sit down with people and engage in meaningful conversations, regardless of our differences. This approach can help us create stronger communities and more connected families – starting at home and moving outward to improve our neighborhoods and beyond.
