With so many new members here, I thought it would be valuable to re-share one of the older but most popular pieces that I’ve ever written, an article that still generates comments and emails nearly weekly: The power of being the black sheep in your family. 

It’s an article that explores what the term “Black Sheep” actually means as it relates to family systems, it explores the “Shadow and Light” sides of this archetype, and it talks about what the healing tasks may be for one who identifies as the “Black Sheep” of their family or community system.

Finally, the article concludes with a list of journaling prompts to deepen your self-inquiry and personal growth work. 

Whether you’re a long-time reader and this is a second read of that article for you, or if you’re a first-time reader of it, I hope that it will provide you with a sense of validation, normalization, and a reframe of what may have often felt like a painful or pejorative role for you.

And, I want to share something interesting with you: when choosing a photo to accompany this introduction to my older essay, I typed “Black Sheep” into the search field of my preferred stock photo vendor.

This was the first photo to pop up. 

And you know what the title of this photo is?

“Black Sheep Escapes To The Other Side Of The Fence.”

How’s that for a powerful reframe?

From my side of the fence to yours, I hope this read (or re-read) of my popular essay “The power of being the black sheep in your family.” feels supportive.

If you feel so inclined, please leave me a message in the comments on the original article. 

I’d love to know what this article evoked for you and how you personally see the power of being the “Black Sheep” of your family system.

And until next time, please take such good care of yourself. You’re so worth it.

Warmly, Annie