In my counseling class, I teach a technique called mirroring. It is a form of nonverbal communication with a client. The counselor uses the same gestures as the client. The purpose is to make the client feel understood. Mirroring doesn’t solve the client's issue, but it helps the client-counselor relationship. The counselor should use this technique subtly. If not, the client becomes conscious, and it makes the communication phony.

Mirroring happens in real life too. Couples who have more similarities than differences do it unconsciously. I took this picture during a wedding at Asia-Pacific International University. The university president and his better half, Dr. Loren and Shelley Agrey, were among the guests. Aside from the standard values they share, they mirrored each other in their gestures. It is not only exciting but also beautiful, even more so from a photographer’s point of view. You don’t have to tell them to pose for a mirror image. Wait for their synchronized pose, and you have it.

Reflecting others happens in different dimensions of life. How much of your opinion is your own? How about your words, feelings, decisions or styles? We imitate others because we are social beings. It is normal. We don’t have the choice not to mirror at all. However, we can indirectly control the process. We are likely to reflect the person whom we see as a role model or the characters we admire in literature or movies. Whom are you mirroring in your life? Who is your hero or heroine? Choose carefully what you watch and what you read. As the good book says, “BY BEHOLDING, WE BECOME CHANGED” (2 Corinthians 3:18).

Reflection

Who are the most influential people in your life? How is their character reflected in your strength or weakness?

Prayer Journal

How would you like God to help you reflect the character of Christ? Ask God to help you work on your weaknesses to represent him as a good and faithful servant.