As summer ends and autumn begins, I can no longer ignore gutters filled to overflowing with pine needles and leaves.  As I begin the cleaning process, it is deceivingly messier than the view from ground level.  What had appeared to be a thin layer of leaves was actually a thick muddy mess that was clogging every downspout.  (Admittedly, I procrastinate.)  Lessons learned on the rooftop:  1. Clean gutters more regularly. 2. Often what lies beneath the surface is where I need to focus my efforts.

I sometimes find this to be true with clients also.  The layers of unhealthy behavior patterns have become entrenched into daily interactions and individuals (and couples) have never taken the time to look below the surface to discover what may be contributing to their being stuck.  Many people (myself included) wait until the gutters in life are completely clogged before they begin the effort of cleaning out the muck.  Those who make a habit of trying to gain insight into their behavior may find it very messy, but more so, quite helpful in becoming unstuck.

Marlayne Whitlock, MS
mwhitlock @GROWcounseling.com